If you’re wondering about the best excursion in Ketchikan in May, a fishing charter focused on halibut, rockfish, and lingcod should be at the top of your list. While Ketchikan is known for its salmon runs, May is an especially great time to target the prized bottom-dwellers of the Alaskan waters: halibut, rockfish, and lingcod. These species offer a unique and thrilling fishing experience, perfect for anglers seeking adventure during their Alaskan cruise. Here’s why May is the ideal time to book your fishing charter in Ketchikan for these incredible species.
Why Fishing is the Best Excursion IN KETCHIKAN for Cruise Passengers DURING THE MONTH OF MAY:
1. Prime Time for Halibut Fishing in May
Halibut fishing in Ketchikan truly comes alive in May. This time of year offers calm waters and active halibut that are feeding heavily before spawning. As the waters warm up, halibut come closer to the shore, making them more accessible and easier to target.
May is considered one of the best months to catch halibut in the Ketchikan area, with opportunities for anglers to reel in large, trophy-sized fish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, halibut fishing offers an exciting challenge and the chance to bring home a memorable catch from your Alaskan adventure.
2. Lingcod Fishing – A Thrilling Challenge
Lingcod are one of the most popular species to catch in Ketchikan, and May is the perfect time to target them. These fierce fighters are known for their strength and the challenge they provide, making the experience incredibly rewarding for anyone looking for an exciting day on the water.
Lingcod fishing peaks in May, and with their aggressive feeding habits, anglers have a great chance of hooking one of these incredible fish. Lingcod are found in rocky structures, so you’ll be fishing in some of the most visually stunning parts of Ketchikan’s waters, surrounded by dramatic underwater landscapes and rich marine life.
3. Rockfish Fishing – Abundant and Diverse
Ketchikan’s waters are also home to an abundance of rockfish, which can be found in various species and colors. May is an excellent time for rockfish fishing, as they are more active during this period.
Whether you’re targeting Black Rockfish, or other varieties, Ketchikan offers an exceptional rockfish fishing experience. The calm seas of May make it easier to fish in deeper waters where rockfish are abundant, providing anglers with a chance to reel in multiple species during their trip.
4. Mild Weather and Calm Waters
Fishing in Ketchikan during May also comes with the advantage of mild weather and calmer seas, making it the perfect time to head out onto the water. The comfortable temperatures and clear skies enhance your overall experience, offering the perfect conditions for both anglers and nature lovers. You can spend a full day fishing without the harsh conditions found in other seasons, making it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
Additionally, the calm waters make it easier to navigate and fish, so you can focus on landing the big one without worrying about choppy waves or unpredictable weather.
5. Fewer Crowds and More Personalized Service
If you’re looking for a peaceful and personalized fishing experience, May is the perfect month. With fewer tourists in Ketchikan compared to the summer months, you’ll enjoy a more intimate fishing experience. This allows you to have one-on-one time with your local fishing guide, who will share tips and tricks, teach you about the best fishing spots, and ensure that you have a successful day on the water.
Without the summer crowds, your fishing trip will feel more exclusive, with less competition for the best spots. This provides a more relaxed and productive fishing experience.
6. Wildlife Encounters Galore
Fishing in Ketchikan in May also means you’ll likely spot some incredible wildlife while you’re out on the water. Ketchikan is known for its rich marine life, and during your fishing excursion, you may encounter sea otters, harbor seals, humpback whales, and bald eagles. The wildlife sightings are a perfect complement to your fishing adventure, making the experience all the more special.
7. Affordable Rates and Great Value
Since May falls outside of the busy summer season, Ketchikan’s fishing charters are often more affordable than during peak months. If you’re looking for great value while still experiencing high-quality fishing, booking in May is an ideal choice. You’ll enjoy competitive rates for an extraordinary fishing trip, without the summer crowds or high-season prices.
8. A Unique Alaskan Experience
Fishing for halibut, rockfish, and lingcod is a quintessential Alaskan experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s unique marine ecosystem. Your fishing charter will not only give you the chance to catch incredible fish, but it will also teach you about sustainable fishing practices and local traditions that have shaped Ketchikan’s history.
For anyone looking to engage with Ketchikan’s culture and natural beauty, a fishing excursion offers the perfect opportunity to do so.
Book Your Ketchikan Fishing Charter Today!
If you’re planning to visit Ketchikan during your Alaskan cruise, booking a fishing charter in May is the best way to experience the area’s incredible marine life. Halibut, rockfish, and lingcod offer a thrilling and rewarding fishing experience that you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking to land a trophy fish or just enjoy a peaceful day on the water, May provides the ideal conditions to make the most of your Ketchikan adventure.
Don’t wait—book your fishing charter today and get ready to catch some of the most sought-after fish in Alaska!
Click here or call us at (907) 617-4717.
