If you’re planning a fishing trip to Southeast Alaska in 2025, it’s important to stay updated on the latest fishing regulations for non-residents. These regulations help protect the area’s thriving marine ecosystems and ensure sustainable fishing for future generations. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential fishing regulations for non-residents, covering key species like salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish.
King Salmon (Chinook) Regulations: What You Can Catch in 2025
King salmon are one of the most sought-after fish in Southeast Alaska, and regulations around them can vary depending on the time of year.
- Daily Limit: 1 king salmon per person, 28 inches or greater in length.
- Annual Limits: Varies by season. Specific limits are in place for June, July, and August, so make sure to check the latest updates.
- Season: King salmon fishing is allowed during specific months, and early-season limits may differ.
Stay informed by checking the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website before you head out to fish for king salmon!
Coho Salmon (Silver Salmon) Regulations for 2025
Coho salmon are plentiful in Southeast Alaska, especially Ketchikan, and provide great opportunities for anglers throughout the summer.
- Daily Limit: 6 coho salmon per person.
- Annual Limit: None.
- Season: Coho fishing typically runs from late June through mid-September.
Coho salmon are abundant during the summer months, making this a perfect target species for non-residents. Always check seasonal variations and updates to ensure you’re fishing within legal limits.
Halibut Regulations: Size Limits and Catch Limits
Halibut are a favorite for anglers in Southeast Alaska, known for their size and taste. However, size limits and daily catch regulations are in place to preserve their population.
- Daily Limit: 1 halibut per person, either under 37 inches or over 80 inches in length.
- Annual Limit: None.
- Charter Vessel Restrictions: Different rules may apply when fishing on charter vessels, including closed days (like Tuesdays) and specific size limits.
- Tuesdays will be closed for retention but can continue to catch and release.
- All combo & halibut fishing charter trip start times may have restrictions on halibut retention based on permit restrictions enacted by the federal fisheries board.
- Your captain will advise you on the day of your trip.
Make sure you’re familiar with these limits to ensure your fishing experience goes smoothly!
Lingcod Regulations: Catch and Size Limits
Lingcod are a unique and exciting species to catch in Southeast Alaska. With strict regulations, it’s crucial to understand size limits and seasonal closures.
- Daily Limit: 1 lingcod per person.
- Size Limits: Between 30-35 inches or over 55 inches.
- Season: May 16 – June 14, and August 1 – November 30, 2025.
By following these regulations, you’ll help maintain a sustainable lingcod population in the region.
Rockfish Regulations: Pelagic and Non-Pelagic Species
Rockfish are commonly found in Southeast Alaska’s waters. Non-resident anglers should be aware of the daily limits for both pelagic and non-pelagic rockfish.
- Pelagic Rockfish: Daily limit of 3 per person (6 in total possession), no size limit.
- Non-Pelagic Rockfish (e.g., Yelloweye): 1 per person per day, with an annual limit of 1.
- Season: Non-pelagic rockfish retention is open from July 1 to August 31.
For rockfish, it’s important to follow size restrictions, especially for non-pelagic species, to protect these valuable populations.
Pacific Cod Regulations for 2025
Pacific cod are abundant in Southeast Alaska and can be fished with fewer restrictions compared to other species.
- Daily Limit: No limit.
- Annual Limit: None.
Pacific cod is a great option for non-resident anglers looking for a plentiful catch in Southeast Alaska.
Shellfish Regulations: Dungeness Crab and More
Southeast Alaska’s shellfish fisheries also have regulations to protect their populations, with specific daily and size limits for Dungeness crabs and other shellfish.
- Daily Limit: Varies; specific size limits apply.
- Season: Crab fishing is generally open during the warmer months, but always check local regulations before heading out.
These shellfish regulations help ensure sustainable harvesting and preserve the region’s ecosystem.
Why It’s Important to Follow Fishing Regulations in Southeast Alaska
Adhering to fishing regulations helps preserve the rich marine ecosystems of Southeast Alaska. These rules are put in place to protect vital fish and wildlife populations, ensuring that future generations of anglers can enjoy the same breathtaking experiences. Whether you’re fishing for king salmon, coho, or halibut, following these regulations is not only required by law but also an essential part of being an eco-conscious angler.
Stay Updated: Always Check the Latest Regulations
Fishing regulations are subject to change, so always double-check the most current rules before heading out to Southeast Alaska. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fishing limits, seasons, and regulations, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s official website.
Plan Your 2025 Southeast Alaska Fishing Adventure
Ready to fish in Southeast Alaska? Stay informed about the latest regulations, and book your adventure today. Southeast Alaska offers one of the most rewarding and scenic fishing experiences in the world. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time visitor, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to reel in some of the region’s most prized fish species.
Click here or call us at (907) 617-4717.
TOP RATED KETCHIKAN FISHING CHARTERS WE OFFER:
SALMON & HALIBUT COMBO CHARTER
Whether it's trolling for Salmon, bottom fishing for Halibut, or jigging for Rockfish and Lingcod, we do it all so you can experience the best of Ketchikan. This charter option is also offered for full day & multiple day in town clients.
HALIBUT CHARTER
Catch Pacific Halibut known for their size & fight, Cod, Rockfish and Sharks deep jigging in the rich Southeast Alaskan waters. This bottom fishing focused adventure provides your group with memories of a lifetime and an unforgettable day on the water with some bucket-list catches!
