If you’re visiting Southeast Alaska on a cruise, chances are you’ve heard that fishing in Ketchikan is a must-do. But what many guests don’t realize is just how different—and unforgettable—it is until they experience it for themselves.
In fact, our most recent 5-Star Google Review from Stephanie said: “Everyone in our group agreed this was hands down our favorite excursion our entire trip!”
At Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters, we hear that a lot. We’ve helped thousands of cruise guests turn a few spare hours into once-in-a-lifetime memories. From fast access to salmon-rich waters to the deep cultural roots of fishing here, Ketchikan offers something truly special.
Check out Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charter’s latest 5-star reviews here.
Here are 8 reasons why fishing in Ketchikan is unlike anywhere else in Alaska—and why it might just be the highlight of your trip, too.
1. You’re Minutes from the Best Fishing Grounds in Alaska
Ketchikan is unique because you don’t need to travel far to hit the fish. Some of the richest waters in Alaska are just 15 to 30 minutes from our docks—perfect for cruise passengers with limited time.
That means more time fishing, less time cruising out. Your lines are in the water faster than anywhere else in the state.
2. Our Trips Are Designed for Cruise Guest Schedules
Unlike remote Alaskan lodges that require floatplanes or overnight stays, we specialize in 4 to 8-hour salmon & halibut fishing charters trips that sync perfectly with your ship’s port schedule. Whether you dock in the morning or afternoon, we’ll tailor your trip—and guarantee return before all-aboard.
We make it easy: clear pickup instructions, return guarantees, and full gear included.
3. You Can Catch 5 Salmon Species, Halibut, Rockfish & More
Few destinations can say this: you can catch King (Chinook), Coho (Silver), Sockeye, Chum, and Pink Salmon all from the same location. The salmon migration peaks from June through September, and each month brings a different opportunity. Check out our Ketchikan Salmon Fishing Charters here.
Ketchikan isn’t just about salmon. We also fish for trophy halibut, lingcod, and a variety of rockfish species—all without heading miles offshore.
Did You Know? Pacific Halibut in these waters can weigh over 100 pounds. They’re among the strongest fighters in Alaska’s ocean—and our expert crew is trained to help you safely land them. Check out our Ketchikan Halibut Fishing Charters here.
4. The Inside Passage Means Smooth, Comfortable Trips
Ketchikan sits in the Inside Passage, meaning sheltered, calm seas—a huge perk for those worried about motion sickness or rough waters. The experience is enjoyable, stable, and scenic from start to finish.
Never fished before? No problem. We provide the gear, guidance, and good vibes. Our boats are brand-new and family-freindly—making this an awesome outing for multi-generational cruise groups.
5. Wildlife Sightseeing That Feel Like a Nature Documentary
While you’re fishing, you might spot bald eagles swooping down for herring, humpback whales surfacing in the distance, or even black bears foraging onshore. This isn’t just a fishing trip—it’s a fully immersive Alaska experience.
You don’t need to bushwhack to get deep into the wild. Ketchikan is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in North America. From the misty mountains to the lush shoreline, the views here are jaw-dropping.
6. Fishing Is a Way of Life Here—Not Just a Tourist Activity
Fishing isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. Ketchikan’s roots go back over a century, when it served as a booming salmon cannery hub. Even today, active canneries line the waterfront, and many local families rely on fishing as part of their livelihood and identity.
Educational Insight: Ketchikan was once home to over 10 canneries. You can still see their weathered pilings beneath modern docks, standing as reminders of the town’s fish-first history.
Unlike Alaska’s interior, where moose and caribou hunting are common, Revillagigedo Island has no native elk or caribou populations. While there are Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goats, large game is rare. That’s why most locals rely on seafood—especially salmon and halibut—as a year-round protein source.
Families often spend summer filling their freezers with fresh catch to sustain them all winter long—and when you fish with us, you’re stepping into a tradition that’s still alive today.
7. You’ll Be Fishing with the #1-Rated Charter on the Island
We’re proud to be the #1-rated fishing charter in Ketchikan—and for good reason. Our captains are Coast Guard-licensed, local, and love what they do. We don’t just guide fishing trips—we create experiences that connect guests to the real Alaska.
Whether it’s helping a first-timer land their first salmon or sharing a local legend about the waters, we care deeply about each guest’s experience.
Learn more about our Ketchikan Fishing Guides here.
8. We Make It Easy to Ship Your Fish Home From Ketchikan
One of the most common questions we get is: “What do I do with my fish if I catch something?” The good news?
We’ve got you covered.
We partner with a trusted local processor to clean, vacuum seal, flash freeze, and ship your catch directly to your home—all handled locally here in Ketchikan. Whether you’re heading back to Florida, California, or Texas, your fish arrives safe, cold, and ready for the grill.
Learn more about how to ship your fish home from Ketchikan here.
Ready to experience the best fishing charter in Alaska & make your cruise stop unforgettable?
Don’t just see Alaska. Experience it.
Cast a line. Reel in something wild. And go home with a story you’ll be telling for years.
Book your fishing charter with Ketchikan’s Finest today.
We’ll pick you up, get you on the water fast, and make sure you’re back with time to spare—and even dinner for the months to come!
