Introduction: More Than Just Salmon & Halibut Fishing in Ketchikan
Most people booking Ketchikan fishing charters expect to catch salmon or halibut — and those are always exciting. But the rich waters of Southeast Alaska are full of unexpected species you probably never imagined reeling in.
From sharks and skates to crabs and even octopus, these waters are teeming with surprises.
Here are 7 species that might just end up on your line:
1. Pacific Cod
Bottom-feeding and mild in flavor, Pacific cod are an underrated catch — great fighters and even better on a plate.
Why it’s surprising:
Most guests expect salmon. Cod? It’s a tasty bonus you didn’t know you needed.
Fun fact:
Pacific cod are fast-growing and can reach up to 6 feet long. They’re also the fish behind the classic fish-and-chips meal — it’s not always Atlantic cod!
2. Yelloweye Rockfish
With their neon-orange color and golden eyes, these fish are visual showstoppers. They’re protected due to their long lifespans, so they’re usually released — but catching one is unforgettable.
Fun fact:
Yelloweye rockfish can live over 120 years! Their age is often determined by counting the rings on their ear bones (otoliths) — like a tree.
Pro tip:
Because they live deep (often over 300 feet), our experienced captains use special gear and barotrauma tools to ensure safe release.
3. Ghost Shark (Chimaera)
Rarely seen and otherworldly in appearance, ghost sharks — also known as chimaeras — sometimes turn up in deepwater catches near Ketchikan. With large, glassy eyes and wing-like fins, they look like something out of a sci-fi movie.
Fun fact:
Ghost sharks aren’t actually sharks — they’re distant relatives, part of a separate group of cartilaginous fish that split from sharks over 400 million years ago. They’ve barely changed since the time of the dinosaurs.
Strangest catch:
They have a long, whip-like tail and often a protruding snout or “club” on their head. Ghost sharks also have venomous spines near their dorsal fins — one more reason we handle them with extra care and always release them safely.
Why it’s surprising:
Most guests have never even heard of a chimaera, let alone expected to see one. But deepwater trips near Ketchikan offer the rare chance to spot one of these deep-sea legends.
4. Giant Pacific Octopus
Yes, octopus — sometimes hooked when they grab bait off the ocean floor. These intelligent creatures are always released unharmed.
Fun fact:
The Giant Pacific Octopus is the largest species of octopus in the world. The largest ever recorded weighed over 600 pounds — but most are under 100. They have three hearts and blue blood. Seriously.
Smartest catch:
They can open jars, unscrew lids, and even recognize individual humans. One more reason we always treat them with care and respect.
5. Big Skate
With wingspans over 5 feet, these stingray cousins are often caught while halibut fishing in Ketchikan. They’re strong, strange-looking, and fun to battle.
Fun fact:
Big skates lay egg cases often called “mermaid’s purses.” These leathery pouches are sometimes found washed up on beaches and are a favorite find for beachcombers.
Did you know?
Despite their intimidating size, they’re gentle bottom-dwellers that glide like flying carpets across the ocean floor.
6. Lingcod
Mean, toothy, and sometimes electric blue inside, lingcod are powerful predators and make for amazing photos (and meals).
Fun fact:
About 20% of lingcod have bright blue-green flesh — a natural and totally safe pigment that disappears when cooked. It’s a bucket-list fish for serious anglers and foodies alike.
Bonus:
Their wide, gaping mouths are filled with sharp teeth and attitude — they’re fierce fighters and one of the most satisfying catches around.
7. Dungeness Crabs
On combo Ketchikan fishing charters, we drop crab pots on the way out upon request and haul them back in after fishing. Dungeness crabs are sweet, meaty, and legal to keep in season.
Fun fact:
They’re named after the port of Dungeness, Washington, and they’re considered one of the most sustainable and delicious crab species in North America.
Tasty trivia:
They must be male, over a certain size, and in season to be legally kept — but we help you handle all of that.
Species Scorecard: What You Might Catch
| SPECIES | COMMON? | SEASON | DIFFICULTY | KEEPABLE? | EDIVILITY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Cod | Yes | May–September | Easy | Yes | Good |
| Yelloweye Rockfish | Regulated | Year-round | Moderate | No (catch & release) | Excellent |
| Spiny Dogfish (Shark) | Yes | May–September | Moderate | Occasionally | Poor |
| Giant Pacific Octopus | Rare | Year-round | Hard | No (always released) | Excellent (but protected) |
| Big Skate | Occasional | May–September | Moderate | Yes (limited retention) | Average |
| Dungeness Crab | Seasonal | Spring–Fall | Easy | Yes (in season & male only) | Excellent |
| Lingcod | Yes | June–August | Tough Fight | Yes | Excellent |
What Fish Can You Keep & Ship Home From Ketchikan?
Most fish and crab caught on our Ketchikan fishing charters — including salmon, halibut, cod, and Dungeness crab — can be professionally cleaned, vacuum-sealed, frozen, and shipped directly to your home.
Keep in mind that regulations vary by species, season, and catch limits. We’ll help you understand what’s legal to retain during your trip, and we always stay up to date with the latest Alaska fishing regulations so you don’t have to.
You can also check out our 2025 Southeast Alaska Fishing Regulations: What Non-Residents Need to Know article.
Whether you’re shipping home a box of fresh halibut or releasing a yelloweye rockfish back into the water, our Ketchikan fishing captains will make sure your experience is legal, ethical, and memorable.
Ketchikan Fishing Charters - Book Today!
Ketchikan fishing charters are more than just an excursion — they are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Alaska in a way most cruise guests never do.
Whether you’re excited to catch a salmon, curious about what else might bite, or ready to see how our crew makes the most of your time in port, we’re here to help.
Meet the crew: Learn more on our About the Captains page.
Get your questions answered: Visit our FAQ page.
Need help planning? Contact us — we’re happy to help.
Ready to go? Book your Ketchikan fishing charter now!
