Best Port for Fishing in Alaska

Alaska is an angler's paradise. Whether you want the thrill of reeling in a big halibut or the tranquility of flyfishing on a peaceful river, Alaska provides ample opportunities for fishing for visitors of all ages and experiences. This guide will help you select the best port for a fishing excursion during your Alaska cruise.

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Charter Fishing - Salmon, Halibut and More!​

For many visitors, Halibut & Salmon are top choices for ocean fishing. For those seeking a true ‘man vs nature’ experience, we recommend halibut fishing. Halibut are a thrilling catch due to their size and strength, giving anglers an exciting experience. Salmon are also a popular choice for charter fishing; you'll target some of the 5 varieties of salmon that populate Alaska's waters.

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These excursions last between 4 and 6 hours and can be purchased as a private charter or paid per person on a public tour. Duration is considered in consideration of a cruiser’s limited time in port, so our guides work hard to make the most out of the limited time. Boats carry a maximum of 6 guests, so whether you choose the private or public option, it will still be a small-group experience with expert guides.

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Halibut Fishing is available in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point. Salmon Fishing can be enjoyed in Juneau and Ketchikan. Can’t decide? Try our Juneau Halibut and Salmon Fishing Combo or  Ketchikan Best of Alaska Fishing Tour​

You may elect to have your catch processed and shipped home. The cost for this service begins at 0 and increases based on the amount of fish you have processed. This is arranged with your guide at the conclusion of your fishing trip.

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2026 Halibut Regulations:

As of January 26th, the 2026 halibut sport-fishing regulations have not yet been announced. If your goal is to ship home halibut that you catch, the rules may impact your plans, so be flexible as to which town or date you choose for halibut fishing. In the past, regulations included a bag limit and a one-day-per-week prohibition on harvesting halibut. We expect similar regulations for 2026.

When booking your fishing charter through Alaska Shore Excursions, you have the added benefit of being able to change the date/port of your halibut fishing excursion with relative ease, should the 2026 regulations impact your plans. Contact our customer service team with detailed questions at [email protected] or via the chat feature on this webpage.

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Fly Fishing and Stream Fishing

Fly Fishing is a popular option in Ketchikan and Icy Strait. While halibut and salmon fishing provide the thrill of reeling in a few big fish, you’re likely to catch more fish when fly fishing. On a fly fishing excursion, you’ll head into the forest to fish along the banks of a river populated with salmon, trout, and dollyvarden. Perfect for novices and experienced fly fishermen, these small-group tours offer a personalized experience, a chance to get away from the crowds, and time in nature.

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No experience with fly fishing-no problem! For those who’d like to learn to fly fish, your expert guide will teach you how to get started and check in with you throughout the day, offering guidance and encouragement. Traditional spinner reels are also available.  ​All fly fishing and stream fishing is catch and release, and are typically 4 to 6-hour trips. Our best fly fishing tours are Ketchikan Guided Fly Fishing Tour, Ketchikan Private Fly Out Fishing Tour and Icy Strait Fresh Water Stream Fishing.​

FAQ: Best Port for Fishing​

What port is best for fishing?

Ketchikan, “the Salmon Capital of the World,” provides the most options for both charter fishing and fly fishing. We offer excellent fishing excursions in Juneau and Icy Strait as well.

Can I ship home the fish that I catch?

For halibut and salmon fishing tours, you may elect to have your catch processed and shipped home. The cost for this service begins at 0 and increases based on the number of fish you have processed. This is arranged with your guide at the conclusion of your fishing trip.

Do you offer fishing tours that can accommodate a wheelchair or walker?

Yes! New for 2026 we offer the Ketchikan Private Salmon Fishing Charter with Adaptive Gear. The Ketchikan Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining Tour is an option for some wheelchair users. Please review the ADA Accessibility of the Tour in the 'Things to Know' section of the tour page.