Charter Fishing in Alaska

Alaska is known as one of the most bountiful areas for salmon, and is ideal for chartered fishing trips. This is because of extreme tides along the West Coast and the gush of ocean currents that create an environment ideal for the breeding of thousands of baitfish. It is also known as one of the best places to go if one wants to fish for giant King Salmon, the largest species of salmon fish. Fishing for giant King Salmon can be a year round activity, especially in Seward.

If you're looking for a good Alaska charter fishing company, we have three suggestions, all of which have won local awards.

1. Fisherman's Choice Charters

Fisherman's Choice Charters is located a short drive north of Anchorage on the Parks Highway enroute to Denali National Park. This Alaska charter fishing company has been featured on ESPN2, and was voted Mat-Su Valley's Best Salmon and Trout Fishing Charter in the years 200, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Mat-Su Valley's largest newspaper, the Frontiersman, in their annual Reader's Choice Awards. You can call them at 800-989-8707 or email them at fishermanschoice@alaska.com.

2. Rainbow River Expeditions

Also located in the Mat-Su Valley, a few miles north of Wasilla, and a 90-minute drive north of Anchorage. Alaska in the Matanuska Susitna (MatSu) Valley. Rainbow River Expeditions was voted one of the Best Alaska Fishing Guides for 2006 and 2007 by Frontiersman newspaper, as well as being featured on ESPN's "Backroads with Ron & Raven" and the Outdoor Channel's "Call of the Wild." Call them toll free at 1-866-373-2975, or email them at akrainbw@mtaonline.net.

3. Daniel's Personalized Guide Service

Located in Homer, Alaska, Daniel's Personalized Guide Service was voted "Best Fishing Guide" by Alaska Magazine. You can hire Daniel for halibut, king salmon, sliver salmon, ling cod and winter king salmon fishing trips. Call 1-800-230-3843 or
info@homerfishing.com for more information.
 

Fishing Seasons in Alaska are typically:

May 1 - Sept 30 for Halibut
May 1 - July 20 for Saltwater Kings
May 1 - July 31 for Kenai River Kings
June 10 - August 15 for Sockeye Salmon
June 15 - Oct 31 for Rainbow Trout
August 15 - Sept 30 for Silver Salmon

Alaska Fishing Licenses for Non-residents

1 day license for $20
3 day license for $35
7 day license for $55
14 day license for $80
annual license for $145.

Non-resident King Salmon tag fees

1 day for $10
3 days for $20
7 days for $30
14 days for $50
annual fee of $100.

You can get a fishing license online at the Alaska Department of Fish and Games website: www.admin.adfg.state.ak.us/license

The most sought-after species of salmon are the following:

The King Salmon (Chinook) are the largest of all these species. Its weight averages between 20-40 pounds, the heaviest recorded of which is 112 pounds, and can be as long as 3-4". It has a blue-green back that is lightly spotted.

The average life span of a Chinook Salmon is about five to seven years. Its flesh can range in color from ivory white to a deep red. Common names for this specie of salmon include tyee, springs, mouth/kings quinnat and tule.

Silver Salmon (Coho) is slightly smaller with an average weight of 8-12 pounds. These specie prefer small streams in which to spawn between the months of July to November.

Sockeye Salmon, on the other hand, are the most sought-after of its entire species because its flesh has a color of deep red and it has a firm rich flavor.

In preparing for an Alaska charter fishing trip, be sure to be dressed in layers of warm clothing. Over your clothing it is advisable to wear waterproof overalls, boots and bibs to ensure you stay dry.

Synonyms:  alaskan, alska, alaskas, alask, alsaka, alaksa, alaskin, alaska's and alaskian are typos for "Alaska."  Fising and fishin are  typos for "fishing."