Information – Ketchikan Chrome

Times of the year to fish

Chartered Anglers

Fishing in Alaska you never know what you might catch. That can be one of the aspects that makes it so exciting.

May

Spring in Ketchikan the King salmon are making their run. These fish are big and bright and pull hard. Be prepared for your arms to burn while playing out these incredible fish. Lingcod, Halibut, Rockfish, and Squid can also be targeted during this time. The pristine and rich waters of Southeast Alaska provide great opportunities to see wildlife on the water. In the Spring hump back whales bubble feed on herring. Migrating from their breeding grounds off the coast of Mexico and Hawaii to their feeding grounds in Alaska. Another favorite sight is the bald eagle. Eagle’s are close by as they are eager for fresh herring and salmon to feed on and supply to their growing eaglets. Sea lions and orca’s are not so welcome when it comes to sharing fishing grounds. However they can be see this time of year and will be looking for any opportunities to snag your catch.

June

The first two weeks of June can be peak season for king salmon. Towards the end of June pink salmon and summer silvers are showing up. Halibut, Lingcod, and Rockfish are available and provide opportunity for some variety as well as delicious table fare. This time of year the pinks are jumping on top of the water, whales continue to feed on the prolific balls of bait, and eagles can be seen diving talons open to swoop up their next meal. The sea lions are hanging out at the hot spots, if you don’t see them while fishing you will most likely see them back at the docks savoring the fresh fish carcasses being tossed off the dock.

July

July provides the best opportunity for the grand slam! Catch all five salmon species Chum, Sockeye, King, Pink, and Silver. In July, Pink salmon are starting their run. Smaller in size but good in numbers pinks can make for a day full of action. Bright summer silvers have arrived usually stealing the show when it comes to fight and table fare. Pinks and Silvers are both great smoked or fresh. Halibut, Lingcod, and Rockfish are available if you are wanting to see what the rocky pinnacles have to offer. Kelp Greenling and Cabezon are sometimes caught this time of year as well. The chance of seeing Eagles and sea lions is good.

August

Welcome to Summer! Have your sunscreen, glasses, water, and hat ready. This time of year 80 degree days are common with clear sunny skies. Pink salmon are prolific and Silver salmon are showing up in larger numbers and putting on more weight. Anchor up to bottom fish for Halibut or drift slack tide for Lingcod and Rockfish. Listen to the eagles chatter as a juvenile tries to score his next meal and is put in his place by a mature counterpart. Watch for Whales breaching, enjoy a a cold beer, and take in the pristine waters of southeast Alaska while filling your freezer with fresh fish for the months to come.

September

Silver Salmon aka. Crazy Cohos. September is a favorite for fall silvers. They can pack on a pound a week and by this time of year they are fat and feisty. Be ready for the bite to turn on. Silvers will have you doing the fish dance. These fish jump out of the water, swim at the boat, swim into the gear, and do everything they can to shake the hooks. A solid hook set and keeping tension on the fish is key. Cohos are great table fare and one of the mildest and most versatile salmon in the kitchen. Halibut, Lingcod, and Rockfish are available at this time as well.

Weather

Ketchikan gets on average 140 inches of rain each year. While we can have some beautiful summer days, the weather can change quickly. Expect rain and bring layers. We do have rain gear on hand if you should need it as well as sunscreen. The two pictures below are the same day on a 4 hour (half day) charter. Sometimes it will rain and then turn into a super nice day. Other times it will be a super nice day and then rain. Sometimes it only rains. Layers are always a good idea so that you can stay cool or warm if needed.

Fish Processing

At the end of your trip we have fish processing forms available with Alaska Sportfishing Expeditions. Your fish is iced down, filleted, flash frozen, and stored until the date you fly out or can be shipped via FedX. If shipped it is overnighted to your door on the date you choose arriving fresh the following day.

Choose How You Want Your Fish Processed:

Fresh

Whole Fillets or 1lb Portions?

Whole Fillets are great on the grill for a large group of people.

1 Pound portions are recommended for serving 2-4 people.

Smoked

Whole fillets or Chunks?

we recommend smoked chunks for a more even smoke, portion size pieces, & easier to handle.

we suggest Whole fillets if you want to make sure you are receiving the fish you caught.

Cruise Ship Guests

At the end of the trip we have fish processing forms available with Alaska Sportfishing Expeditions. Cedars Lodge meets us back at the dock to bag and tag the fish. Fish is iced down, filleted, flash frozen, and shipped via FedX. It is overnighted to your door on the date you choose for it to ship arriving fresh the following day.

Fish Ships Monday - Thurday

Frequently Asked Questions

Most frequent questions and answers

What must haves should I bring?

– Sunglasses/Hat. The sun reflects off the water and is bright

– Layers/Rain Jacket. Temps change from cool to warm being able to put on or take off layers is important.

– Cash. Fishing licenses are cash sales only. Bring extra incase you choose/need to purchase a king stamp.

-PFA: Positive Fishing Attitude.

Depending on the species the bite can turn on or at times off. We find our chances improve with a positive outlook especially when things are slow. So take a sip on a soda or cold beverage (available at Knudson Cove Marina), hit the head, take a moment to soak in the scenery, and be ready for that rod to get a bite.

How do I get to the Marina?

Knudson Cove Marina is located 14 miles north of Ketchikan. If you have booked through your ship travel to and from the marina is provided via bus. If you are visiting Ketchikan at your own leisure, the easiest way to get to the Marina is to request a shuttle or catch a cab with Yellow Taxi or Sourdough cab. Cab costs approximately $35 one way. Marina is Located at 407 Knudson Cove Rd. .

How can I contact the company?

E-mail, TEXT, or CALL is the best way to get in contact. Let us know when you will be here and what trip you are interested in. Jan will follow up with you via email or a call.

What food and drinks are available?

On the boat we provide coffee, water, sodas, cookies, and a smoked salmon snack. At the Marina beer and liquor are available for sale after 8:00am. They also have a conveince store with breakfast sandwiches, chips, drinks, etc. If you are wanting lunch during your trip I would recommend the Burger Shack or bringing sandwiches from town. Safeway, A & P, or Ward Cove Deli have some great options. We have coolers with Ice to keep food and beverages cold.

Where & How do I purchase my fishing license?

We sell fishing licenses on the boat. All licenses bought on the boat are cash sales only. A one day fishing license is $25 dollars per person. If you are interested in keeping any King salmon caught you will need to purchase a King Stamp for an additional $15 dollars. You can also purchase your fishing license online at www.adfg.alaska.gov

What payment methods are accepted?

On the boat cash of check. is accepted. Credit cards can not be accepted at this time unless you pay in advance online.

ketchikan chrome alaska

CONTACT US

P.O. BOX 765

WARD COVE, AK 99928

PHONE: 707-5-SALMON

EMAIL: fish.SEAK@gmail.com

HOURS

MON – SUN

6:00AM – 6:00PM

LOCATION

407 KNUDSON COVE RD
KETCHIKAN, AK 99901