Fishing Charters In Ketchikan Alaska | 5 Hour Charter Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fivehour offshore fishing and crabbing charter in Ketchikan watersDrop crab pots and fish for wild salmon with expert guidesWildlife viewing includes orcas, humpback whales, and eagles
Picture this: you're standing on the deck of a well-equipped charter boat, watching the early morning mist roll off the Tongass Narrows while your captain explains exactly where to drop those crab pots. That's how most days start with Ketchikan's Finest Fishing Charters, and trust me, it only gets better from there. This 5-hour combo trip puts you right in the action for both Dungeness crabbing and salmon fishing, all while cruising through some of Alaska's most wildlife-rich waters. We're talking about a genuine Alaskan experience here—not some watered-down tourist version, but the real deal that locals have been enjoying for decades.
Your day kicks off with a thorough gear check and safety briefing at the dock. Our boats are Coast Guard inspected and equipped with everything you need—from quality rods and reels to proper rain gear if the weather turns. The beauty of this charter is how we blend two distinct Southeast Alaska traditions into one trip. First, we'll motor out to prime crabbing spots where you'll learn to bait and drop your own pots. There's something deeply satisfying about lowering those traps into 80 feet of water, knowing that hungry Dungeness crabs are waiting below. After setting our crab gear, we transition to salmon fishing using proven techniques that have been putting fish in the boat for generations. The four-person capacity keeps things intimate—you won't feel rushed or crowded, and everyone gets plenty of hands-on time with both activities. Between the crabbing and fishing action, keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife show that Southeast Alaska puts on daily. Humpback whales surface near the boat regularly during summer months, and bald eagles are so common you'll stop counting them after the first hour.
We run a combination of trolling and mooching techniques depending on what the fish are telling us that day. For salmon, we typically start with downriggers set at various depths—usually between 30 and 120 feet—pulling flasher and hoochie combinations or cut-plug herring. The key to success in Ketchikan waters is understanding the tidal movements and how salmon use the current breaks around underwater structure. Our captains read the fish finder constantly, adjusting our spread based on bait balls and fish marks. For crabbing, we use commercial-grade pots baited with fresh herring or salmon carcasses. The trick is knowing exactly where to set them—Dungeness crabs prefer sandy or muddy bottoms near rocky areas, and after years of working these waters, we've got the productive spots dialed in. All tackle is included, from the heavy-duty crab lines to the sensitive salmon rods that let you feel every head shake. We keep multiple rods in the water when trolling, so there's always a chance for doubles or even triples when we hit a school of feeding fish.
King salmon are the crown jewel of Ketchikan fishing, with fish ranging from 15 to 40 pounds being caught regularly from May through August. These bruisers fight like nothing else in Alaska waters—they'll take line deep, jump clear of the surface, and test every knot in your setup. What makes kings special here is how they feed aggressively in the nutrient-rich waters around Ketchikan, fattening up before their spawning runs. The best action typically happens during the early morning hours or late afternoon when the tide is moving. Coho salmon show up in good numbers starting in June and provide some of the most exciting fishing you'll find anywhere. These silver rockets average 8 to 12 pounds and are known for their acrobatic fights—expect multiple jumps and screaming runs that'll have your drag singing. Cohos are less picky about lures than kings, making them perfect for first-time visitors who want consistent action.
Dungeness crab are what really set this charter apart from standard fishing trips. These tasty crustaceans average 6 to 7 inches across and provide some of the sweetest crab meat you'll ever taste. Peak season runs from June through September when the crabs are actively feeding and moving into shallower waters. There's something primal about pulling up a crab pot loaded with dinner—it connects you to Alaska's fishing heritage in a way that just trolling for salmon can't match. The daily limit is generous, and most trips result in enough crab for a proper feast back at your lodge or vacation rental.
This combination crabbing and fishing charter represents everything that makes Ketchikan special—world-class fishing, sustainable crabbing, and wildlife viewing all rolled into one well-planned day on the water. The five-hour format gives you enough time to really get into the fishing without feeling rushed, and the small group size means personal attention from start to finish. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to add Alaska species to your list or a family wanting to experience authentic Alaskan fishing culture, this trip delivers on all fronts. The boats run daily during peak season, but the best dates fill up fast—especially during the height of the king salmon runs in June and July. Don't wait until you're already in town to book; these top-rated charters sell out regularly because repeat customers know exactly what they're getting. Ready to drop some crab pots and bend some rods? Give Ketchikan's Finest Fishing Charters a call and reserve your spot on what might just be the highlight of your Alaska adventure.
Our 2023 Raider is built for serious fishing in Ketchikan's waters. This 28-foot sportfishing boat cuts through Alaska's choppy seas with its 250HP Honda engine, hitting speeds up to 40 knots to get you to the best fishing spots fast. The radar keeps you safe when fog rolls in, while the fish finder helps locate schools of salmon hiding below. Drop crab pots in deeper waters or cast lines for wild salmon - this boat handles both with ease. The icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during long fishing days. With GPS navigation, onboard toilet, and room for up to 6 anglers, you're set for productive hours on the water chasing Alaska's legendary fish.
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