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Alaska fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Alaska. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Alaska

1240 spots
38 fish
10 lakes
4 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in Alaska

Below are 38 types of fish that can be caught in Alaska. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Alaska and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Alaska to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

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Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in Alaska

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in Alaska. Each Alaska body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

What rivers flow through Alaska?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through Alaska. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in Alaska

Residents under 18 and non-residents under 16 fish for free, but may require a Sport Fishing Harvest Card for certain species. Also, special rules apply for king salmon fishing. The above prices are for sport fishing licenses and may vary for other types of fishing like commercial or subsistence fishing.

For the most accurate and detailed information, it's best to visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website where you can also purchase a fishing license online.

Category License Type Resident Price Non-Resident Price
Sport Fishing Annual $20.00 $100.00
  14-Day - $75.00
  7-Day - $45.00
  3-Day - $30.00
  1-Day - $15.00
King Salmon Stamp - $10.00 (Annual) $15.00 (Per Day)
Resident Licenses Low-Income Sport Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping $5.00 -
  For the Blind $0.50 -
  ADF&G Permanent Senior ID Card (60 or older) Free -
  ADF&G Disabled Veteran Card Free -

Fishing Regulations in Alaska

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to protect native species and ecosystems.
  • Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
  • Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters.
Catch Limits
  • Salmon: Daily limits vary by species and area, with specific bag and possession limits.
  • Halibut: Size and bag limits vary depending on area and regulatory body.
  • Trout and Char: Limits vary by species and area, with size restrictions in some locations.
  • Rockfish: Daily limits vary, with specific regulations for different species.
  • Lingcod: Seasonal closures and limits apply, with size restrictions in some areas.
  • King Crab: Limits and regulations vary by area, with some regions closed to king crab fishing.
  • Clams and Mussels: Bag limits apply, with some areas closed to harvesting due to biotoxins.
  • Shrimp: Permits and gear restrictions apply, with limits on the number of pots used.
  • Pacific Cod: Limits vary by area, with some regions having specific closures.
  • Herring and Smelt: Regulations vary by area, with some regions requiring permits.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
  • Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
  • Special regulations for fishing in state parks, refuges, and critical habitat areas.
  • No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams, hatcheries, and sanctuaries.
  • Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially in freshwater systems.
  • Areas with gear restrictions, such as fly fishing only or single-hook lures.
  • Slot limits and catch-and-release regulations in trophy fishing areas.
  • Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
  • Regulated commercial fishing areas with specific entry and harvest rules.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
  • Research fishing for rare species requires special permits and reporting.
  • Conservation efforts and habitat protection measures for vulnerable species.
  • Monitoring and enforcement to protect critical marine ecosystems.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
  • Regulated fishing seasons for sustainable harvesting of marine resources.
  • Temporary area closures for conservation, research, or habitat restoration efforts.
  • Emergency closures due to environmental conditions or resource conservation needs.
  • Season-specific regulations for migratory fish and shellfish species.

Most popular cities for fishing in Alaska

The largest and most popular fishing cities in Alaska. Cities in Alaska include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.

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