Fishing tours in Hoonah deliver authentic Alaskan experiences without the crowds of bigger ports.
The standout option is Wooshkeetaan’s tight-knit halibut charter, limiting groups to six people and earning near-perfect reviews. We love their focused approach to deep-sea fishing and helpful local guides.
NatVenture’s combination of river fishing and bear watching hits the sweet spot for nature enthusiasts, while Ear Mountain’s dual whale-watching and fishing excursion offers great value on their comfortable 32-foot vessel.
Let’s check out these top fishing adventures in detail.
Key Points
- Wooshkeetaan Tours offers a highly-rated 3-hour halibut fishing charter with a maximum capacity of 6 travelers and opportunities to spot wildlife.
- NatVenture Tours provides a 5-star rated river fishing and bear watching tour from Icy Strait Point, with private transportation and expert local guides.
- Ear Mountain Charters Tours offers whale watching and fishing tours from Icy Strait Point, with small-group sizes and a 32ft offshore power boat.
- Fishing licenses can be purchased on the boats for $25 cash, allowing travelers to participate in the fishing activities.
- The tours cover a range of experiences, including halibut fishing, wild salmon fishing, bear watching, and whale watching, catering to various interests.
Halibut Fishing Charter
Although the Halibut Fishing Charter by Wooshkeetaan Tours in Hoonah, USA offers a popular and well-reviewed fishing experience, it has a maximum capacity of 6 travelers and a 3-hour duration that some guests have found too short.
Located at Icy Strait Point, the charter includes all necessary fishing gear, light rain gear, and snacks like chips and cookies. Fishing licenses can be purchased on the boat for $25 in cash.
While the charter has a 95% traveler recommendation and an overall rating of 5.0 out of 20 reviews, some guests have complained about the limited fishing success.
However, most travelers praise the captain’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife like orcas, bears, and sea lions.
The charter offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option.
Read our full review: Halibut Fishing Charter Review
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River Fishing and Bear Watching
Fishing the rivers near Hoonah provides travelers the opportunity to catch wild salmon and spot majestic bears in their natural habitat. NatVenture Tours offers an [CURRENT SUBTOPIC] experience that showcases the best of the region. Their 5-star rated tour departs from Icy Strait Point, with pickup options available.
The tour runs daily from April through October, with scheduling variations during the shoulder seasons. Participants will enjoy private transportation, fishing gear, waders, and a fishing license, all included in the $375 per person rate.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable local guides, who provide expert instruction and help guests reel in an impressive catch.
Wildlife sightings, particularly of bears, are a highlight, with recent travelers reporting seeing up to two bears during their excursion. With a maximum group size of 6, the [CURRENT SUBTOPIC] tour offers a personalized and memorable outdoor adventure.
Read our full review: River Fishing and Bear Watching Review
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Ear Mountain Charters Tours: Whale Watching and Fishing
Ear Mountain Charters offers an exhilarating whale watching and fishing tour from Icy Strait Point. The 3-6 hour small-group tour, limited to 6 participants, costs $284 per person and includes a guided boat cruise, sightseeing, and the chance to view marine life and wildlife.
Guests will be picked up at the Excursion hub 30 minutes after their ship arrives in port.
The tour is conducted aboard a 32ft North River offshore power boat with a heated cabin, bathroom, and seating for 6. Fishing gear is provided, but guests must obtain a $15 day fishing license.
While rain gear isn’t supplied, the boat’s features ensure a comfortable experience, regardless of the weather. Guests should dress appropriately and bring their passport or ID, credit card, and closed-toe shoes.
This tour offers a flexible and memorable way to explore Alaska’s magnificent ecosystem, with the opportunity to spot whales and other marine life, as well as try your hand at fishing.
Guests can return to Icy Strait Point or explore the nearby town of Hoonah after the tour.
Read our full review: Ear Mountain Charters Tours: Whale Watching and Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Hoonah offers a variety of excellent fishing tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking to catch halibut, explore rivers for salmon, or combine fishing with whale watching, there are plenty of options to choose from. These tours provide a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and enjoy some of the best fishing Alaska has to offer.