Salmon Fishing in the Salmon Capital of the World

Ketchikan, often called the salmon capital of the world, promises more than just stunning scenery; it offers some of the best salmon fishing opportunities in Alaska. While there are many fishing charters available, this particular experience by Baranof Fishing Excursions truly stands out. It’s been rated a perfect 5.0 based on enthusiastic reviews, with 100% recommending it, and for good reason.

This tour combines modern equipment, expert guides, and prime fishing locations, ensuring an exciting and rewarding day on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this trip aims to deliver action-packed moments and memorable catches — all while immersing you in the authentic Alaskan fishing culture.

One potential consideration is the group size—limited to just five travelers—which means more personalized attention but also requires early booking. Still, if you’re after top-tier salmon fishing with knowledgeable guides in a small group setting, this experience is a superb choice. It’s ideal for travelers who love active outdoor pursuits, crave authentic wildlife encounters, or simply want to experience a traditional Alaskan sport in its purest form.

Good To Know

• Expert guides and modern boats enhance the fishing experience, increasing your chances of success.
• The location offers prime fishing grounds, from inshore hatchery areas to the open ocean, ensuring variety and action.
• Seasonal salmon variety — pinks, chums, silvers, and kings — means you can target different fish depending on the timing.
• The small group size (max 5) provides a more personalized, less crowded experience.
• Included snacks and gear make for a comfortable day on the water, while optional gratuities allow for tipping guides based on your satisfaction.
• The tour’s flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect on This Salmon Fishing Tour

The Itinerary and Route

This five-hour adventure begins at the Ketchikan cruise ship docks, where you’ll meet your guide and board a sleek, multi-beam sonar-equipped aluminum Raider boat. This choice of vessel isn’t incidental; it’s designed for maximum stability and efficiency, giving you sharp insights into the depths beneath.

The guides, including highly praised individuals like Garrett and Devin, love sharing their deep knowledge of the area and fishing techniques. They know exactly where the fish are, whether that’s in front of the hatchery or in the swarms of the Dixon Entrance. The trip is designed to be flexible—your guide can shift locations to find the best action, whether trolling near the coast or heading further into the open waters.

The Action: Trolling for Salmon

Salmon fishing here is primarily via trolling, a method that involves slowly dragging baited lines behind the boat. This technique is highly regarded for its technical challenge and excitement, especially during peak season when the five salmon species are actively feeding and fighting.

Guests can expect non-stop action, with reviews mentioning catching multiple salmon and releasing over 20 kings in a single trip. The fighting nature of these fish, combined with the quiet serenity of the waters, amplifies the thrill. As one reviewer, Duane, noted, “It was non-stop action from start to finish,” with a good mix of catches including coho, pink, chum, and some mighty kings.

The Equipment and Comfort

The boat fleet is outfitted with electric downriggers and cutting-edge sonar, giving guides the tools to locate the fish efficiently. As the guides are highly experienced, they can help you understand the best techniques for each species.

Included in the tour are snacks, rubber rain gear, boots, and gloves, ensuring you stay comfortable regardless of weather conditions. While gratuities are not included, many guests found the guides to be personable, knowledgeable, and attentive, making tipping well-deserved.

The Guide Experience

Reviews emphasize the personalized attention and local expertise of guides like Garrett and Devin. One reviewer mentioned Garrett was “polite, personable, and knowledgeable,” while another appreciated Devin’s area knowledge. Not only do they assist with fishing techniques, but they also share interesting tidbits about the local environment and wildlife.

A standout moment was when Garrett spotted orcas during the return trip, adding a spectacular wildlife encounter that many travelers cherish. This highlights the guides’ keen eyes and the overall immersive experience.

The Value of This Salmon Fishing Tour

At $359 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-equipped experience. Given the modern boats, expert guides, prime waters, and the chance to catch multiple salmon species, it’s a strong value for serious anglers or those looking to try fishing in Alaska’s legendary waters.

The small group size means more time fishing than waiting, with personalized guidance that significantly boosts your chances of success. Plus, the flexibility to choose different locations depending on the season and fish activity adds to the appeal.

Why It Stands Out

• The state-of-the-art boats with advanced sonar and electric downriggers provide a technological edge.
• The seasonal variety of salmon ensures the trip remains exciting and rewarding throughout the fishing season.
• The guides’ local knowledge and enthusiasm make the experience more than just fishing—it becomes an educational and wildlife-rich adventure.
• The flexible cancellation policy offers reassurance, especially for travelers worried about weather or changing plans.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This is an excellent choice for avid anglers who want a high-quality, guided fishing experience with every tool and comfort included. It suits travelers wanting an authentic Alaskan fishing adventure in a small, intimate group, ensuring personalized attention.

It also appeals to nature lovers who enjoy wildlife sightings—like orcas and eagles—during their day on the water. Families or groups of friends seeking a fun, active outing will find this trip both engaging and rewarding.

Finally, those who value professional guides with local expertise and the latest equipment will appreciate the effort Baranof Fishing Excursions puts into each trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Fishery Experience for You?

This salmon fishing tour in Ketchikan offers a combination of modern technology, expert guidance, and beautiful surroundings that guarantees a rewarding day on the water. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want an authentic and active fishing experience, with a good chance of landing multiple salmon species.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll receive personal attention, and the included gear and snacks make the trip as comfortable as possible. While the price may seem steep to some, the quality of equipment, the expert guiding, and the prime fishing grounds make this a great value for those serious about their fishing adventure.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and adrenaline-filled day amidst Alaska’s breathtaking scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for anglers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking to tick off a legendary Alaskan activity in style.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive snacks, rubber rain gear, rubber boots, and gloves. The boat, guides, and fishing equipment are included in the price.

Are gratuities included?
No, tips are not included in the price, but guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable service, making tipping a nice way to show appreciation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Ketchikan cruise ship docks.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time for fishing and wildlife viewing.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the technical nature of trolling might be easier for experienced anglers, guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making it accessible for newcomers.

What kinds of salmon can I expect to catch?
Depending on the season, you’ll have the chance to catch pink, chum, silver, and king salmon.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of modern fishing technology, expert guides, and the thrill of catching iconic Alaskan salmon, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking quality and authenticity. Whether you’re after your first catch or an adrenaline-filled fishing day, this experience is likely to deliver memorable moments amidst some of the best waters in the world.