Cruise Fishing Excursions

Question

Our cruise offers several salmon fishing excursions in Ketchikan, but they are all on small crowded boats, and after being at sea for a week, I prefer to not get on another boat. I am looking for an excursion where a local fisherman can pick us up and drive us to a nearby fishing spot to try fishing, from the land. I couldn't find any online, but folks suggested I ask here. Thanks if y know of anyone!

Answer

In Ketchikan, most organized salmon fishing excursions are boat-based, as salmon primarily run in rivers and estuaries accessed via water. However, there are some land-based or shore-access options if you prefer to avoid another boat after your cruise. These experiences often involve a local guide driving you to a nearby river or stream where you can fish from the shore or wade into calm waters.

Here are some options and tips:

Local Fishing Guides / Charters with Shore Access: Some local independent guides offer private, customizable trips where they pick you up in Ketchikan and drive you to rivers for salmon or trout fishing from the bank. It’s worth contacting smaller, family-run guide services directly, as they may not be listed on large cruise excursion websites.
Creek Street / Ketchikan Rivers: Areas like Ward Creek or Ketchikan Creek sometimes allow shore fishing for salmon, and a guide can assist you with licenses, gear, and the best spots.
Kayak & Shore Combo: A few guides provide kayak-to-shore excursions where you paddle short distances and fish from quieter coves or river mouths, keeping you off large boats but still giving access to fish-rich areas.

Additional recommendations:

Contact the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau – they often have updated information about local guides who cater to land-based fishing experiences.
Purchase a temporary Alaska fishing license ahead of time online to save time with the guide.
Ask the local tackle shops (e.g., Gillnetters or Alaskan Tackle) for recommendations – they often know local guides who don’t advertise widely online.

While purely land-based salmon fishing options are limited in Ketchikan compared to boat excursions, by reaching out to local guides and shops, you can usually arrange a private trip that minimizes boat time and provides a more relaxed fishing experience from shore.

Cruise Fishing Excursions

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