Sportfishing
The welcome arch downtown proclaims Ketchikan as "The Salmon Capital of the World". Five species of salmon head from open ocean into the waters surrounding Ketchikan and nearby Prince of Wales Island en route to their birth streams. Runs of Chinook, coho, sockeye, humpback and chum salmon ensure that fishing opportunities are world class. Ketchikan is a great location for deep water species like Halibut, Rock Fish, Yellow Eye (red snapper) and Cod too. The hard part is deciding among the various options available. Lodges and resorts offer all inclusive packages; or book a half or full day guided charter trip to take you to the hot spots. For the do it yourself fisher- rent a skiff for self guided adventures or a rod and reel to try your luck from shore.
Freshwater anglers will find Dolly Varden, Cutthroat and Rainbow trout as well as Grayling and wily Steelhead. Day trips are easily arranged- some lakes are within hiking distance while others can be accessed only by floatplane. US Forest Service cabins are located along many of the lakes stocked with fish and provide the option of spending 2 or more days in fishing bliss.