Ketchikan Fishing Report

Welcome to a very special Ketchikan fishing report May archive update. This post features what we call a “limit load”—a classic, unforgettable trip that reminds us exactly why we love being on the water in Southeast Alaska.

The Ultimate Family Adventure

 The photo featured on this page captures a great family charter. As we came back into the harbor on the 4 C’s, the boat was loaded down with a massive haul: King Salmon, multiple Halibut, and a great mix of other bottom fish including Rockfish and Lingcod. It was a spectacular day where everything just “clicked” for our guests.

King Salmon and Halibut Timing

This type of abundance is what makes a Ketchikan fishing report May trip so exciting. Late May is the transitional period where the King Salmon are beginning to move through the islands and the Halibut are actively moving onto the flats to feed. It’s one of the few times of year when you can truly “load the boat” with both prized species.

2024 May Regulations Recap

While the visual abundance is incredible, it’s always important to reference the official Ketchikan fishing report May regulations from ADF&G:

• King Salmon: Herring Bay opens June 1 (3 King Salmon of any size daily), and Mountain Point opens June 8 (1 King Salmon daily). Most area waters open June 15.

• Halibut: Trolling and bottom-fishing for halibut remain strong, but remember that mandatory filleting and skin-on requirements are in place to allow for identification on the docks.

• Lingcod: The season opened on May 16, so these “dragons of the deep” are a prime target on your Ketchikan fishing report May trip alongside the abundant Rockfish.

Join an Experienced Captain Seeing a family with a limit like this never gets old. Whether you are after a “limit load” of King Salmon or a massive Halibut, we are dedicated to helping you create your own legendary Alaskan fishing story on the 4 C’s.

Rockfish

Rockfish can be caught year-round. Stop by the Fish & Game office or visit the website for resources on identifying rockfish species. Rockfish regulations remain the same as last year. All sportfishing vessels are required to have at least one deep water release device on board.

Slope Rockfish

• Resident and nonresident anglers:
  • bag limit of one fish; possession limit of two fish; no annual limit

Demersal Shelf Rockfish (except yelloweye)

• Resident anglers: bag limit of one fish; possession limit of two fish; no annual limit.

• Nonresident anglers: Closed; retention is prohibited.

Yelloweye Rockfish:

• Closed; retention is prohibited by all anglers.

Pelagic Rockfish

• Five per day; ten in possession.