Lingcod season opens in Southeast Alaska May 16th 2025

May 9, 2025

The lingcod sport fishing season in Ketchikan and across Southeast Alaska opens on May 16, 2025, offering anglers the opportunity to target this formidable bottom-dweller known for its aggressive strikes and excellent table fare. Information provided by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game 🎣 Lingcod Season Overview

Southeast Alaska 2025 Lingcod Sport Fishing Regulations for the Ketchikan Area
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game announced today that the lingcod sport fishing seasons, bag and possession limits, annual limits, and size limits have been established for the Southern Southeast Area (see attached map). In this area the following regulations apply:  

Southern Southeast Area

 
  • Season: May 16 – November 30
  • Limits:

    • Residents

       
      • 1 per day, 2 in possession, no size limit.

    • Nonresidents

       
      • 1 per day, 1 in possession, size limit: 30 to 35 inches in length, or 55 inches or greater in length. Annual limit of 2 fish, one of which is 30 to 35 inches in length, one of which is 55 inches or greater in length, a harvest record is required.
        • Nonresident anglers shall immediately record the date and location (body of water fished), in ink, of all lingcod harvested either on their sport fishing license or on their nontransferable harvest record.
  • Charter operators and crew members may not retain lingcod while clients are on board the vessel.
  • When fishing in the exclusive economic zone (between 3-200 nautical miles from shore), see map below, all anglers must comply with the nonresident bag, possession, and annual limits for lingcod.
  These regulations are designed to ensure that the sport harvest of lingcod stays within fishery allocations established by the Alaska Board of Fisheries. If fishing in more than one lingcod management area, anglers are reminded that bag, possession, and annual limits are not additive across areas. An angler may not harvest their limit in one area and then move to a different area to harvest a separate limit.   For further information, contact the nearest ADF&G office or visit our website.   Southeast Alaska 2025 Lingcod Sport Fishing Regulations for the Prince of Wales Area
  🧰 Fishing Techniques & Tips Lingcod are typically found near rocky reefs, pinnacles, and underwater structures. Effective fishing methods include jigging with weighted lures that mimic injured baitfish. Due to their aggressive nature, lingcod often strike at flashy, fast-moving lures. Anglers should be prepared for a strong fight, as these fish are known for their powerful runs and headshakes. 🌦️ Weather Outlook for Opening Day On May 16, 2025, Ketchikan is forecasted to experience occasional rain with a high of 53°F (12°C) and a low of 44°F (7°C). Anglers should dress appropriately for wet conditions and ensure safety measures are in place when venturing out. 📋 Final Reminders Harvest Recording: Nonresident anglers must immediately record the date and location of all lingcod harvested on their sport fishing license or nontransferable harvest record. Area Limits: If fishing in more than one lingcod management area, bag, possession, and annual limits are not additive across areas. An angler may not harvest their limit in one area and then move to a different area to harvest a separate limit. For detailed information and updates, anglers should consult the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s official resources or contact local ADF&G offices.