Ketchikan Salmon Fishing Charter Options
Ketchikan sits at the center of some of Southeast Alaska's most productive salmon water, and the charter options here range from short half-day trips built around cruise ship schedules to full-day outings targeting multiple species. Prices, durations, boat sizes, and included gear vary meaningfully across operators — the comparisons below cover the specifics so you can match a trip to your schedule and group size.
Charter Options by Duration and Price
3–4 Hour Trips
Ketchikan Fishing Trips offers a Private Salmon Fishing Excursion designed specifically for cruise ship guests at a flat $1,400 per boat for three hours, or $1,550 for four. The rate covers the whole vessel regardless of party size. The trip is structured to return guests to the dock before their ship's all-aboard time. All fishing gear, tackle, and bait are included. The operator uses fast boats to reach productive salmon grounds quickly, which matters when the window is short.
5–6 Hour Trips
Several operators run trips in this range, and the differences come down to boat size, group configuration, and what species are in play. Exclusive Alaska runs a dedicated Salmon Fishing trip at $379 per person for 5 or 6 hours aboard a 24-foot cabin cruiser. The boat accommodates a maximum of 4 guests per trip, with an average of 4–5 passengers. Gear is provided — bibs, jacket, rubber boots, rubber gloves, and hats — but the Alaska fishing license and guide gratuity are not included in the price. Guests are paired with others who share the same fishing goals. Exclusive Alaska also offers an Alaska Fishing Combo at $389 per person for 5 or 6 hours on the same 24-foot cabin cruiser. This trip targets Cod, Rockfish, and/or Salmon depending on current conditions. The guide discusses recent production before departure, and the group decides together which species to prioritize. Go Fish Ketchikan lists a Six Hour Halibut & Salmon Combo Charter at $425 per person. The operator notes that the 6-hour duration provides enough time to fish for both salmon and halibut, weather permitting. Wildlife — including bald eagles, humpback whales, killer whales, porpoises, and sea lions — is a consistent part of the experience on every charter. Go Fish Ketchikan also offers Salmon Private Charters at $265 per person for 4 or 6 hours on the water. The trip is operated by the boat owner, who has been chartering in Alaska for over 30 years. Freshly caught fish are immediately iced, and Clover Pass Resort can arrange filleting, flash freezing, or smoking, with Federal Express shipping to your home address.
5-Hour Private Boat Charter
The Alaska Catch runs a Salmon Fishing Charter starting at $900 per boat for 4 or 5 hours. All trips are private and accommodate up to 6 passengers per vessel, with rates based on the number of guests. Guide gratuity, fishing licenses, and fish processing are not included. Licenses must be purchased in advance at store.adfg.alaska.gov.
Full-Day and Multi-Day Trips
Go Fish Ketchikan offers a Full Day Salmon & Halibut Charter at $1,800 per boat for 8–10 hours, with multi-day options available. Early morning departures are Suitable for the best fishing. Guests traveling by cruise ship are directed to call Sourdough Cab at 907-225-5544 for a ride to Clover Pass Resort, where the boat departs. Ketchikan Fishing Trips lists a Private Salmon & Halibut Fishing Combo with Wildlife Viewing at $1,900 per boat for 5 or 8-hour options. The trip targets Halibut, Salmon, Cod, and Rockfish, and includes a guaranteed on-time return for cruise ship guests.
Fishing Licenses
Every operator listed here excludes the Alaska fishing license from the trip price. Purchase your license in advance at store.adfg.alaska.gov before your departure date.
