When is the Best Time to Fish in Alaska? May–September Fishing Season Guide
One of the first questions anglers ask when planning an Alaska fishing trip is simple: When is the best time to fish in Alaska? The answer depends on what you’d like to catch, as different species arrive and peak at different points throughout the season. At Screamin’ Reels Lodge, fishing runs from late May through September, allowing anglers to target everything from king and silver salmon to halibut, lingcod, and rockfish.
Understanding what each month has to offer can make it easier to decide when to plan your trip. This guide breaks down the Alaska fishing season month by month, highlighting the species you can expect to catch and what makes each part of the season unique.
May
The lodge opens for the season during the last week in May. This is when Alaska’s fishing season comes alive, and the first migrating king salmon begin to show up in our waters. Known for their size, strength, and outstanding taste, king salmon are one of the most sought-after species in Southeast Alaska. And Screamin’ Reels Lodge places you right in the heart of it all, surrounded by one of the largest Pacific salmon migrations in the world.
What Can I Catch in May? King salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, cod, and black sea bass.
June
June offers many of the same opportunities found in May and is often considered one of the best months of the season for king salmon fishing. By late June, additional salmon species begin arriving in the area. Anglers may encounter early runs of silver salmon, pink salmon, and chum salmon.
What Can I Catch in June? King salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, cod, and black sea bass. Early opportunities for silver salmon.
July
July brings even more exciting fish species to our waters. By this point, multiple salmon species are present, including the highly sought-after silver salmon. Known for their aggressive strikes and hard-fighting nature, they provide fast-paced action and plenty of excitement on the water. For anglers looking for variety, July is one of the best times to fish in Alaska.
What Can I Catch in July? King salmon, silver salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, cod, and black sea bass.
August
The epic silver salmon season continues into August. While king salmon season is largely winding down, anglers may still encounter the occasional fish. Combined with excellent opportunities for halibut, lingcod, and rockfish, August offers an impressive mix of action and variety.
What Can I Catch in August? Silver salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and black sea bass.
September
September marks the final stretch of the season at Screamin’ Reels Lodge. Opportunities to target silver salmon are still very good, and anglers can still enjoy excellent fishing for halibut, lingcod, and rockfish.
What Can I Catch in September? Silver salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and black sea bass.
When is the Best Time to Fish in Alaska?
The best time to fish in Alaska depends on what you’d like to catch. If king salmon are at the top of your list, May, June, and July are excellent choices. If you’re looking for fast-paced silver salmon action, July through August is ideal. No matter when you visit, you’ll have the chance to experience world-class fishing, incredible scenery, and unforgettable days on the water at Screamin’ Reels Lodge. Book your Alaska fishing vacation with us today!
