Sitka Fishing Report 2025

Peak August Fishing in Sitka and the Debut of Our New Rig

August in Sitka is living up to its reputation for incredible late-summer fishing, with both saltwater and freshwater producing fast action. Coho salmon have arrived in numbers, and their size and fight seem to grow by the day. Pink and chum salmon are keeping things lively near river mouths and tidal zones, offering plenty of variety for anglers whether they’re fishing from a boat or the shoreline. King salmon are still on the board too, with resident anglers landing impressive fish in the 25–30 pound range. The nonresident king season reopened on August 4, with a limited harvest allowed—one fish per day over 28 inches, with an annual limit of one.

Halibut fishing has stayed strong, from the calm inside waters to offshore grounds, with recent catches pushing the 100-pound mark. Rockfish, including yelloweye, continue to bite well when the weather allows. While the first part of the week brought some rough seas, conditions are settling and opening the door for more productive trips ahead.

The big news, though, is what’s now taking anglers to those fishing grounds. We’re thrilled to introduce our brand-new 45-foot Northriver. 12.5 feet wide, powered by triple 300-horsepower Yamahas, and built for speed, stability, and comfort. This boat is an absolute beast, cutting through waves and getting clients on the fish quickly, while delivering a premium fishing experience from start to finish. She’s already in action for our 2025 season, and the feedback from guests has been outstanding. Between the fishing variety, the peak coho run, and our new ride, August in Sitka is one for the books.

Looking to hit the saltwater in Sitka? Let’s talk fishing.

Coho are Showing Up and Solid Bottom Fishing Highlight Sitka’s July

Sitka’s July saltwater fishing has been a real treat. Our clients have been having a blast, thanks to a mix of mostly smooth sailing and just a couple of bumpy days thrown in. The real star lately is the coho salmon with numbers picking up well by later July. These fish are charging in strong, and let me tell you, it’s hard to beat the kind of fast, wild action they’re providing. Most days, folks are filling their limits quick, with the silvers putting on a heck of a show as they dart and jump behind the boat. You’ll also find plenty of pinks and chums out there, making sure nobody goes home wondering what a tug feels like.

On the bottom, halibut and lingcod keep the rods bent for anglers of all stripes. Lingcod are showing up nicely and halibut are coming in all sizes, from perfect for the grill to a few true heavyweights that’ll get your heart pumping. Toss in some rockfish and the occasional yelloweye, and coolers are getting a serious workout by the end of each trip.

For those keeping track, a couple of key rules for July: nonresident king salmon retention closed after the 7th, so it’s been all catch and release for those, but the coho bag remains generous, plus there are specified size limits for halibut and lingcod. As July winds down, coho are absolutely the headline act in Sitka’s salt water, and with the weather holding fair, it looks like the good times are set to roll right into August.

Sitka’s Saltwater Season Heats Up in June

The highlight of early summer has been watching the next generation of fishermen get hooked on the sport. On June 18th, two young anglers (pictured above) were all smiles as they cranked in king salmon, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It has been a joy to share Alaska’s incredible fisheries with kids and families, and these moments remind us why we love what we do.

Just a few days earlier, on June 12th, we hosted three generations of fishermen on the water. Their success with beautiful king salmon was matched only by the joy of being together in such a stunning setting. Experiences like these underscore the unique magic of Sitka, a place where families come together and traditions are born.

Say Hello to the New Rig

Looking ahead, we are thrilled about our new charter boat, set to launch soon. At over 45 feet long and 12.5 feet wide, she promises to deliver a premium fishing experience for our clients. The finishing touches are underway, and we cannot wait to welcome anglers aboard this state-of-the-art vessel.

Sitka Fishing Outlook: The Rest of Summer

This summer, Sitka has offered excellent fishing for king salmon, halibut, rockfish, and lingcod. Halibut and bottomfish are also plentiful, rounding out the classic Sitka saltwater experience.

Always check for the latest updates from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before heading out.

Weather conditions have been generally favorable, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days, though occasional rough seas have reminded us to be prepared.

All in all, the 2025 season is delivering great fishing, family fun, and anticipation for even bigger adventures ahead.