Going on an Alaskan Fishing Trip?

Answer 1

Prince of Wales Island in southeast Alaska has some of the best sports fishing in the world. From trophy-sized king salmon to delicious black cod, fishermen who visit the island never go home empty handed. Although rainfall is plentiful in all of the islands in the Tongass National Forest, the rain is what helps the salmon population thrive.

Fishing season begins with the first run of king salmon during the month of May. King salmon are the largest of the Pacific salmon species as well as the tastiest. Although the seas can still be slightly rough during late spring in southeast Alaska, a dinner table graced by king salmon is worth a touch of turbulence on the water. However, most Alaska fishing trips stay within protected waters, so danger of experiencing extremely rough conditions is minimal.

Silver salmon follow the king during the months of July and August. More abundant and smaller than kings, silvers have leaner flesh but still contain an optimal level of the omega-3 oils that provide salmon with their health-giving properties. Silver salmon are the most versatile of the Pacific salmon species as far as culinary uses. They're good grilled, barbecued or baked. Cooked flesh can be flaked and sprinkled on the tops of salads or into omelets.

After saltwater fishing is finished for the year at the end of August, fishermen go to the streams to catch silver salmon heading up the river to spawn. With the silvers come steelhead trout as well as pink and chum salmon. Most sports fishermen don't bother catching either pink or chum salmon in the streams, however. By the time these particular species get to fresh water, they are already beginning to spawn, which makes them poor candidates for the dinner table.

Those who are planning an Alaskan fishing trip should pack for inclement weather no matter what time of year they intend on visiting. Even sunny days in southeast Alaska on a sports fishing boat can feel cold to those who live in warmer climates, so it's advised that guests bring clothing that is easily layered. Proper footwear is always important. Boots worn for fishing should be waterproof and slip-resistant.