For The Fishing Enthusiast: A Guide To Kodiak’s Marine Life
If you love fishing, you’re certainly going to want to partake in Kodiak!
Kodiak has a rich marine ecosystem, which means a variety of fish are available for you to catch, including, of course, salmon. Learn about some of the species so you can plan your ideal fishing trip.
King Salmon (Chinook)
This is a saltwater fish, and one of Alaska’s most popular exports. They are best caught in June and July, and can be found in Monashka Creek or Monashka Bay, as well as Chiniak Bay. You’ll want to make sure you have sturdy, proper equipment – king salmon can reach up to 80 lbs, although most of the time you’ll catch ones in the 20-25 lb range.
Red Salmon (Sockeye)
Red salmon are found in creeks and rivers, primarily accessible by the Kodiak road system, and average 4-7 lbs. Your best chances to catch them are in June and July at Buskin River or Saltery River, although they are also found in Pasagshak River.
Pink Salmon (Humpy)
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Go fishing for pink salmon in July through September near estuaries. There’s no best spot to find these fish – they are absolutely everywhere, considering they are the most populous species in Kodiak. They tend to be small, weighing in at only 3 to 5 lbs, but don’t underestimate them – they are tough fighters when they are reeled in.
Silver Salmon (Coho)
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Silver salmon can be found in bodies of saltwater from August to September, and you’ll likely need to charter a boat to catch some – steer towards Cape Chiniak. If you want to catch them in freshwater, go fishing from September to October at any of the major rivers (Buskin, Saltery, American, or Olds).
Steelhead Trout
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You may see these trout, but their protected status means you must release them if you catch them. The Karluk River is your best chance to see one, although you may want to also try the Dog Salmon River in October.
Halibut
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These are one of the most popular fish to catch because they are excellent for bragging rights – people often catch halibut weighing in around 200 lbs, with the current record standing at 450 lbs! You can catch them from April to September at Cape Chiniak or Long Island, among other locations, but you’ll definitely need to charter a boat – they like to lay among rocks in slightly deeper waters.
Rockfish
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There are over 30 species of rockfish, most often found in Monashka Bay, for you to catch. They are great if you want to be sure there’s something on your plate for dinner that night, or if you’re new to fishing.
Greenling
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You’ll find greenling near rockfish, and if you catch one, relish it – they’re delicious.
Lingcod
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Lingcod have a protected status due to overfishing, so you can only catch them from July to December.
Dolly Varden
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If you’re looking to catch Dolly Varden, a fish closely related to trout, head to Mission Creek or Pillar Creek in May or from July to October when they are migrating to and from the sea for mating season.
Enjoy fishing while you’re in Kodiak and try some of our fresh seafood dishes!