Ketchikan: Alaska Fishing Trip & Wilderness Campfire Meal

Summary

Alaska’s wild coast, fresh catch, campfire flavors and rain-soaked laughter

You’ll feel Alaska’s wild edge on this Ketchikan fishing trip—hauling in your own catch from a skiff, then sharing stories around a campfire as your fish turns into lunch. Spot eagles overhead, taste fresh sourdough with garlic aioli, and let the woodsmoke linger on your jacket for days after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed out on the water near Ketchikan was how the air tasted—somewhere between salt and pine needles, with this sharpness that woke me up more than my morning coffee ever does. We’d barely zipped our rain jackets when our guide, Mark (who looked like he could wrestle a bear but just grinned all the time), handed us rods and pointed out where the salmon were running. “Drop in quick,” he said, “they’re biting today.” I fumbled with the reel at first—my gloves were too big—and Mark just winked like it happened to everyone. The skiff rocked gently while an eagle circled overhead. Not quiet exactly, but not noisy either. Just…alive.

I didn’t expect to move around so much—we’d try one spot for rockfish, then suddenly Mark would say, “Nope, we’re chasing cod now!” and off we’d go again across the bay, wind slapping my cheeks pink. There was this moment when I hooked something heavy and honestly thought I’d lose it, but Mark leaned over and coached me through every tug. When I finally pulled up a shimmering Pacific cod, Li (the other guest) cheered so loud a seal popped its head up to see what was happening. The whole thing felt fast-paced but never rushed—like we were part of some local rhythm instead of tourists ticking boxes.

After fishing, we headed for shore—a patch of forest that smelled like wet cedar and woodsmoke. Someone had already started a fire under a tarp (bless them), so we peeled off our rain gear and huddled close while Mark got to work with our catch. He made this saffron stew right there in a battered pot; I still remember how the steam carried hints of garlic and something citrusy into the cold air. Sourdough rolls with aioli appeared from somewhere (I ate two before anyone noticed), plus this rhubarb-blueberry crisp that tasted like summer pretending to be autumn. We laughed about Li’s Mandarin pronunciation—Mark tried to say thank you back but gave up halfway through.

I keep thinking about how simple it all felt—just good food, wet boots drying by the fire, stories traded between strangers who probably wouldn’t meet again after this day trip in Ketchikan Alaska. Sometimes you don’t need grand gestures; just a warm meal you helped catch yourself is enough.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fishing and wilderness dining experience

• Get outfitted with waterproof gear
• Board a stable, open-air skiff
• Fish for rockfish, cod, and salmon
• Observe wildlife like seals and eagles
• Head to remote wilderness campsite
• Enjoy gourmet meal with fresh catch

Top questions

Is fishing gear provided on this Ketchikan Alaska fishing trip?

Yes—all fishing equipment plus rain jackets, boots, hats, gloves are included.

Do I get to eat the fish I catch during the tour?

Yes—the fish you catch becomes part of your gourmet campfire meal at the wilderness site.

How many people are on each boat?

Each skiff takes up to six guests for a small-group experience.

What kind of fish can I catch?

You might catch rockfish, cod or Pacific salmon (when in season).

Is lunch included in the price?

Yes—lunch includes your freshly caught fish in saffron stew with sourdough rolls and dessert.

Are there wildlife sightings on this day trip?

You may see seals, eagles, whales, porpoises—even bears sometimes.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

Infants can join in prams or strollers; however it's not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Does the tour run if it rains?

Yes—the trip runs rain or shine; waterproof clothing is provided for everyone.

What’s included

Your day includes all fishing gear plus waterproof boots, bibs, jackets, hats and gloves; guidance from a licensed local expert; wildlife watching along Alaska’s coastline; and a hearty lunch featuring your own freshly caught fish cooked into saffron stew with sourdough bread and rhubarb-blueberry crisp served hot by the campfire before heading back to town.