Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters: Guide & Recommendations

Chartering a Fishing trip in Whittier, Alaska can be a life long bucket list achievement. Just getting to this isolated alaskan town is an adventure in itself, and once you’re on the water, you’re sure to have an experience you won’t soon forget. In this article AlaskaExplored will provide you with everything you need to know to plan and execute your next great adventure. We have detailed stats, maps, and of course; recommendations for Whittier, Alaska fishing charters.

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Article Overview: Whittier Alaska Fishing Charters

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Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters

Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters: When Should I G0?

The best time to go charter fishing in Whittier, Alaska, depends on the type of fish you’re looking to catch. Generally, the fishing season in Whittier starts in May and goes through September.

May and June are great months for King Salmon, while July and August are the best for catching silver salmon. Pink salmon are typically abundant in July and August. Additionally, September is a good time for both halibut, silver salmon fishing and Rockfish.

For up to date info on season openings, catch limits, and management measures, check out NOAA fishers.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can also affect the fishing experience, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip. Due to its location at the end of a fjord, Whittier is notoriously winding and can sea dangerously high seas.

Getting to Whittier, Alaska

Whittier, Alaska is an isolated town located on the Kenai Peninsula about 40 miles south of Anchorage. There are no commercial flights into Whittier, making it accessible only by road, ferry, or train. But there are a few caveats even to those methods!

By Car: The quickest driving route from Anchorage is to take the Seward Highway south and then follow the Portage Glacier Highway to Whittier. The trip is roughly 40 miles and takes about 1.5 hours. Check tunnel times!

By Train: The Alaska Railroad operates a train service from Anchorage to Whittier during the summer months, with several departures per week. The train journey takes about 2.5 hours and offers stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness.

If you are traveling by car or train, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is the longest highway tunnel in North America, is the only way in and out of tow. The Tunnel is a controlled one way road that alternates directions and shares use with the train. A typical summer schedule has the tunnel running from 5:00am to 11:00PM. Check times here so you don’t get stuck!

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By Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System operates a ferry service throughout Alaska. The ferry operates year-round and provides a scenic way to travel to Whittier. Check schedules and book tickets at their website. Alaska Marine Highway Website.

By Air: There are NO commercial flights into Whittier, Alaska.

What kind of fish can I Catch on a Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charter?

The Prince William Sound and Whittier specifically, are world class destinations for a slew of reasons, excellent fishing being one of them. The sound boasts abundant marine life and diverse fish populations, while the surrounding mountains and glaciers add stunning views to the experience.

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There are a ton of different types of fish that you can catch in Whittier and Prince William Sound, depending on the season and location. Some of the most popular fish species in the area include:

Salmon: Prince William Sound is home to all five species of Pacific salmon, including king, sockeye, coho, chum, and pink salmon. Peak months are from May to September.

Halibut: Halibut are a popular target for anglers in Whittier and Prince William Sound, and my personal favorite fish to eat. These flatfish get BIG, they can weigh in at up to several hundred pounds. Peak season for halibut is June to September.

Lingcod: Lingcod are a predatory fish that are found in the rocky areas of the sound. They are known for their firm, white flesh and fat faces. Peak season for halibut is July to August

Rockfish: There are several species of rockfish that can be found in Prince William Sound, including yelloweye, black, and dusky rockfish. These make great fish tacos! Peak season for halibut is June to September
Salmon Sharks: The largest predators in the sound can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weigh over 600 pounds. Peak season for halibut is July to August

If you aren’t in Whittier during the peak summer months you can still easily fish for King Salmon, Dolly Varden, CutthroatTrout, or Pacific Cod, year round.

Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters: What Should I bring?

If you’re using a trusted fishing charter in Whittier Alaska, they’ll likely provide almost everything you need, but it’s still good to know and confirm that they’ll have these important items.

Fishing license: Make sure you get a fishing license, no ifs ands or buts about it. You’ll need a valid Alaska sport fishing license before you can legally fish in Alaskan waters. Some charter companies will offer them, but make sure before you arrive. You can also get one online at the Alaska Department of Fish & Game.

Fishing gear: A typical fishing setup may include a rod that’s at least 6 feet long with a reel capable of holding at least 150 yards of line. Your charter will provide this.

Safety equipment: This includes a personal flotation device (PFD), which is required by law for all passengers on a boat. It’s also a good idea to bring a first-aid kit and any necessary medications. I’ve seen a lot of hooks in things that aren’t fish, if ya know what I mean…

Weather-appropriate clothing: This includes warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy footwear with good traction. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The last thing you want is to be miserable an hour into a full day on the water. Come prepared!

Food and water: Most charters will offer water, but alot don’t provide any food. Confirm with your charter what exactly they offer and plan accordingly. Most will allow moderate alcohol consumption, just don’t get hammered.

Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters Recommendations

Alaska Good Time Charters is a husband and wife operation and one of the longest running charters in Whittier. They offer some of the cheapest day rates in Whittier, starting at $425 a person. You can even do a shared rod option for $250 for the extra person. They also offer multi-day live aboard fishing trips.

Address: Whittier Alaska 99693. Email: agtc.david@gmail.com Phone: +1-907-373-7447

Saltwater Excursions is helmed by captain Captain Kristen Labrecque, a retired Army helicopter pilot. They offer multi species, or targeted halibut or salmon charters. Trips start at $475 a person. They also offer taxidermy so you you can get your prized watch mounted. Address: 1 F, Harbor Rd, Whittier, AK 99693. Phone: +1-907-360-7975

Whittier Marine Charters is a family run operation thats been at it for over 20 years. They run a slew of fishing charters including halibut trips that are price matched to any of the areas competitors. They also do deep water trophy fish excursions, as well as salmon shark charters, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Address: Harbor Loop Dr.Whittier, Alaska. Email: matt@fishwhittier.com Phone: +1-907-440-9510

Big Irv’s Famous Alaskan Fishing Charters is veteran owned and operated. Big Irv offers two species charters starting at $450 a person or $2700 for a private charter. He also runs Hunting transport/drop off shuttles as well as Glacier tours.

Address: Slip Z1, Whittier, AK 99693. Phone: +1-907-953-6671

Rent your own boat and Charter your own trip with Whittier Boat Rental. They have 3 different vessels for rent, starting at $1,000/day.

Address: 1 Harbor Loop Rd, Whittier, AK 99693. Email: whittierbr@gmail.com Phone: +1-907-232-2783

Tipping & Charter Fishing

Tipping your deckhand on a Whittier, Alaska fishing charter is a common practice and should be expected and calculated into your costs. Most captains don’t pay their deckhands so they rely on your tips to eat! Its standard practice, just like tipping a waitress or bartender.

The amount you tip should be based on the level of service provided and your satisfaction with the experience. A general rule of thumb is to tip around 15-20% of the total cost of the trip. But by all means, if you feel that the deckhand went above and beyond to make your experience exceptional, tip more.

This set up doesn’t make much sense to me. Wether it’s a waitress making $2 an hour or a deckhand working completely for tips, it just seems a bit exploitive. But until I’m in charge, all I can do is try and understand why its done this way.

A lot of captains don’t pay their deckhands because they are typically independent contractors, not employees. This means that they are responsible for their own taxes, social security, and other expenses.

Some deckhands will receive a percentage of the charter fee as their payment, in exchange for their services. This system allows deckhands to have more control over their work and income, but it also means that their earnings are not guaranteed. So tip your deckhands!

Map of Whittier, Alaska Fishing Charters

Fish Processing & Shipping in Whittier, Alaska

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So your day on the boat was a success and you’ve got a boat load of fish heading back to town. You’re wearing a fat smile on your face and fish guts on your fists, but what do you do now? How are you going to get all that glorious seafood you just caught cleaned and back home?

Don’t worry, most charters will have their deckhands clean your fish on the ride on in. Remember, to tip those guys! Once you’re in town you can take your catch, cleaned or not, to a processing company and have them do the rest of the work!

The main game in Whittier, Alaska is Fee’s Custom Seafoods. They’ll take care of everything for you. They clean, freeze, vacuum seal, box, and can even arrange shipping for you. They’ve been doing it for a long time and they work with most outfitters in town.

Fee’s Custom Seafoods works with many of the local charters in town. They’ll clean, freeze, and package your catch at a competitive rate. They sell UPS/FedEx and airline approved boxes for $20-$30. Address: P.O. Box 790 Whittier, Alaska 99693 Email: feescustomseafoods@yahoo.com. Phone: (907) 472-5055

Fishing in Whittier, Alaska: FAQ’s

What if I get seasick?

To prevent seasickness, I always try and eat something before I get onboard. I’ve found that having something in my belly helps when all those stomach acids are sloshing around. In addition to that you can take ginger pills or other anti sea sickness medication.

If you’re feeling weepy try and keep your eyes fixed on the horizon and make sure to get fresh air. If you gotta yack, don’t hold back, sometimes its the only thing that will make you feel better.

Can I bring booze on board?

Every captain of every charter has different rules, but usually they’ll allow alcohol onboard. Just remember, unless you book a private charter you’ll probably be sharing the boat, so don’t be drunken butthead.

How to I get my fish Home?

You can get your fish home after a Whittier, Alaska fishing charter by having the fish processed and packaged at Fee’s Custom Seafoods. They can then help you arrange shipping back to your home or set you up with a airplane approved freezer box.

Should I bring Food & Water?

Every charter should have fresh water, some will have snacks, and the good ones will offer a lunch. A lot don’t do snacks or lunch though, so check with your charter company before hand. You’re gonna get hungry out there!

What should I wear?

Wear warm, waterproof and windproof layers such as a base layer, insulating layer, waterproof jacket or rain gear. wWaterproof pants or waders and slip-resistant shoes or boots are a good idea as well. Consider packing some accessories like a warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses. It’s a long day on the water, you’re gonna want to be comfortable.