Planning a trip to Alaska? In case you haven’t heard, there are plenty of big and delicious fish to be caught in Alaska. When you book a fishing boat charter, your guides will let you know which types of fish you can catch in Alaska—but wouldn’t you like a preview of everything you could come across?

Here are the main types of fish you can catch in the state. Ask your fishing charter guide about other opportunities that may present themselves!

Saltwater fish

• Halibut: Pacific halibut tend to be bottom dwellers, lurking hundreds of feet beneath the ocean’s surface. If you’re targeting this type of fish, you might need to be prepared for a fight. Ocean halibut can weigh hundreds of pounds—that’s a lot to reel in on any fishing boat.
• King salmon: King salmon is also known as Chinook salmon, and it’s one of the biggest—and most delicious—types of fish available. You can identify it by its blue-green spots, which run down its back. Watch out, because king salmon can weigh in at 120 pounds or more.
• Sockeye salmon: Sockeye salmon is one of the smaller salmon species, but no less delicious. They’re slimmer than other salmon, and have bright red flesh. Expect this type of salmon to weigh in at a maximum of seven pounds. If you’re disappointed with their size, don’t be: sockeye salmon are prized for their high oil content. Fishermen love picking them up when they can.
• Coho salmon: Also known as silver salmon, Coho salmon are the most likely to end up in a grocery store near you. They usually weigh around 15 pounds when fully grown, and are most often caught by commercial fishermen.

Freshwater fish

• Cutthroat trout: Cutthroat trout are named for the red color on their throats, as if someone had cut them. They’re common in southeastern streams and lakes in Alaska, and are one of the most popular game fishes in Alaska.
• Dolly Varden: This type of trout can be recognized by its grayish olive-green color on the back and sides, with light yellow spots on its body. It has an off-white belly, and it’s particularly plentiful in cold water streams and lakes.
• Rainbow trout: Rainbow trout is also known as steelhead trout—one of the fattiest and most delicious fishes on the planet. (If you think you like salmon, try real, fresh steelhead trout.) They’re a native game fish that also lives in the sea, and the promise of good rainbow trout reels in plenty of fishermen themselves.

If you’re excited about a real Alaska fishing trip, there are plenty of fish to be had. The key is to go with an expert fishing boat charter company, which can help you find the best fish to catch in Alaska.

When you are scheduling an Alaskan fishing trip, Phantom Tri-River Charters is your best destination. Call us today to learn more about our fishing trips, schedule and more. Let us help you reel in your next big catch—we look forward to seeing you soon!