Article Overview: Seward Alaska Fishing Charters

Nestled amidst breathtaking mountains and the sparkling waters of Resurrection Bay, Seward offers a fishing experience unlike any other. Abundant marine life, awe-inspiring landscapes, and an active city center (for Alaska standards) make this charming town a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Seward, Alaska Fishing charters are abundant and easily accessible from the city’s centrally located small boat harbor. So if you’re looking for a unique fishing experience, look no further than Seward.

Why Trust Us Regarding Seward Alaska Fishing Charters?

AlaskaExplored is THE DESTINATION for all things Alaska. Wether you’re planning on booking a Seward, Alaska fishing charter or you’re just curious about the last frontier, we got you covered. Here at AlaskaExplored.com you’ll find expert tips, detailed guides, stunning photographs, and so much more.

Together AlaskaExplored has more than twenty years of experience traveling, working, and exploring the beautifully rugged, 49th state. Working in television has taken us all around the world, and no place more than Alaska. During our time here we’ve documented countless stories from every corner and crevasse of the state. We’ve helped showcase the grandeur of this wild place for National Geographic, Discovery, Disney, and Animal Planet. Now we want to share our knowledge and real life experiences with you! 

AlaskaExplored combines years of firsthand experience with extensive research to deliver YOU with the best knowledge to help plan your next great Alaskan adventure.

My Experience with Seward, Alaska

Long before I ever recorded a frame of video for National Geographic or Discovery channel, I came to Alaska on a high school missions trip with my church’s youth group. Fixing up old cabins and painting local firehouses was “the reason” we all went, or at least thats what I told my old man who was footing the bill.

While we did spend most of our time practicing being good Christians and doing community projects and the such; we did get an off day in Seward. I can still remember pulling into town and boarding our tour boat, I was blown away. The rocky cliffs that housed countless sea lions, the sheep clinging to the rocks above them, whales breaching right off our boat.

While I didn’t get to join any Seward, Alaska fishing charters on that trip, I have since been back countless times; for fishing or other filming related trips. That first trip will always stand out to me though, it was the first time I really experienced Alaska, I was hooked.

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Seward, Alaska Fishing Charters

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Fish Species in Seward, Alaska

If you’re planning on booking a Seward, Alaska fishing charter, you probably already know what kind of fish you’re after. But you might not know what all swims in the seas of Resurrection Bay. So by all means go after that trophy halibut, but don’t say we didn’t tell you there are plenty other fish in the sea.

Most Seward Alaska fishing charters offer full day halibut or full day salmon fishing. But if you’re like me and you want options, most charters will offer combo packages for a few more dollars. You can catch anything from the prized Pacific salmon species, such as king, silver, and sockeye, to the mighty halibut, rockfish, and lingcod.

Shore Fishing in Seward Alaska

Seward Alaska also has some great shore fishing options. Drop a line at any beach in town and you have a good chance at snagging a salmon. The rivers, lakes, and streams in the surrounding area offer even more chances to catch species like Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, or Arctic Grayling.

Head to The Fish House to grab your fishing license and any gear you might need, it’s smack dab in the middle of the harbor district. Or, you can rent whatever equipment you might need at, Adventure 60 North.

The Silver Salmon Derby

Still on my personal bucket list and a great excuse to book some Seward Alaska fishing charters, is the Silver Salmon Derby. Every August, hopeful anglers come to Seward in hopes of snagging the glory of reeling in the largest silver salmon in Resurrection Bay. Dating back to 1956, this historic derby is one of the oldest and most prominent in the state.

There are a ton of prizes that stretch over a plethora of categories like, “Heaviest from a Kayak” or “Shoreside Mystery Fish”. There are also a few tagged fish that hold a value of up to $20,000, if caught! And of course they pay out for the top 10 heaviest catches overall. Click here For a full list of last years prizes.

You can feel good about attending too, as the derby donates a portion of the proceeds to supporting fishery restoration and enhancement initiatives. It’s a pretty cool event and certainly a fun time to book Seward, Alaska fishing charters. Just make sure you do well in advance, it’s a packed party.

Halibut Fishing in Seward, Alaska

Personally, I prefer halibut over salmon, and the battle for one can be the fight of a lifetime. So if you’re on the Kenai peninsula during the summer months, consider booking halibut fishing charters in Seward, Alaska.

But don’t take my word for it, let these fish facts speak for themselves. The Pacific Halibut, or Hippoglossus stenolepis as I call it, with my pinky out while trying to impress someone, is a remarkable fish. They boast a white underside and a mottled brown topside for effective camouflage. These guys have an extraordinary lifespan that can reach upwards to 55 years, during which they can grow to legendary sizes.

While most folks won’t begin bragging about halibut size until the 100 lb mark, they won’t even reach trophy size until around 200 lbs, and even then the contenders in jackpot tournaments commonly weigh in around 300 lbs. We’re gonna need a bigger freezer.

While most halibut caught on Seward Alaska fishing charters average between 20-40 lbs, most captains would tell you, you probably have around a 1 in 10 chance at hooking a flatfish that exceed 80 lbs on Seward, Alaska halibut fishing charters. And honestly, those 20-40lb chickens are the best eating! I know everyone wants the trophy fish, but don’t knock the little guys.

Halibut Tournament*

Unfortunately the Seward Halibut Derby has been discontinued until further notice. For more information, contact the Seward Chamber of Commerce.

Seward, Alaska Fishing Charters Recommendations

Fishing Charters in Seward, Alaska are abundant and it’s not always easy picking one out. So we compiled a list of the best. These expert guides are well-versed in the best fishing spots, fishing techniques, and local regulations, guaranteeing an exceptional and safe fishing experience for all.

Seward, Alaska Fishing Charters: What Should I bring?

If you’re using our trusted fishing charters in Seward 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 halibuts about it. You’ll need a valid Alaska sport fishing license before you can legally go fishing with Seward, Alaska charters. 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.
• 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 during your Seward, Alaska fishing charter. Come prepared!
• Food and water: Some Seward, Alaska fishing charters will offer water, but many don’t provide food. Confirm with your Seward, Alaska fishing charter what exactly they offer and plan accordingly. Most will allow moderate alcohol consumption, just don’t get hammered.

Tipping your Fishing Charters in Seward, Alaska

Tipping your deckhand on Seward, Alaska fishing charters is common practice and should be expected and calculated into your costs. Some 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.

Map of Seward, Alaska Fishing Charters

Fish Processing & Shipping in Seward, Alaska

So your Seward, Alaska fishing charters were a success and you’re heading back to town with a boat load of fish. 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 Seward, Alaska fishing charters will have their deckhands clean your catch on the ride on in. Remember, to tip those guys! Once you’re in town you can take your fish, cleaned or not, to a processing company and have them do the rest of the work! Most captains will have a preferred processor they recommend, but in case they don’t go to Captain Jacks!

Then when you get you fish home, check out this super easy and super tasty halibut recipe.

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