We guarantee you will enjoy sportfishing and the thrill of a fight with many of the fish in Ketchikan’s waters. The black rockfish is a very aggressive species that can put up a great fight. They are also readily available in the deeper waters around Ketchikan. You can also find other types of rockfish in shallower waters, which are less aggressive and won’t be intimidated. Pick your adventure!
Rockfish Types
Alaska waters are home to approximately 30 species of rockfish. The average age of mature rockfish is between 4 and 140 years. They can weigh anywhere from 1 to 30 pounds. Averaging between 1-10 lbs. is the average size of a rockfish caught over 100 feet. Larger rockfish are usually caught at deeper depths, ranging between 100′ and 2000′. There are many sizes and shapes of rockfish. We have all kinds of rockfish, from black to bright orange to stripes. There are two types of rockfish: non-pelagic and pelagic. Pelagic rockfish are black, brown, dusky and widow. These six species can be found in a variety of colors, including black, green, brown and brown. Non-pelagic rockfish are those not listed as pelagic. They mainly consist of quillback, yelloweye and copper species.
Rockfish are aggressive feeders, but they are very easy to catch if not hung up on the bottom. These bottom dwellers can be caught by hitting bottom, reeling up a few cranks and jigging it several times. Then, find the bottom again, reel in a few cranks, jig, and then repeat the process. Keep looking for the bottom, but don’t drag it. Our bottoms are very rocky, irregular, with vertical cliffs and ledges, boulders and holes. Sometimes, the bottom depth can change by 50 feet in a matter of minutes. This is what bottom rockfish love. You can easily catch rockfish at lower depths without any problems.
Ketchikan Fishing Charters
Anglers Adventures & Outfitters is locally owned by a Ketchikan resident who has nearly 30 years’ experience as a guide. This beautiful area of Ketchikan, Alaska, is perfect for beginners, families with children, and even groups with more experienced fishermen. Our most popular private charter service targets rockfish. All gear, bait, tackle, and lures are included in the one-per-person price. Half-day charters cost $175 per person for four hours of fishing with 4-6 people, and $350 per person for an entire day of 8-10 hours fishing. For a unique experience, call Captain Brian Ringeisen and his team at Anglers Adventures and Outfitters to book a trip to Alaska.