What to Pack for a Ketchikan Fishing Trip: Captain’s Ultimate Checklist
Author: Captain Lukas
Head Captain for Ketchikan Fishing Company & Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters
Hey there—I’m Captain Lukas. I’ve spent over 20 years guiding anglers in places like Alaska, Hawaii, and even the Bahamas. But there’s no place quite like Ketchikan. Every summer, I’m out on the water daily helping guests reel in halibut, kings, rockfish—you name it.
Over the years, I’ve seen it all when it comes to packing. Some folks show up ready for anything. Others… well, not so much. So I put together this guide to help you know exactly what to pack for a Ketchikan fishing trip—nothing more, nothing less.
Quick Answer: What to Pack for a Ketchikan Fishing Trip
Bring:
Waterproof jacket
Layered clothing (non-cotton)
Waterproof boots or grippy shoes
Polarized sunglasses
Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Camera or GoPro
Snacks and refillable water bottle
Alaska fishing license (with king stamp if needed)
Daypack or dry bag
Let’s break that down…
1. Waterproof Jacket or Rain Gear
Let me get this out of the way: Ketchikan is in a rainforest. Even if the day starts sunny, chances are we’ll see some mist or rain out there.
What to look for:
Gore-Tex or similar waterproof fabric
Adjustable hood
Breathable (don’t bring a plastic poncho from a drugstore)
Captain’s Tip: Umbrellas don’t work on boats. Trust me—pack a real rain jacket.
2. Layered Clothing: Alaska-Style
Our weather can go from warm and sunny to cold and windy within the same hour. Layers are your best friend.
Recommended Layers:
Moisture-wicking base layer (avoid cotton)
Mid-layer fleece or hoodie
Waterproof or windproof shell
Lightweight gloves (great for early mornings)
Avoid:
Jeans (cold and heavy when wet)
Bulky ski jackets
3. Waterproof Footwear with Grip
You’ll be standing on a wet deck at some point. Don’t let slippery shoes ruin your day—or worse, cause a fall.
Good options:
XTRATUF boots (Alaska classic)
Waterproof hiking shoes
Non-slip boat shoes (closed-toe)
Avoid:
Flip-flops
Slippery sneakers
4. Polarized Sunglasses
These are a must-have. They cut glare, help you spot fish, and protect your eyes from flying hooks.
Captain’s Tip:
You’ll see a lot more wildlife with polarized lenses—bald eagles, whales, seals, even your fish before it hits the net.
5. Sun Protection—Yes, Even in Alaska
Don’t let the cool breeze fool you—UV rays reflect off the water and can burn you fast.
Pack this:
Reef-safe sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Hat with a brim
Lightweight neck gaiter or buff
6. Camera or GoPro
Whether it’s your first halibut or a pod of orcas cruising by, you’ll want to capture it.
Captain’s Tip:
Use a waterproof phone case or dry bag—boats splash more than you’d think.
7. Snacks, Water & Motion-Sickness Prevention
Even if your charter includes drinks, it’s smart to bring your own fuel.
Bring:
Refillable water bottle
Granola bars, jerky, or trail mix
Ginger chews or Dramamine (even calm waters can sneak up on people)
8. Your Alaska Fishing License
Everyone 16 and older needs a valid Alaska fishing license. If you’re hoping to catch a king salmon, you’ll also need a king salmon stamp.
Get it ahead of time at:
Alaska Department of Fish & Game
Or ask me—I’m happy to help you through it before we launch.
9. A Small Daypack or Dry Bag
Perfect for keeping snacks, extra layers, and valuables organized and dry.
Bonus if it’s waterproof, but even a compact backpack works great.
10. Optional (But Nice to Have)
Hand warmers (especially in May or early June)
Binoculars (whale/bear spotting)
Notebook or travel journal
Extra socks (wet feet = miserable trip)
Ketchikan Fishing Trip Packing List Recap
| Item | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|
| Waterproof jacket | Keeps you dry from rain and spray |
| Layered clothing | Adapts to Alaska’s changing weather |
| Grippy boots or shoes | Safety and comfort on wet decks |
| Polarized sunglasses | Glare protection + fish spotting |
| Sunscreen + SPF balm | UV reflects off the water |
| Camera or GoPro | Capture your epic catch |
| Snacks + water | Stay fueled and hydrated |
| Fishing license | Legally required |
| Dry bag/backpack | Keep gear safe and organized |
What We Provide (So You Don’t Have To)
When you book with Ketchikan Fishing Company or Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters, we’ve got you covered:
- Top-of-the-line rods and reels
- All bait and tackle
- Professional fish cleaning & packaging
- Shipping your fish home from Ketchikan
- New boats with a covered cabin
- Expert guidance, every step of the way
Final Word from the Captain
The guests who have the best time? They’re not the ones with the fanciest gear. They’re the ones who come prepared for anything and open to everything. That’s the secret to a great day on the water.
Ready to reel in a memory you’ll never forget?
Book your Ketchikan fishing charter here!
FAQs: Ketchikan Fishing Trip Packing
We provide water, soda and various snacks on all of our Ketchikan fishing charters. Please bring any additional snacks you wish to have while fishing.
- Expert USCG licensed captain/ Alaska Sportfishing guide
- All fishing gear, tackle, and bait (included in combination Wildlife + Fishing Tour)
- Water, soda and snacks
- Rain ponchos and rain gear
- Coast Guard approved safety equipment
- Enclosed cabin with porta-potty and privacy curtain
- Delivery of catch to fish processor (included in combination Wildlife + Fishing Tour)
- Alaska sport fishing license for anyone age 16 years and up. This is needed for the combination Wildlife + Fishing Tour. Purchase at https://store.adfg.alaska.gov/
- City sales tax and processing fee
- Gratuity for a job well done – Industry standard is 10-20%. Not required but always appreciated.
- Fish processing and shipping for combination Wildlife + Fishing Tour. Prices based on fileted weight and range from $7-15/lb.
Time and experience! Wildlife Tours from downtown Ketchikan brings the best of both worlds. Your guide meets you right at your cruise ship berth or downtown harbor and your off to the fishing and wildlife grounds immediately. This in comparison saves you 30 minutes to one hour compared to fishing outside of town where you have to attempt to arrange your own transport to take a bus or taxi ride 30 minutes north or south. Why waste time in a cab when you can be whisked away to the most productive fishing grounds instantly.
Rain or shine it’s best to plan for the rain. Ketchikan’s located in the Tongass National Forest which averages thirteen feet of rain a year. With that being said we do have magically sunny days or light overcast days without rain. Dressing for the rain allows you to shed layers as needed and be prepared for any weather.
There is a marine portapotty onboard with privacy curtains.
Yes! This tour is specifically built for families visiting Ketchikan. Experience wildlife viewing and fishing in calm waters with expert guides. Our guides are well versed to teach your family step by step instructions in a safe and fun environment. In addition to the wildlife safari, whale watching and eagle feeding.
Kids under the age of 16 must wear a life jacket at all times on the boat. We supply and outfit each child before departing the dock with the necessary floatation device. Adults are not required to wear a life jacket while onboard but they are always readily available life jackets for all persons.
We do not add anyone to your charter group. We only run privately guided charters so we can consistently exceed your groups expectations. Our private guided charter experience allows us to plan the entire trip with you in mind and this allows us to allocate the correct time per species at your request. Based on years of experience this is the only way to provide an authentic Alaska charter fishing experience. We have 4 boats that can hold 6 guests each. Feel free to contact us if you need help with booking for larger parties.
While there’s always a chance one can get seasick when at sea, this tour provides crabbing and fishing in calm waters. Specifically we avoid rough waters to ensure your family is safe and comfortable on this Ketchikan tour.
Yes, this tour is perfect for cruise ship guests visiting Ketchikan. Built with families in mind who visit Ketchikan by cruise ship. This tour offers it all in a safe and fun environment. Cruise ship guests have the option of multiple departure times that best suit your group’s arrival and departure times.