Alaska Fishing Regulations & Species Overview
Note on Regulations
Fishing regulations in Alaska can change quickly based on conservation needs. We stay up to date with all current rules to ensure a safe, legal, and enjoyable experience for every trip.
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Halibut
Daily Limit: 1 fish per angler (either under 34” or over 80”)
Annual Limit: None
Closed Days: No retention on Thursdays from June 18 – September 10, 2026 (GAF halibut exempt)
Halibut fishing is strong throughout the season, with consistent action from May through September. Most of our catches fall under the 37-inch range, though larger fish over 80 inches are occasionally landed, especially early in the season. Fish sizes can vary widely, from smaller “chickens” to true giants exceeding 400 pounds. We primarily fish offshore when conditions allow for the best opportunity.
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Chinook (King) Salmon
Daily Limit: 1 per person (28” or larger)
Alaska residents: 2 per day
Annual Limit (Non-Residents):
May – June 30: 3 total
July 1 – September: 1 total
Season: May through September
King salmon are highly regulated and carefully managed. Any king salmon you retain counts toward your annual limit, even if you return later in the season. Regulations may be updated in-season, so we always stay current with Alaska Department of Fish & Game guidelines.
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Coho (Silver) Salmon
Daily Limit: 6 per person
Annual Limit: None
Season: Late June through mid-September
Silvers are one of the most exciting fisheries of the summer. Early-season fish average 6–10 pounds, while late-season fish commonly reach 10–15 pounds, with occasional trophies pushing 20 pounds.
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Rockfish (Non-Pelagic & Slope Species)
Includes species such as yelloweye, quillback, copper, and others.
Daily Limit: 1 per person (Yelloweye only)
Annual Limit: 1 per person (Yelloweye only)
Season: July 1 – August 25, 2026re
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Chum (Keta) Salmon
Daily Limit: 6 per person
Annual Limit: None
Season: Mid-July through mid-August
Chum salmon are aggressive, hard-fighting fish that show up in strong numbers some years. Typically ranging from 6–10 pounds, larger fish into the teens are possible. When caught fresh in the ocean, they also make excellent table fare.
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Lingcod
Daily Limit: 1 per day
Possession Limit: 1 fish (either 30–35” or over 55”)
Annual Limit: 2 total (1 in each size category)
Season: May 16 – June 30 & September 1 – November 30, 2026
Non-resident anglers must record all harvested lingcod immediately on their harvest record. Lingcod are powerful predators and a favorite for anglers targeting bottom fish.oes here
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Rockfish (Pelagic)
Includes species like black, blue, dusky, yellowtail, widow, and dark rockfish.
Daily Limit: 2 per person
Size Limit: None
Season: Open all season
These fish are commonly caught while targeting salmon or halibut and typically range from 3–8 pounds.
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Black Cod (Sablefish)
Daily Limit: 4 per person
Annual Limit: 8 per person
Found in deeper waters (600+ feet), black cod are prized for their rich, buttery fillets. Most fish range from 5–10 pounds, with larger fish possible.
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Salmon Shark
Daily Limit: 1 per person
Annual Limit: 2 per person
Season: Typically July through September
Salmon sharks are not commonly targeted but may be encountered during the summer months. Sizes can range from 60 to over 300 pounds.
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Pacific Cod
Daily Limit: Unlimited
Annual Limit: None
Season: Open all season
Pacific cod are often caught incidentally while fishing for halibut. They’re easy to catch and make excellent eating.
At Middle Island Lodge, our goal is to make your trip as enjoyable and memorable as possible. We’re passionate about bringing fishing and family together in one breathtaking destination. Since every guest is unique, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all experiences. If you have particular excursions in mind or want to customize any part of your Alaskan adventure, just let us know—we’re here to make your vision a reality.
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