Haines-Skagway Management Area
Fishing Opportunities

The Chilkat River has the third largest run of coho salmon in Southeast Alaska. The fishing is best in October, when the glacial turbidity in the Chilkat water has cleared and fish are abundant. Chum salmon are also abundant at this time. Limits for Chilkat River coho salmon 16 inches or larger are 3 daily and 6 in possession.

The Chilkoot River is also a popular coho salmon fishing site during September and October. The Chilkoot River run has been estimated to be less than 2,000 fish. Chilkoot coho salmon can reach up to 20 pounds. Limits for Chilkat River coho salmon 16 inches or larger are 2 daily and 2 in possession.

Many spin-casting anglers use orange or green pixies. Fly anglers are also successful with egg patterns and dry flies. Bait is allowed year round in Chilkat River and Chilkoot River waters.

Chilkat River fishing access is from numerous Haines Highway pullouts between milepost 4 and milepost 25, north of Haines.

Chilkoot River fishing access is along the mile-long road to the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, where there is a boat ramp and a campground. Chilkoot Lake is near the end of Lutak Road, 10 miles north of Haines and 5 miles north of the Alaska Marine Highway terminal.

Coho Salmon

Begin: September 259
Ends: November 320

Before you go fishing please check the regulations.