Juneau Management Area
Fishing Opportunities

In April, May and June anglers fish for Dolly Varden as they move into Gastineau Channel to feed on salmon fry. After overwintering in Juneau lakes, Dolly Varden begin their annual migration to saltwater when the lakes begin to thaw in early April. They migrate to saltwater to take advantage of an abundant food source (salmon fry). These juvenile salmon emerge from local streams and migrate to saltwater in the spring. Dolly Varden can be found all along Gastineau Channel from April through June trying to intercept these juvenile salmon.

Anglers targeting Dolly Varden in Gastineau Channel in the Spring typically use small spinners, spoons or flies that imitate juvenile salmon.

Anglers wishing to target aggressive Dolly Varden in Gastineau Channel have access points located at Sheep Creek, under the Juneau-Douglas Bridge, Salmon Creek, Lemon Creek and in North Douglas at 5-mile and 9-mile trailheads.

Dolly Varden

Begin: April 91
Ends: June 181

Before you go fishing please check the regulations.