Yakutat Management Area
Fishing Opportunities

Situk River Dolly Varden


Description

Dolly Varden char are abundant in the Situk River system. During spring months the fish head downstream from their overwintering habitats to feed on salmon fry. Anglers have great success catching fish up to 4 lbs using fry imitation lures and flies. In the summer months, after salmon spawn, dollies will move in to feed on salmon eggs. Egg imitation lures and flies can be very effective behind spawning salmon. It is not uncommon to see hundreds of dollies in some salmon spawning riffles. In October, dollies begin to head upstream to their own spawning tributaries, at which time they turn bright spawning colors of gold, green, and red. Anglers can find Dolly Varden up until the river freezes over.

Tackle

- Salmon fry pattern flies

- Small silver spoons or spinners

- Salmon egg patterns or beads as flies or drifted with casting gear

 

Getting There

Most good dolly fishing is in the upper and middle sections of the Situk River. This area is accessed via Forest Highway 10, leading 9 miles from Yakutat to the 9 Mile Bridge on the Situk River. Shore anglers can walk up and down stream from there, or boat anglers can float down 14 miles to the lower landing boat ramp.

Species

Dates

Begin: April 91
Ends: October 304

Regulations

Before you go fishing please check the regulations.