Anchorage 101
Behind The Ulu Factory If you came to Alaska to fish, you can wet your line right away – at Ship Creek, within walking distance from your downtown Anchorage hotel. With some luck, you can be fishing an hour after getting off your plane. This downtown clearwater stream holds king and silver salmon. The king salmon run goes from early June until mid-July. Silver salmon run from late July to late October. There’s a nice fish viewing bridge, and a walkway with platforms.
Fifteen Miles South Of Town This is a nice drive south of Anchorage. There is a spot with parking, bathrooms and a good walkway. You will want to fish on the incoming tide. Ask for advice at local fishing shops. The banks can be muddy and slippery. Bears are sometimes present, so don't fish at night – and pay attention. There is a nearby campground and a bike trail that heads south from here to Girdwood. (Photo, Buck Shreck)
Fifteen Miles North of Anchorage This fishing spot is north of Anchorage on the Glenn Highway. Turn off on the old Glenn Highway Exit and head toward Palmer. The facility is on your left with a large parking lot. There is plenty of room to fish and on a good evening it is very peaceful. Check with fishermen there for tips on lures and where to find a good spot. Fisherman will be willing to give you advice. You'll want to fish when the tide is rising. Pick up a tide book before you go.
Behind The Ulu Factory If you came to Alaska to fish, you can wet your line right away – at Ship Creek, within walking distance from your downtown Anchorage hotel. With some luck, you can be fishing an hour after getting off your plane. This downtown clearwater stream holds king and silver salmon. The king salmon run goes from early June until mid-July. Silver salmon run from late July to late October. There’s a nice fish viewing bridge, and a walkway with platforms.
Fishing In Town With People (and Bears) Slideshow
Here's a slideshow of places to fish in Anchorage. You'll find spots slightly crowded at times, and empty at others. Fishing with other people is easy. Practice courtesy and ask for advice before you truly need it. Bears are a little different. Follow these rules when fishing with bears.
When Around Bears:
1.) Walk away if they want to share your space.
2.) Keep your lunch and tackle in a backpack on your back. Don’t leave it along the bank.
3.) When you catch a salmon and clean it, chop up the discard and throw it far out into the stream.
4.) Resist the temptation to get up close and take a bear picture.
5.) Avoid walking on trials right beside streams and don't cut through thick brush to get to a stream.
The longer you stay in Alaska, the more comfortable and prepared you'll be fishing in different environments.