New to Forum- Kayak Fisher from Alaska

[Kardinal_84]

Originally Posted by walrus

I'll be up that way in May for two weeks. I'll have one free day on this trip to go off fishing. My choices to take this day will be at Copper River, Kenai, or Skagway. I'll also be in Fairbanks, but I'll only have a evening free there.

Which place would be my best choice, what would I be targeting at that time, and is there fishing kayak rentals including gear at any of these places?

If I could switch the Skagway stop, for a Ketchikan stop would that be a better opportunity?

Thanks

Well that's a tough one. Been contemplating it since I got it. I think the only fair answer is...I dunno.

So here's how I reached that conclusion... As likely is the case anywhere, fishing is weather dependent. Frankly if I had to pick the location in advance, things like secondary activity and typical weather conditions would be more of a factor than "how's the fishing." Anyone of the places at the right time and place can result in a once in a life time day.

So first, I know nothing about skagway.

Ketchikan seems like the best spot for variety. Let's just say its on my bucket list ahead of a lot more exotic locations. THE man in Ketchikan is Howard McKim. He doesn't do much fish guiding anymore, more eco tourism stuff. But he would know a lot about that area.

Copper River. The first of the salmon run will be coming in but seems a tad early for any decent results. This would be a road side fishery mainly for sockeyes and maybe a shot at kings. Can't say I fish that way much...especially in May.

Kenai...Well this place I know a bit about. Went K-12 in Kenai. Kardinal_84 is a reference to the Kenai Kardinal (High School, and yeah we can't spell) class of 1984.

May is going to be a great time for shallow water halibut and possible feeder king salmon in Lower Cook Inlet or Kachemak Bay. Lower Kenai River will be shut down for King Salmon. Upper and Middle for Trout spawning protection.

What do you mean when you say you have a "day". Do you have to decide in advance?

Well sorry I can't be of much help. Alaska is so dang big that its sort of like saying "Hey, you live in Canada? I'm headed there, where's the best fishing?" But I am more than willing to help.

So if you could answer those questions. Also are you looking to charter? Kayak fish? Anything fish? C&R or release in grease kinda guy? I'm definitely the latter.

If you can get out, it should be a great time of year for you.