HOONAH FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Into the Wild: Stream Fishing Chichagof Island’s Hidden Rivers
A five-hour guided fishing excursion from Hoonah that takes anglers into remote streams on Chichagof Island to chase salmon and trout under the eye of an expert guide.
Into the Wild: Stream Fishing Chichagof Island’s Hidden Rivers.
The Great Outdoors excursion is a five‑hour journey from Hoonah onto Chichagof Island’s wild spine, guided by a veteran angler with more than three decades of backcountry experience. You’ll leave the cruise crowds behind and seek hidden edgewaters where salmon and trout run, brown bears patrol the banks, and eagles hang on the thermals—this is fishing as a return to Alaska’s last wild places.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Bears, Eagles, and Untamed Rivers
Chichagof Island is a working wild: brown bears frequent the banks and eagles wheel overhead as you fish waters few people ever see. Your guide’s decades of local knowledge amplify every wildlife moment and help keep the day safe and memorable.
Luxury Transport Into the Backcountry
The trip begins with pickup at the cruise port and a scenic ride into the island’s backcountry in a Mercedes van or comparable vehicle—comfort and space until you reach the river edge and step into the wild.
Two to Three Hours of Focused Stream Time
Whether you cast a fly or spin a reel, expect 2–3 hours on secluded streams targeting salmon and trout. The operation emphasizes small groups, catch‑and‑release stewardship, and instruction for anglers of differing experience.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
From a cruise‑port pickup the day moves swiftly: a scenic drive into forested backcountry, a short gear‑up and safety briefing, then 2–3 hours of fishing in streams that feel untouched—interspersed with light hiking, wildlife viewing, and the constant presence of old‑growth trees and rushing water—before a relaxed return with snacks, spring water, and a cold local brew for those 21 and over.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who belongs on this trip and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion runs approximately five hours, with 2–3 hours spent actively fishing on streams.
Participants are outfitted with rods, reels, and waders; the trip also includes Alaskan snacks, spring water, and craft brews for guests 21+.
Expect some light hiking along stream banks; guides provide a quick safety briefing before fishing.
Guests ride from the cruise port in a Mercedes Van, Suburban LTZ, or Yukon Denali into the island’s backcountry.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the outing?
The Great Outdoors excursion is a five‑hour trip.
Where do we meet?
Meeting and pickup are at ISP/Hoonah on Chichagof Island, Alaska.
What species will we target?
The trip targets salmon and trout in remote streams.
Is gear provided?
Yes—guides outfit participants with rods, reels, and waders and give a safety briefing before fishing.
How much fishing time is there?
Plan for roughly 2–3 hours of on‑stream fishing during the excursion.
Will we see wildlife?
Wildlife encounters are part of the experience—brown bears and eagles frequent the riverbanks and surrounding forests.