Two humpback whales break the surface as they feed by bubble netting.

EXCURSIONS

WILDLIFE & SIGHTS

Saltwater drips off the tail of a humpback whale, as it dives.

SALMON FISHING

CUSTOM CHARTERS

A tree-lined, rocky point juts out into ocean water, with snow-capped mountains visible in the middle distance.

Book an Adventure

ABOUT FISHABILITY ALASKA

...and meet Captain Jack Finnegan

Getting out on the water is a crucial component of life here in Southeast Alaska. Whether you wish to go fishing, hope to encounter marine wildlife, or simply wish to explore the scenic coastlines of Ketchikan, our mission at Fishability Alaska is to make these adventures accessible to everyone.

Our custom boat was built to be more accessible. We carry adaptive fishing equipment for those who may have need. And Captain Jack has spent over ten years working in the service of people with disabilities. He is eager to get you on board, and to make you feel at home!

How should we dress?

In layers! Rainy days are cooler, with summer temperatures averaging in the 50s to 60s. Sunny days are usually breezy, but it's typically cooler on the water. Rain gear is strongly recommended.
Does the water get rough?

Our waters are well-protected, but stiff winds sometimes whip up some chop. We can usually find calmer waters, though. Winds above 20 knots are unusual in the summertime, but if bad weather leads to a cancellation, you will receive a refund.
What might we catch on a fishing charter?

All five species of Pacific salmon can be found in the waters of Ketchikan, though the run of each species peaks at different times of the season. King salmon—also known as chinook—are the most prized, but also have the greatest restrictions. Usually, we troll for salmon—a technique that can also yield lingcod, greenling, Pacific cod, pollock, and various species of rockfish. If you catch fish that you wish to have processed and shipped, we can arrange that for you—though this service is provided by another company, with their own pricing schedules. We do not yet offer halibut charters at Fishability, as these trips require a charter halibut permits, or CHP. No new CHPs have been issued since 2010 making these highly-desired permits extremely expensive. As a startup, we are not yet in a position to secure a CHP.
How much are fishing licenses?

Daily fishing licenses cost $15 per person. Anglers under the age of 16 do not need to purchase a license. An additional $15 stamp is required for the retention of king salmon. No stamp is needed for the retention of silver salmon, pink salmon, chum salmon, or sockeye salmon. Anglers under 16 do not require king stamps. Bring kids! All proceeds from fishing licenses go to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. You can purchase your license from us on the day of your trip, but we recommend that you purchase your license in advance. Click here to visit the Alaska Fish & Game online store.
Do you have a bathroom on board?

We have a portable marine toilet, and we can provide privacy and comfort if the need arises for relief. But we do not have a fully-enclosed bathroom.
No one in our party has a disability. Can we still book?

Of course! We built Fishability to make ocean excursions accessible to everybody, not exclusive to anybody. We are proud to be increasing access to Ketchikan's waters. But above all, we love sharing the beauty and the adventure of our water with all people—and we'd love to meet you.
I use a mobility device, but my ship is tendering/lightering. Can I still book?

This will depend on your ship's ability to accommodate your mobility device on the vessels they use to transport passengers to shore. Best that you give us a call or send us an email, and we'll work through this with you.