Sitka Management Area
Fishing Opportunities

Marine waters in the Sitka management area boast excellent bottomfishing opportunities. Halibut, lingcod, and a wide variety of rockfish can be caught in the Sitka area.

Halibut catch rates improve from late spring throughout the summer and typically peak in late August. Catch rates remain high into September, until halibut move back to deeper water. The use of bait (salmon heads or viscera, herring, squid, and octopus) is a very effective attractant for halibut, as their keen sense of smell will attract them from a distance. Halibut season is open from February through the end of December.

The lingcod fishery is open between May 16th-November 30th, but be sure to check current emergency orders (http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=fishingSportFishingInfo.eonr) as mid season closures and special size restrictions are sometimes necessary to ensure the sport fishery stays within harvest limits. Adult lingcod live on or near reefs, drop offs, and steep boulder gradients in areas of high current. Lingcod have a mouthful of sharp teeth, so wire or heavy monofilament leaders are recommended to keep your line intact during the fight. Bait and visually attracting lures, such as jigs, work well to entice lingcod to bite.

Rockfish can be found throughout the year, but be sure to check current emergency orders (http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=fishingSportFishingInfo.eonr) as daily bag and possession limits are established annually. Anglers targeting rockfish should fish rocky bottoms or shoreline areas. The best fishing is from May to August. Lighter tackle is recommended to feel the subtle action of a rockfish at the end of the line. Jigs and herring are commonly used to catch rockfish. Lead-headed jigs with a worm tail can help to prevent snagging on the ocean floor.

Anglers are encouraged to use a rockfish release device when releasing non-pelagic species of rockfish. Please visit the ADF&G website for more information on deepwater release techniques and rockfish conservation (http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=fishingSportFishingInfo.rockfishconservation).

Halibut
Ling Cod
Rock Fish
Sable Fish
Shark

Begin: January 01
Ends: December 365

Before you go fishing please check the regulations.