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Alaska is a popular destination for sport fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Sport fishing is a lifestyle for many residents of Alaska, and many fishermen dream of heading up north for the unique experience. From the Northern Pike fisheries in the interior of Alaska, to the Eastern Kenai Peninsula, there is plenty to see and do for every outdoor enthusiast. Each region of Alaska offers optimum times for targeting specific types of fish; each region is timed in cycles, and it’s important to understand the climate and weather influences of the area.

The Nine Regions for Sport Fishing in Alaska
The entire landscape of Alaska can be broken up into specific zones and regions. Each region offers its own unique and diverse set of fish. The nine regions for sport fishing in Alaska include:

• Arctic, Yukon, and Kuskokwim area
• Bristol Bay, Kodiak
• Anchorage and Matsu Valley
• Northern Southeast
• Tanana Region
• Susitna Valley
• Kenal Peninsula
• Southern Southeast
• Prince William Sound

The northern interior and arctic region of Alaska are very primitive areas, but filled with a diverse range of fisheries and fly fishing opportunities. The Tanan region lies in the heart of Alaska, and includes the communities of Tok, Delta Junction, and Fairbanks. Freshwater and saltwater fish abound in the northern southeast area of Alaska, and this area is also rich with history of the Klondike Gold Rush. Key communities of this area include Cape Suckling, Cordova, Baranof Island, Yakuta, and Skagway. Kenai Penn is a diverse community that covers the Anchorage, Matanuska Valley, and Kenai Peninsula area. This is a highly developed fishing and tourist area, offering some of the most challenging waters in the area.

Targeted Fish for Sport Fishing in Alaska
Fish types and styles vary in Alaska, and throughout the nine regions. The targeted fish of the area include:

• Rainbow trout
• Grayling
• Burbot
• Northern Pike
• Lake Trout
• Sheefish
• Whitefish
• King Salmon
• Chum Salmon
• Coho Salmon

Popular Sites and Excursions for Sport Fishing in Alaska
You’ll find a diverse range of sites and excursions to explore in the Alaska region. Sport fishing enthusiasts take part in a variety of year round activities, including Fly Fishing tournaments, Trophy Rainbow Trout excursions, and other fishing experiences. The most common fishing experiences in Alaska include:

• Sockeye Salmon Fishing
• Giant Halibut
• Fly Fishing
• Fly-Out Fishing
• Kenai River King Salmon
• Silver Salmon Fishing

King Salmon fishing is a popular choice on the Kenai River, and is famous for some of the most prized King Salmon in the world. The salmon runs at two key times of the year, and draws thousands of fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts each year. The annual return of Sockeye Salmon to the Kenai area also brings together a popular seasonal event.