Written by You’re planning your first fishing trip in Sitka, Alaska. Congrats, you’ve picked an excellent destination. Sitka is a perfect location for salmon and halibut fishing. While fishing for salmon, you may also come across many other fish, such as rockfish and lingcod. Now that you have already booked your guided saltwater fishing tour with Action Alaska Sportfishing, it’s time to pack for your big adventure. To make sure you have everything you need for an unforgettable trip (in all the good ways), we came up with this comprehensive packing list so you stay comfortable while Sitka fishing.
What Action Alaska Provides
You don’t have to bring the following items while on our fishing charter, as we will provide them upon arrival.
- All Bait Gear and Tackle
- Lunch, Snacks, Soft Drinks, and Water
- Onboard Processing to Your Specifications
- Rain Gear
Although we provide rain gear, you may want to bring your own if you plan on spending additional time in Sitka, Alaska. At an additional charge, we also provide vacuum packing and freezing.
Proper Clothing And Footwear
Even in the summer months, temperatures in Sitka, Alaska can be cool, ranging from 33 degrees F to 62 degrees F and it rarely goes above 68 degrees F. There will also be cloudy days, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring your sunscreen. If you decide to come in the winter months, brace yourself for cold temperatures.
In general, no matter what time of year you visit, we recommend wearing layers. That way, if the weather fluctuates during the day, you have the attire to prepare for the varying temperature.
For your layers, we recommend:
- Long underwear (two pairs)
- Sturdy socks
- Lightweight gloves
- T-shirts that dry quickly
- Pants that dry quickly (not jeans)
- Vest
- Heavyweight jacket
- Raincoat
- Waterproof shoes
- High-quality rain gear
- A few baseball hats and rain hats
Our pro tip for layering is never to wear cotton. Otherwise, you’re going to feel cold and uncomfortable most of the day. You should bring two pairs of long underwear: one that’s lightweight and breathable and a second pair that’s sturdier and better protects you against the cold – again, neither of them should be cotton.
In many parts of Alaska, you can experience all four seasons in a single day. So, it’s a good idea to prepare accordingly. Not only do we recommend you bring breathable, quick-dry pants, but you may also benefit from the kind that zips off into shorts in case temperatures rise (depending on what time of year you visit).
When it comes to shoes, duck boots are the best selection while traveling on our Alaska salmon fishing charter. Sneakers are a good second pair for exploring Sitka.
Don’t forget to pack warm, durable clothes when you aren’t fishing. Travel around with a small backpack full of extra clothing and miscellaneous essentials, such as sunscreen, and you will be comfortable all day.
Miscellaneous Items
Now that you know what clothing and footwear to bring, it’s important to remember all the miscellaneous items that you may easily forget but are still important. This list typically includes:
- Fishing license
- Camera and all the paraphernalia that goes with it (i.e., memory cards, charger)
- Ziploc bags to keep small items clean
- Sunglasses
- Safety goggles/protective eyewear
- Insect repellant
- Sunscreen
- Cooler (to transport your fish)
- Medication in case you get seasick
- Cash
It’s nice to come fully prepared, but don’t be alarmed if there is an item on this list that you forget. Many of these items can be purchased at a nearby sporting goods store.
Visit Action Alaska
Owned and operated by Capt. Cody Loomis, a saltwater fishing guide for over 25 years, and his wife Marlie, Action Alaska offers a personalized sportfishing experience in Alaska that you won’t forget. We are committed to upholding the highest standards in customer service, which is why over 90 percent of our bookings every year are repeat customers. While aboard the fully customized boat, “Kimshan”, you will experience at least a full day of saltwater fishing and discover the best spots for whale watching. For Sitka Fishing, contact Action Alaska. Call 907.312.1486 to book your guided fishing tour.