Ketchikan charter operators to discuss new fishing rules May 21

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game will meet with charter boat operators on May 21 to discuss new sport fishing regulations for the 2026 season.

The meeting is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, in the ADF&G Conference Room at 2030 Sea Level Dr., Suite 209. All sport fishing charter operators should attend, according to a notice released May 11.

The department did not say what regulatory changes will be discussed. Kelly Reppert, Ketchikan Area Management Biologist, can answer questions at (907) 225-2859 or [email protected].

Charter fishing regulations in Ketchikan already include significant restrictions for 2026. Guided charter halibut fishing in IPHC Area 2C operates under a one-fish-per-person daily limit. Size restrictions require fish to measure under 34 inches or over 80 inches. Charter operators face Thursday no-retention days from June 18 through September 10. Anglers must hold an Alaska sport fishing license plus a $20 charter halibut stamp.

King salmon regulations add another layer of complexity. Most waters require catch and release only from April 1 through June 14. Retention opens June 15 through August 14. Residents can keep one king salmon measuring 28 inches or longer in District 1. Nonresidents face annual harvest limits of three fish through June 30 and one after that.