Guard Island is a small, rocky island in Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage with limited but real fishing opportunity for halibut and rockfish

Guard Island sits in Clarence Strait, roughly 30 miles south of Ketchikan, and serves as a waypoint rather than a destination in the traditional sense. The island itself is mostly rock and sparse vegetation, with a small cabin and dock that see seasonal use. Most anglers reach it by charter boat from Ketchikan or Metlakatla, and the fishing grounds around it—particularly the rocky reefs and drop-offs nearby—hold halibut, lingcod, and various rockfish species. The island is not a lodge or resort; it is a staging point for day trips or a place to anchor overnight if you have your own vessel.

Access is weather-dependent. Clarence Strait can run rough, and the season for comfortable travel is May through September. Winter storms make the crossing hazardous, and many charter operators do not run trips during the colder months. If you are planning a trip, build in flexibility for weather delays and confirm with your charter operator what the current conditions are before you commit.

Key Takeaways

  • Guard Island is reached by charter boat from Ketchikan or Metlakatla and is used mainly as a fishing base for halibut and rockfish, not as a lodge destination.
  • The best fishing window is May through September, when weather in Clarence Strait is most stable and charter operators run regular trips.
  • You will need an Alaska fishing license and must follow state saltwater regulations for halibut and rockfish, including size and bag limits that change by species.
  • Charter boats typically provide tackle, bait, and knowledge of the local reefs and drop-offs where fish concentrate, making this a good option if you do not have your own vessel.
  • The island has minimal facilities; bring layers, rain gear, and seasickness medication, as the boat ride can be rough even on moderate-weather days.

Halibut and Rockfish Around the Island

Halibut is the primary target. The reefs and rocky structure around Guard Island create the depth changes and current breaks that halibut use to hunt. Fish here range from small "chickens" (under 20 pounds) to fish over 100 pounds, though the average keeper is 30 to 60 pounds. Halibut bite year-round in these waters, but May through August sees the most consistent action and the largest fish.

Rockfish—including yelloweye, canary, and quillback—are abundant on the same structure. They are easier to catch than halibut and provide fast action if the halibut bite is slow. Alaska's rockfish regulations require you to release yelloweye and canary rockfish in most Southeast waters, but quillback and other species have bag limits. Check the current Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations before you fish, as rules change and vary by area.

Lingcod also inhabit the rocky bottom and are aggressive feeders. They grow large—fish over 40 pounds are not uncommon—and provide excellent sport on medium tackle. Lingcod season and bag limits also vary, so confirm current rules with your charter operator or the state before you go.

Charter Operators and Getting There

Ketchikan is the main jumping-off point. Several charter operators run trips to Guard Island and the surrounding waters, typically departing in the early morning and returning by late afternoon or evening. The boat ride is roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on sea state and which fishing grounds your captain chooses. Expect to pay between $250 and $400 per person for a full-day charter, though prices vary by operator and season.

Metlakatla, a smaller community on Annette Island about 15 miles south of Ketchikan, also has charter operators who run to Guard Island. The ride from Metlakatla is shorter, which can mean more time on the water fishing. Both towns have lodging, restaurants, and tackle shops where you can pick up last-minute supplies or get local advice on conditions.

If you have your own boat, Guard Island is reachable by private vessel, though you should be experienced in Alaska coastal navigation and familiar with tidal currents in Clarence Strait. The island has a small dock, but space is limited and weather can change quickly. Many private boaters use Guard Island as a waypoint while exploring the broader Inside Passage.

Licenses, Regulations, and Seasons

You must have a valid Alaska saltwater fishing license. Non-residents can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website or at tackle shops in Ketchikan. A one-day license costs roughly $20 to $25, depending on the current year's pricing. Most charter operators will confirm you have a license before departure, and some can help you purchase one if you do not already have it.

Halibut has a bag limit of one fish per day in most Southeast Alaska waters, with a minimum size of 32 inches. Rockfish limits and species restrictions change frequently, so review the current Southeast Alaska saltwater regulations on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website before you fish. Lingcod has a bag limit of three fish per day, with a minimum size of 24 inches.

The fishing season around Guard Island runs year-round, but practical access is May through September. Winter storms make the crossing dangerous, and many charter operators do not run trips from November through April. If you are planning a winter trip, contact operators directly to see if they are running; some do offer trips during calmer winter windows, but availability is sporadic.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Dress in layers. Southeast Alaska weather is unpredictable, and the temperature on the water is often 10 to 15 degrees cooler than on land. Bring a waterproof rain jacket, fleece or wool layers, and warm socks. Gloves are useful, especially if you are fishing in spring or fall. Sunscreen and a hat are essential in summer, when daylight lasts nearly 20 hours and the sun reflects off the water.

Seasickness medication is worth considering. The boat ride to Guard Island crosses open water, and even moderate swells can cause discomfort. Dramamine, ginger supplements, or prescription patches all work for different people; try what works for you before the trip. Eat a light breakfast before departure and avoid heavy meals or alcohol the night before.

Bring a camera or phone with a good battery. The scenery around Guard Island and Clarence Strait is dramatic, and you will want to document the trip. Most charter boats have a small cabin or shelter, but bring a dry bag for electronics and valuables. Your charter operator will provide fishing tackle and bait, but if you have favorite lures or rigs, bring them along—charter captains are usually happy to use your gear if you prefer.

Nearby Communities and Lodging

Ketchikan is the largest nearby town and has the most lodging and restaurant options. Hotels range from budget chains to mid-range properties, and there are several bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals. Most charter operators are based in or near Ketchikan and can arrange lodging packages or point you toward places that work for your budget. Ketchikan also has a small airport with connections to Juneau and Seattle, making it the main entry point for most visitors.

Metlakatla is quieter and smaller, with fewer lodging options but a strong sense of community. It is home to the Metlakatla Indian Community, and the town has cultural sites and museums worth exploring if you have time before or after your fishing trip. A few lodges and bed-and-breakfasts operate there, and the town has a grocery store and a couple of restaurants.

Both towns are accessible by floatplane or ferry from Juneau or other Southeast Alaska communities. If you are planning a multi-day trip, consider spending a night in Ketchikan before your Guard Island charter to adjust to the time zone and confirm your booking with the operator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own boat to fish at Guard Island?

No. Most anglers reach Guard Island by charter boat from Ketchikan or Metlakatla. Charter operators provide the boat, tackle, and local knowledge. If you have your own vessel and are experienced in Alaska coastal navigation, you can reach the island independently, but charter is the standard and safest option for most visitors.

What is the best time of year to fish Guard Island?

May through August offers the most consistent fishing and stable weather. Halibut bite year-round, but summer months see larger fish and more reliable access. September is still good but weather becomes less predictable. Winter fishing is possible but charter availability is limited and sea conditions are rough.

How much does a charter trip to Guard Island cost?

Full-day charters typically run $250 to $400 per person, depending on the operator and season. Some operators offer half-day trips for less. Prices may include tackle and bait but usually do not include lodging or meals. Contact operators in Ketchikan or Metlakatla for current pricing and what is included in their trips.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes, within Alaska's bag and size limits. You can keep one halibut per day (minimum 32 inches), three lingcod per day (minimum 24 inches), and certain rockfish species. Some rockfish must be released. Your charter captain will know the current rules and can help you keep fish that are legal and help you release those that are not.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?

Most charter operators will reschedule your trip to the next available day if conditions are unsafe. Confirm the operator's weather policy when you book. Bring flexibility into your schedule if you are planning a Guard Island trip, as Southeast Alaska weather can change quickly and trips are sometimes delayed by a day or two.