Fish Species Chart
Steamboat Bay sits on Noyes Island, in the heart of some of the most productive fishing grounds in the world. From powerful king salmon to steady halibut and lively schools of rockfish, the waters surrounding Noyes are renowned for their variety and consistency throughout the season. This chart highlights the species you are most likely to encounter on the water and helps you and your guide plan each day around the fish you are most excited to pursue.
King Salmon (Chinook)
King Salmon are the giants of the Pacific, powerful fish that often weigh 20 pounds or more and stretch three to four feet in length. Their strongest presence typically comes in early summer, as Kings push in from the open ocean to feed along the coast and build mass before heading toward their spawning grounds. Pound for pound, they put up an incredible fight, which is why they are among the most sought-after sport fish in the world and a true trophy catch in these waters.
Silver Salmon (Coho)
Silver Salmon arrive in strong numbers in late summer, typically peaking in July and August. Known for their speed and acrobatics, silvers average 8 to 12 pounds and often leap clear out of the water when hooked, making them one of the most exciting species to target on light tackle. When the schools are in, it is not uncommon for boats to reach daily limits in a short window, and you can work with your guide to plan the day around silvers or mix them into a broader game plan, depending on how you want to spend your time on the water.
Pacific Halibut
Pacific Halibut are the heavyweights of Southeast Alaska. Large and incredibly strong, halibut commonly reach sizes over 100 pounds, with the biggest adults in these waters growing well beyond 300 pounds. Known for their steady, determined pull, they offer a rewarding deep-water fight and some of the best table fare guests bring home from Steamboat Bay.
Lingcod
Lingcod are one of the most dramatic fish in Southeast Alaska. Though not a true cod, they belong to the greenling family and thrive along the rocky reefs near shore, with many of the larger fish caught in the same deep waters where guests target halibut. Known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, lingcod can exceed 80 pounds and reach lengths of five feet or more. Despite their impressive size, they yield a smaller percentage of edible meat, which makes every fillet that much more prized.
Pelagic Rockfish
Pelagic Rockfish are fast moving, midwater species that add steady action and fun variety to the day. Common pelagic varieties in Southeast Alaska include black, dusky, dark, widow, blue, and yellowtail rockfish. Often found in schools, they create lively bursts of excitement between salmon or halibut sets.
Yelloweye Rockfish
Yelloweye Rockfish are among the most striking species in Southeast Alaska. Averaging 10 to 15 pounds and reaching lengths of up to three feet, they are deep water dwellers known for their vivid orange color and unmistakable yellow eyes. Encountering one is always memorable and adds a moment of surprise and excitement to the day.