Last updated: February 6, 2023
Thing to Do
Fishing in Sitka
NPS Photo / Ken Beck
Fishing within Sitka National Historical Park is permitted, however to protect the integrity of the Indian River and the crucial role it plays in the spawning and subsequent life cycles of various species, there are several regulations to follow if you choose to fish in the park.
Within park boundaries, there are several species that are found in the Indian River. Four species of Pacific salmon, steelhead (or “rainbow”) and cutthroat trout, and Dolly Varden all spawn here. For more information on the species and Freshwater Monitoring Quality project please see our information page on fish.
Fishing or taking (taking, pursuing, hunting, fishing, trapping or in any manner disturbing, capturing, or killing or attempting to take, pursue, hunt, fish, trap, or in any manner, capture or kill fish or game) of pink salmon is not permitted between the Sawmill Creek Road bridge and the mouth of the Indian River. If one is caught accidentally, it must be released immediately.
Along with pink salmon, fishing or taking of chum and Coho salmon is also closed between the Sawmill Creek Road bridge and the mouth of the Indian River. King salmon may be taken, but they are extremely rare to find in the river. Other salmon species, which are also rare, are closed to fishing within the park’s established Indian River boundaries.
Please ensure if you do choose to fish, that you follow all state regulations for legal methods of capture, as well as the current state catch and size limits of various species, which are subject to change. All state regulations apply to fishing in the tidal flat area of the park as well.
All people fishing who are over the age of 16 need an Alaska state fishing license and need to carry it with them while fishing, or while intending to fish. If you are intending to fish for king salmon, are a resident over the age of 18 or a non-residents over the age of 16, you will need a separate stamp. Law enforcement may check both licenses and equipment. For more information on Alaska state fishing license requirements and options please go to Alaska Department of Fish & Game's website.
Fishing remains an ongoing tradition, a part of life in Sitka since people have inhabited the area. Please fish responsibly, following the established regulations and with a license when necessary.
Within park boundaries, there are several species that are found in the Indian River. Four species of Pacific salmon, steelhead (or “rainbow”) and cutthroat trout, and Dolly Varden all spawn here. For more information on the species and Freshwater Monitoring Quality project please see our information page on fish.
Fishing or taking (taking, pursuing, hunting, fishing, trapping or in any manner disturbing, capturing, or killing or attempting to take, pursue, hunt, fish, trap, or in any manner, capture or kill fish or game) of pink salmon is not permitted between the Sawmill Creek Road bridge and the mouth of the Indian River. If one is caught accidentally, it must be released immediately.
Along with pink salmon, fishing or taking of chum and Coho salmon is also closed between the Sawmill Creek Road bridge and the mouth of the Indian River. King salmon may be taken, but they are extremely rare to find in the river. Other salmon species, which are also rare, are closed to fishing within the park’s established Indian River boundaries.
Please ensure if you do choose to fish, that you follow all state regulations for legal methods of capture, as well as the current state catch and size limits of various species, which are subject to change. All state regulations apply to fishing in the tidal flat area of the park as well.
All people fishing who are over the age of 16 need an Alaska state fishing license and need to carry it with them while fishing, or while intending to fish. If you are intending to fish for king salmon, are a resident over the age of 18 or a non-residents over the age of 16, you will need a separate stamp. Law enforcement may check both licenses and equipment. For more information on Alaska state fishing license requirements and options please go to Alaska Department of Fish & Game's website.
Fishing remains an ongoing tradition, a part of life in Sitka since people have inhabited the area. Please fish responsibly, following the established regulations and with a license when necessary.
Details
Activity
Fishing
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are allowed on trails that start at the visitor center, but not indoors. You must keep your pet on a leash that is no more than six feet long and dispose of your pet's waste in a trash can.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Indian River
Reservations
No
Season
Summer
Time of Day
Day
Find operating hours and seasons on the park website.
Accessibility Information
Two accessible parking spaces are available in the visitor center parking lot. A paved trail with curb cuts leads to the visitor center from downtown Sitka. Accessible restrooms, a lowered water fountain, and an extended picnic table are available outside the visitor center. The trail to Indian River is generally six feet wide, relatively flat, and paved with crushed gravel.