Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing in Southeast AK
Experience the natural beauty of our 49th state when you visit us at Yes Bay Lodge. Sitting on a breathtaking location just off British Columbia, our lodge is perfect for freshwater and saltwater fishing in Southeast Alaska. With prime saltwater fishing spots just a 20-minute boat ride away, we are the destination for amateur fishermen, pros, and everyone in between. Let our guides take you where the fish are always biting, and discover the fishing that Yes Bay Lodge is famous for!
Fishing around Yes Bay Lodge is defined as an almost religious experience, and for a good reason. Our location is just 10 minutes from the mouth of the Bay, where you’ll find countless species of salmon, halibut, ling cod, and rock fish. We are the only Alaska lodge that features 2-4 anglers per private boat, ensuring you receive personal attention throughout your trip.
Our Vessels
For decades, Yes Bay Lodge has used custom-built, canopy-covered Olympic boats. At twenty feet in length and powered by 90 HP Yamaha four strokes, they are designed for two-angler comfort and fishing efficiency. An 8 HP Yamaha kicker engine is used for trolling.
In 2014, we started replacing our fleet of Olympics with custom-built Silver Streaks, which are aluminum, hardtop boats for your fishing comfort. They operate with 150 HP Mercury motors and are the ultimate 2-3 person fishing machine.
By popular demand, Yes Bay Lodge also has three four-angler vessels in the fleet. In 2008, the lodge added a beautiful 27-foot Boston Whaler. Powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha outboards, it can get you to the fishing grounds in a hurry and in comfort. In 2021, a 26-foot Hewescraft rounded out the fleet, and it was such a hit with guests, that we added a second Hewescraft in 2022. These boats are designed to fish up to four anglers with ease and can carry up to six people for sightseeing trips. They are great for families with children, as well.
Our Gear
Your guide will be utilizing Ugly Stick salmon rods and smooth, dependable Penn reels for trolling. Stout Ugly Stick halibut rods and Penn reels are the tools you’ll use for large bottom fish. You also have the option of setting traps for Dungeness Crab and Alaskan Spot Prawns, which you may either pack home or have prepared as an extra course with dinner (we recommend both!). With only 2-4 anglers per private boat, your captain will tailor your trip to assure your ideal fishing adventure.
A Typical Day at Yes Bay Lodge
Your tour begins in your hometown with flights to arrive in Ketchikan, Alaska, no later than 4:30 p.m. A Pirate Airworks representative will meet you at the airport and transport you and your luggage down to the dock, where you will board one of our float planes for the short 30-minute scenic flight to the lodge.
When you arrive at the lodge, our crew will greet you at the dock and assist you with your luggage. You’ll get checked in with the office and settled into your room in time for a wonderful dinner. You’ll also meet your guide and discuss your goals to make your Alaska Adventure everything you want. Our team strives to custom tailor your experience to surpass your expectations.
We offer saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut, rock fish and other species. You may choose to spend a day or half day freshwater fishing in one of the local streams, or you can opt to fly to one of the high mountain lakes in the area for some fishing or hiking. There are also trips to local hot springs and the hatchery for bear viewing during the season. Discuss your goals with your guide – we are here to help you realize your Alaska dreams!
Your Day on the Water
Breakfast: Hot breakfast is served in the lodge dining room starting at 6:30 a.m. Coffee and a cold breakfast buffet is available at 5:30 a.m.
Your Trip Starts: Head down to the dock to meet your guide and head out for your day’s planned saltwater fishing activities before 7:30 a.m. Please note that boats cannot leave the dock until after 7:00 a.m. Your guide will have the day planned out based on your preferences and the fish that are available, choosing to fish for certain species based on tides, location, and weather.
In for Lunch: If you have chosen to return to the lodge for a hot lunch, you will return at 11:30 a.m. Our dock crew will take pictures, and your guide will clean your fish while you enjoy a hot lunch in the dining room. After lunch, you return to the dock to meet your guide for afternoon fishing.
Stay Out for Lunch: If you have chosen to stay out for lunch and maximize your fishing time, you will pull into a quiet cove for some protection and enjoy your ordered lunch. Of course, if the fishing is hot, you are free to keep your lines in the water and eat while you fish!
End of Day: Your fishing day ends at 5:00 p.m., when all boats are required to return to the dock. After pictures, you will have plenty of time to get back up to the lodge to freshen up before “Happy Hour” in the lounge, where you are rewarded with a delightful appetizer buffet while enjoying your favorite glass of wine, cocktail or soft drink.
Dinner: At about 6:30 p.m., your server will invite you to the dining room for a wonderful three-course dinner. Afterward, relax on the deck, enjoy the view of Yes Bay with your favorite after-dinner glass of wine, cocktail, or soft drink, while sharing your day’s fishing tales with newfound friends.
Contact us to schedule a visit to our lodge for your fishing experience. Located north of Ketchikan, Alaska, we welcome visitors from throughout the globe to experience our world-class fishing.
