How to Dress for an Alaskan Charter: Tips from Fishability Alaska

Blue skies and calm seas on a dreamy day in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Planning a cruise to Alaska? You’re undoubtedly looking forward to breathtaking views, incredible wildlife encounters, and maybe even reeling in a Pacific salmon or two! If your cruise brings you to Ketchikan and you’re considering a fishing charter or wildlife tour, here’s what you need to know about preparing for the weather!

Weather in Ketchikan: Be Ready for Anything

Ketchikan rests on a mountainous island in a temperate rainforest in the North Pacific Ocean, which means one thing: we get some weather! You’ll hear plenty about the rain while planning your trip, and even more once you’re here. (Like humans everywhere, we in Alaska sure do love to talk about our weather.)

But don’t worry—it’s not all drizzle and gray skies. Ketchikan also has beautiful days: blue skies, calm waters, and bright sunshine. More than once, I’ve joked with clients about the unexpected need for sunscreen in Alaska—which I always carry on the boat, by the way! Still, it doesn’t hurt to bring a bottle of your own.

Dressing for Your Charter: Layers Are Key

How should you dress for your fishing charter or wildlife tour with Fishability Alaska? The answer is simple: layers, layers, layers!

Southeast Alaska is where mountains, the rainforest, and the ocean come together, creating many micro-climates. Weather can change quickly, especially on the water. Even on warmer days, it’s smart to wear layers. If the breeze picks up (which is common even when sunny), it can cool the air considerably. On bright days, a long-sleeve shirt and a hat can protect your skin from the sun.

Here’s what I typically wear on a cool day:

• Wool socks and rubber boots

• Long johns and rugged work pants

• Thermal long-sleeve, undershirt, t-shirt, heavy outer shirt (like flannel or a hoodie)

• Wool hat or baseball cap

On a warmer day, I swap big boots for deck boots and ditch the long johns. Everything else stays—I never know how the day’s weather will unfold!

Accessibility and Comfort Onboard

At Fishability Alaska, we believe that wildlife and fishing are for everyone. That’s why our boat is wheelchair accessible, with adaptive fishing gear to make sure that all guests, including those with disabilities, can enjoy the experience. Our tours are designed to accommodate a wide range of mobility needs, and we’re proud to be IBCCES-certified.

Whether you’re out spotting humpback whales or reeling in a fish, our spacious cabin offers a comfortable space to warm up or stay dry. You can relax inside while keeping an eye on wildlife or your fishing line.

Safety Comes First

Rain never shuts down our tours, but heavy, sustained winds can. If winds reach a point where safe operation isn’t possible, we may need to delay or cancel a tour. If a cancellation happens, your booking will be fully refunded, and we’ll let you know as soon as possible, so that you might find other adventures on shore.

Safety is always our top priority, but we don’t mind fishing in a little rough weather from time to time. We look forward to seeing you out on the water!

Book your adventure today at FishabilityAlaska.com/excursions.

Cheers, Captain Jack