Heavy Rain Slows Down Situk River Steelhead Fishing

The following is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:

• Yakutat Fishing Report

April 10, 2025

Freshwaters

Steelhead Trout

Fishing for steelhead on the Situk River is just starting up. Anglers have observed groups of fish spread out throughout the river. Prior to last weekend, the Situk had been experiencing very low water levels which made fishing difficult. The rain arrived last weekend as expected, but it’s turned into one of those “be careful what you wish for” scenarios. It’s basically been raining/sleeting ever since and both air and water temperatures have dropped making for some pretty chilly conditions. Also of note is the fact that the Situk River water gauging station went out last weekend making it anyones guess what the current water level is. Based on the amount of rain we’ve had, discharge rates are most likely above 450 cfs which makes it pretty difficult to wade fish and cross the river. Anglers should take caution when fishing by foot. Boat anglers will have the most success in dealing with the higher water levels to a point. The extended forecast calls for more rain so it looks like we could have challenging conditions for awhile.

Saltwaters

King Salmon

Sportfishing for king salmon is open in Yakutat area marine waters. Department staff have received no reports of sport fishing out in Yakutat Bay. Most anglers troll spoons or herring behind a flasher. Please check the department website below for the recent emergency order and advisory annoucements regarding 2025 regional king salmon regulations for Southeast Alaska.

Halibut

Halibut fishing is slow. Fishing should start picking up next month.

Lingcod

Lingcod fishing is closed until May 16th. Please check the department website for the recent emergency order and advisory annoucements regarding changes to lingcod regulations in the Yakutat management area.

Rockfish

Fishing for rockfish should be excellent in the Yakutat area. Please check the department website for the recent emergency order and advisory annoucements regarding changes to rockfish regulations in 2025 for Southeast Alaska.

For further information, please get in touch with the Yakutat Area Sport Fish management biologist Jason Pawluk at (907) 784-3222.

Emergency orders can be found on our website.

Check out the new gofishak interactive map to discover popular fishing locations and information on species run timing, fishing gear selections, and boat and angler access tips!