Bristol Bay Fishing Report: Lake And Salmon Fishing Should Start Improving Soon
The following is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:
Bristol Bay Fishing Report
June 13, 2024
Freshwater Fishing
- Ice cover and snow piles have melted on most lower elevation lakes and boat launches in Bristol Bay to allow access while the higher elevation lakes and rivers are still iced up and are limiting access to fishing locations.
- Fishing for resident species such as rainbow trout, arctic char, arctic grayling, and northern pike is reported to be good locations where access is possible. Spinners, spoons and flies should work well until salmon begin to spawn in mid-August.
Saltwater Fishing
- Halibut fishing near Protection Point is reported to be poor to fair with mixed success.
- Horsehair crabs have been reported caught near Togiak Bay with hook and line.
Local Lakes
Many rivers and lakes are closed to all sport fishing until June 8, and some have different limits until June 8. Some drainages are restricted to unbaited, single-hook, artificial lures only, and some are catch-and-release only for rainbow trout. Please carefully check the regulations for the specific locations you plan to fish.
Special Species Information
King (or chinook) salmon are generally the first salmon species to arrive in Bristol Bay and usually begin to show up around the first week of June but angling success is usually poor until the middle of the month.
Emergency Orders
Please review the emergency orders and advisory announcements below in their entirety before heading out on your next fishing trip.
- There are currently no emergency orders for the Bristol Bay management area.
Don’t forget to purchase your 2024 sport fishing license and king stamp! You can purchase and display your fishing license and king stamp, record your annual harvest (i.e. king salmon), access sport fishing regulations and locations, and so much more on your mobile device. Download the ADF&G Mobile App today. You can also purchase licenses through the ADF&G online store and print it off from the comfort of your own home. Make sure to review emergency orders, advisory announcements, and the 2024 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary booklet for the area you are fishing before you head out. For additional information, please contact the ADF&G Bristol Bay Area Office at (907) 842-2427.