Why book with To The Limit Sportfishing?
- Simply put, fishing is my passion, not my job!
- By booking with me directly you’ll not only save money but you'll have an unforgettable personalized experience. I am your charter captain, the owner and operator of To The Limit Sportfishing and I personally plan the trip for your group specifically. I'll do my very best to make the charter a great experience.
- I've specialized in fishing cruise ship passengers coming to Ketchikan for over 15 years.
- You’ll enjoy a fully private fishing trip with your group of up to 6 people.
- Book a 6 hour charter and get 50% more time on the water for just a bit more money. (Not offered if booked through the cruise ship directly) The two extra hours can leave enough time to target both salmon and halibut and of course sightseeing.
- With over 40 years experience fishing in and around Ketchikan, Alaska, I know where, how and what to fish for given the time of year and conditions.
- I'll put fish on your line and in the boat. It's what I do.
Where to start?
- Book your charter online or contact me directly to schedule your trip. https://tothelimitsportfishing.com/contact
- Visit the Alaska Fish and Game website for your sport fishing licenses and tags. https://store.adfg.alaska.gov/
- Board your cruise and dream about your upcoming fishing trip with Captain Ty in Ketchikan, Alaska.
How to prepare
- I do have and supply rain gear, but HIGHLY recommend you bring your own.
- Proper footwear. Boots or waterproof shoes aren't necessary, but are nice.
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Even on cloudy days you can get sunburnt.
- Your camera!
- We fish in fairly protected water, but if you are prone to sea sickness or are nervous about it, be sure to take your anti-nauseous medication.
- Adults bring photo ID.
Getting to the boat
- Disney, Holland America, Princess Cruises, Celebrity and Carnival cruise ships arrive in downtown Ketchikan. Norwegian Cruise ships arrive in Ward Cove (7 miles north of Ketchikan)
- Once the ship has arrived in Alaskan waters (about an hour prior to docking) you should have full cell service and be able to call a taxi. Call SOURDOUGH CAB COMPANY at 907-225-5544.
- The driver will tell you where to meet them on the dock. Upon arrival, please disembark the ship as soon as you are allowed and find your taxi. The cab fare is about $50 which you are responsible for using cash or credit card.
- You will take the taxi from the cruise ship dock to the Knudson Cove Harbor.
- The ride to the ramp is about 15 minutes and generally pretty informative from a local driver. Once in the taxi, please shoot me a text or call to let me know you’re on your way.
- The boat will be moored at the ramp, fueled, warm and ready to go.
What to expect
- After arriving in Ketchikan, you’ll take a taxi to the Knudson Cove Harbor (about a 15-minute ride from the ship). I’ll be waiting for you aboard the Mazie Grace. All the gear will be ready, so all we need is you!
- After introductions, payment (via cc, cash or VENMO) and your gear is stowed, I’ll get your licenses logged and go over a quick safety briefing then we’re off!
- Knudson Cove is literally minutes from the fishing grounds. We’ll be fishing the north end of Ketchikan, in and around the Clover Passage/Behm Canal/Clearance Straight area. The water is relatively protected but conditions vary from day to day.
- Tides range from -4.0 to 19ft and rain is almost always in the forecast so come prepared. It does get sunny with little UV protection so bring sunblock.
- Ketchikan’s north end offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife including bald eagles, humpback, fin and minke whales as well as orcas and porpoise so bring binoculars if you have them.
The Fishing
- Salmon fishing is done by trolling various lures and bait between 20-120ft using downriggers at approximately 3mph. We generally fish 4 to 5 rods.
- Halibut fishing is typically done while anchored in 250-325ft of water using squid, salmon or and/or herring as bait.
- Ling Cod and Rock fish fishing is generally done jigging in 40-80ft of water while in a slow drift.
Amenities
- I’ll provide hot coffee, soft drinks and water as well as some snacks.
- There will be a drink cooler and ice for your use, so feel free to bring additional beverages and snacks.
- Laughs and good times!
Your catch
- There are local marinas and lodges in the area that provide fish processing and shipping services. We’ll discuss the particulars as we talk over your charter once booked.