Neets Bay is a short boat ride from Ketchikan with good halibut and rockfish in summer

Neets Bay sits about 20 miles south of Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island, accessible only by water or floatplane. The bay holds Pacific halibut and rockfish year-round, with the strongest fishing from June through September when the water warms and halibut move into shallower depths. Depths range from 40 to 200 feet depending on where you fish within the bay, and the structure—rocky bottom, kelp beds, and drop-offs—holds fish consistently.

Most anglers charter a boat from Ketchikan rather than make the trip independently. The bay itself is protected and relatively calm compared to open water, which matters because Southeast Alaska weather can turn fast. A typical charter runs four to eight hours and costs between $400 and $800 depending on the boat and number of anglers, with the operator handling navigation and usually providing tackle.

Key Takeaways

  • Neets Bay is 20 miles south of Ketchikan and reachable only by charter boat or floatplane, with halibut and rockfish the primary target species.
  • Summer months (June through September) offer the most consistent fishing, with halibut in 40 to 200 feet of water over rocky bottom and kelp.
  • Charter boats from Ketchikan handle all logistics and typically cost $400 to $800 for a half or full day, with tackle usually included.
  • Bring seasickness medication if you are prone to motion, rain gear, and polarized sunglasses; the boat ride is short but the weather is unpredictable.

What Species You'll Find and When

Halibut is the main draw. They move into Neets Bay's shallower water during summer and fall, with June through August typically the peak. Fish range from 20 to 60 pounds on average, though larger fish are caught regularly. Halibut bite best on live herring or squid jigged near the bottom, and you will spend most of your time working vertical structure rather than casting.

Rockfish—primarily black and yellow rockfish—are present year-round and bite aggressively on small jigs and shrimp. They are excellent for anglers who want consistent action between halibut bites, and they make good eating. In spring and early summer, lingcod occasionally show up in the same areas as halibut.

Salmon are not a reliable target in Neets Bay itself, though you may encounter them during the boat ride to and from Ketchikan. Most charter operators focus on halibut and rockfish because that is where the consistent fishing is.

Tackle and Technique for Halibut and Rockfish

Halibut fishing in Neets Bay is vertical jigging in 40 to 200 feet of water. Bring or rent a medium-heavy jigging rod (6 to 7 feet) with a conventional reel spooled with 30- to 50-pound braided line. Jigs range from 8 to 16 ounces depending on depth and current; your charter operator will tell you what weight to start with. Live herring is the preferred bait, but squid and frozen herring work when live bait is not available.

Technique is straightforward: drop the jig to the bottom, work it with sharp upstrokes, and pause to let it fall. Halibut bites are often a solid thump rather than a strike, and you will feel the weight immediately. Set the hook hard and keep pressure on the fish—halibut are strong and will head for rocks if given slack.

Rockfish fishing uses lighter jigs (1/4 to 1 ounce) and smaller tackle. A 6-foot medium rod with 20-pound line works well. Cast near kelp beds and rocky outcrops, or jig vertically in shallower areas. Rockfish bite readily and rarely require finesse.

Getting to Neets Bay from Ketchikan

Charter boats depart from Ketchikan's downtown docks or from marinas on the north end of town. Most operators offer half-day trips (four to five hours) and full-day trips (eight hours), with the difference being how much time you spend fishing versus travel time. The boat ride itself takes 45 minutes to an hour each way, depending on sea state and which part of the bay you fish.

Book your charter at least a week in advance during peak season (June through August), as popular operators fill quickly. Many charters can be reserved through Ketchikan visitor centers or directly through the boat operators' websites. Confirm what is included—most provide tackle, bait, and fish cleaning, but some charge extra for tackle rental or do not clean fish.

If you have your own boat, Neets Bay is navigable for experienced boaters, but the open-water crossing from Ketchikan requires knowledge of Southeast Alaska conditions and proper navigation equipment. Most visiting anglers use a charter.

Seasons and Weather Conditions

Summer (June through September) is the primary season. Water temperatures rise, halibut move shallower, and the weather is most stable—though "stable" in Southeast Alaska still means afternoon rain and wind are common. July and August are typically the warmest and driest months, but fishing is good throughout the summer window.

Spring (April and May) can be productive for halibut, but the weather is colder and rougher, and fewer charters operate. Fall (October and November) sees fewer anglers and can produce large halibut, but daylight shortens and storms become more frequent. Winter fishing is possible but limited by weather and reduced charter availability.

Bring rain gear regardless of the season—it will rain. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish in shallow water and reduce glare off the water. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding; the bay itself is protected, but the crossing from Ketchikan can be rough in wind.

Regulations and Licensing

You will need a valid Alaska saltwater fishing license, available through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website or at sporting goods stores in Ketchikan. Licenses are available for one day, three days, or a full year. Most charter operators can sell you a license or direct you to where to buy one before you depart.

Halibut has a daily bag limit (currently two fish per person, but check current regulations before you go), and there are size restrictions on some rockfish species. Your charter operator will know the current rules and will enforce them. Lingcod, if you catch any, have their own limits and size requirements.

Charter boats are required to report their catch to the state, so your fish are counted toward management data. This does not affect you directly, but it is why accurate reporting matters.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Wear layers. The water temperature in summer is in the 50s Fahrenheit, and the air temperature can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler on the water than in town. A waterproof jacket, fleece, and long pants are standard. Bring sunscreen even on cloudy days—the reflection off the water is strong and you will burn.

Most charters provide tackle and bait, but bring your own if you have preferences or want backup gear. Bring snacks and water; the charter will usually have coffee and may have sandwiches available. Seasickness medication should be taken before boarding, not after you feel sick. Ginger, dramamine, or prescription patches all work for different people—know what works for you.

Expect to be on the water for six to ten hours depending on the trip length. You will be standing or sitting in a boat the entire time, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The fishing can be fast and furious or slow and meditative depending on the day—both are normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to fish Neets Bay?

No. Charter operators work with anglers of all skill levels, and halibut and rockfish jigging is straightforward to learn. The operator will show you the technique, and you will catch fish on your first day. Bring patience and a willingness to follow instructions.

What is the best time of year to go?

July and August offer the warmest weather and most stable conditions, with reliable halibut fishing. June and September are less crowded and still productive. If you want the best chance at large halibut, October and November can be excellent, but weather is rougher and fewer charters operate.

Can I fish Neets Bay without a charter?

If you have your own boat and experience navigating Southeast Alaska waters, yes. Most visiting anglers use a charter because it eliminates navigation risk and provides local knowledge. Renting a boat in Ketchikan is possible but expensive and requires boating experience.

How much does a charter cost and what does it include?

Half-day charters run $400 to $600; full-day charters run $600 to $800. Most include tackle, bait, and fish cleaning. Some charge extra for tackle rental or do not clean fish—confirm before booking. Gratuity for the operator is customary (15 to 20 percent).

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?

Most charters will reschedule or refund if conditions are unsafe. Southeast Alaska weather can change quickly, so flexibility helps. Book your charter early in your trip if possible, giving yourself extra days to reschedule if needed.