What Yes Bay Offers Anglers

Yes Bay sits on the east coast of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, roughly 40 miles south of Ketchikan. The system combines saltwater access with productive freshwater streams, making it one of the region's most versatile fisheries. You can target Pacific salmon, halibut, and rockfish in the bay itself, then move into the streams for cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and more salmon depending on the season.

The bay is genuinely remote—there is no road access, and most anglers arrive by floatplane or boat from Ketchikan. That isolation means fewer people, stable fish populations, and water conditions that change predictably with tide and season. The trade-off is that you need to plan ahead, book transportation early, and be comfortable with weather that can shift quickly in Southeast Alaska.

Key Takeaways

  • Yes Bay holds Pacific salmon (pink, chum, and coho), halibut, and rockfish in saltwater, plus cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden in the streams.
  • Access requires floatplane or boat from Ketchikan; there is no road to the bay, so book transportation weeks in advance during peak season.
  • Peak salmon runs occur June through September, with halibut available year-round but most productive May through October.
  • The Alaska Department of Fish and Game sets daily bag limits and season dates that vary by species; check current regulations before you fish.
  • Tidal influence is strong—fish move with the tide, so timing your fishing around slack water or incoming tide improves your chances.

Saltwater Species and Seasons

Pink salmon arrive in Yes Bay starting in mid-July and peak through August. They are aggressive on small spoons and flies, and the fight is spirited for their size. Chum salmon show up in late August and September, preferring deeper water and larger presentations. Coho salmon run from August into October and are the most selective of the three, often requiring fly patterns that match local baitfish.

Halibut are present year-round but most abundant May through October. Fish the deeper channels and drop-offs on the edges of the bay, especially during slack tide when they feed more actively. Rockfish (primarily black and yellow rockfish) school in rocky areas and around kelp beds; they are excellent eating and provide consistent action when salmon are slow.

Saltwater fishing in Yes Bay is tide-dependent. Incoming tide and slack water are generally most productive. Outgoing tide can be fishable, but the current pushes fish into deeper water and makes presentation harder. Plan your day around the tide tables—a guide or lodge will have them, or you can download them from NOAA before you leave.

Freshwater Streams and Trout

Several streams drain into Yes Bay, and each holds cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden year-round. The streams are short and steep, typical of Southeast Alaska—you can fish them thoroughly in a day. Cutthroat trout run 8 to 14 inches on average and take small spinners, flies, and natural bait. Dolly Varden are often larger and more aggressive, especially in fall when they are preparing to spawn.

Stream fishing is best in summer and early fall when water levels are stable and visibility is good. Spring runoff can make streams unfishable for weeks. If you are visiting June or July, ask your guide or lodge which streams are in best condition—water temperature and clarity vary week to week. Fly fishing with small streamers and nymphs is effective, but spinning gear works just as well in these small systems.

Salmon also enter the streams, particularly coho and chum in late summer and fall. Stream salmon are often darker and less aggressive than their saltwater counterparts, but they still take flies and small lures. Check the current regulations for stream-specific rules—some streams have special restrictions on salmon harvest or gear type.

Getting There and Where to Stay

Floatplane is the standard route. Ketchikan-based air services operate scheduled flights to Yes Bay, typically departing early morning and returning late afternoon. The flight takes 30 to 45 minutes. Cost runs roughly $300 to $400 per person round-trip, though prices vary by operator and season. Book at least two weeks ahead during July and August; weather can delay flights, so build in an extra day if your schedule allows.

Yes Bay Lodge is the primary accommodation and operates year-round. It offers guided fishing packages that include lodging, meals, and boat access to the bay and streams. Independent anglers can also arrange floatplane drops and camp or stay in cabins, though this requires more planning and coordination with the air service. A few private cabins are available for rent through local booking services.

Bring rain gear, layers, and waterproof boots—Southeast Alaska weather is unpredictable, and you will be on the water in all conditions. Insect pressure is moderate to heavy June through August; bring head nets and insect repellent. Cell service does not exist at Yes Bay, so plan communication with family or work before you leave Ketchikan.

Regulations and Licensing

You need an Alaska fishing license, available from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Non-resident licenses are sold by the day, week, or year; a three-day license costs roughly $25 to $30. Licenses are sold online, by mail, and at sporting goods stores in Ketchikan before you fly out. Bring proof of your license with you—enforcement happens, and fines are substantial.

Bag limits and season dates change annually and vary by species and location. Yes Bay falls under Southeast Alaska regulations, which are published each January by the Department of Fish and Game. Salmon limits typically allow two to four fish per day depending on species; halibut limits are usually one fish per day with a size minimum. Stream fishing often has lower limits than saltwater. Download the current regulations booklet before you leave, or ask your guide to review them with you.

Catch-and-release is encouraged for species you do not intend to keep. Cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden are often released to preserve populations, especially in streams. Salmon and halibut are excellent table fare and worth keeping if you plan to cook them.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For saltwater fishing, bring a 7- to 9-weight fly rod or a medium-action spinning rod rated for 15- to 20-pound line. Saltwater fish are strong, and the current can be swift. Spoons in silver and gold (sizes 1 to 3) are reliable for salmon. Small jigs and soft plastics work for rockfish. Halibut fishing benefits from heavier jigs or live bait rigs; bring 30- to 50-pound line if you plan to target them seriously.

For streams, a 5- to 6-weight fly rod or light spinning rod is plenty. Small spinners (sizes 0 to 2), streamers, and nymphs cover most situations. Cutthroat trout are not leader-shy, so 6- to 8-pound tippet is fine. Dolly Varden will take larger flies and streamers, especially in fall.

Yes Bay Lodge and local guides can provide tackle if you do not want to fly with rods, but bringing your own gear ensures you have what you prefer. If you fly with rods, pack them in a hard case and arrive a day early to account for baggage delays.

Best Times to Fish Yes Bay

July and August are peak season—salmon are abundant, weather is most stable, and floatplane schedules are frequent. Expect higher prices and more anglers. June offers good fishing with fewer crowds, though some streams may still be high from snowmelt. September is excellent for coho salmon and Dolly Varden, with even fewer people, but weather becomes less predictable.

May and October are shoulder seasons with good halibut fishing and fewer anglers, but salmon runs are winding down or have not yet started. Winter (November through March) is possible but requires tolerance for cold, short days, and frequent weather delays. Spring (April and May) is unpredictable—snowmelt can make streams unfishable, but halibut fishing is solid and lodges are quieter.

If you want consistent salmon action with manageable crowds, plan for late June through early August. If you prefer solitude and do not mind fewer salmon, September or early October is better. Halibut anglers can fish productively any month the lodge is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to fish Yes Bay?

No, but a guide is valuable if you are unfamiliar with the area, tides, and local conditions. Most anglers book through Yes Bay Lodge, which includes a guide with lodging packages. Independent anglers can arrange floatplane access and fish on their own, though you will spend time learning the bay and streams instead of fishing.

What is the best month to go if I want to catch the most salmon?

July and August offer the most consistent salmon fishing, with pink, chum, and coho all present. If you want fewer crowds, late June or September is nearly as good. Peak pink salmon runs are mid-July through August; coho peak in September.

Can I fly-fish in Yes Bay?

Yes. Saltwater fly fishing for salmon and rockfish is productive, especially in the shallower areas and around structure. Streams are excellent for fly fishing. Bring saltwater-rated fly rods and lines; the salt and current are harder on gear than freshwater.

What happens if weather cancels my floatplane?

Floatplane delays and cancellations happen regularly in Southeast Alaska. Most lodges and air services will reschedule you for the next available flight at no extra charge. Build in an extra day or two if your schedule allows, and carry travel insurance that covers weather delays.

Is Yes Bay good for beginners?

Yes, especially if you book a guided package. Salmon and rockfish are forgiving species that take a variety of presentations, and guides teach technique as you fish. Stream fishing for cutthroat trout is also beginner-friendly. Halibut fishing requires more patience and technique, so it suits anglers with some saltwater experience.