Fish Species Chart
Steamboat Bay sits on Noyes Island, in the heart of some of the most productive fishing grounds in the world. From powerful king salmon to steady halibut and lively schools of rockfish, the waters surrounding Noyes are renowned for their variety and consistency throughout the season. This chart highlights the species you are most likely to encounter on the water and helps you and your guide plan each day around the fish you are most excited to pursue.
King Salmon (Chinook)
King Salmon are the giants of the Pacific, often weighing 20 pounds or more and reaching three to four feet in length. Their strongest presence comes in early summer, as Kings push in from the open ocean to feed along the coast before heading toward their spawning grounds. Their incredible fight makes them one of the world’s most sought-after sport fish and a true trophy catch in these waters.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only. Kings caught in May and June will apply to the one fish limit.
Daily Limit
1 King
Annual Limit
May – June, 3 Kings
July – Aug, 1 King
Min. Length
28″
Silver Salmon (Coho)
Silver Salmon arrive in strong numbers in late summer, typically peaking in July and August. Known for their speed and acrobatics, silvers average 8 to 12 pounds and often leap clear out of the water when hooked, making them one of the most exciting species to target on light tackle. When the schools are in, fast action and full boats are common, creating some of the most energetic fishing of the season.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only.
Daily Limit
6 Silvers
Annual Limit
None
Min. Length
None
Pacific Halibut
Pacific Halibut are the heavyweights of Southeast Alaska. Large and incredibly strong, halibut commonly reach sizes over 100 pounds, with the biggest adults in these waters growing well beyond 300 pounds. Known for their steady, determined pull, they offer a rewarding deep-water fight and some of the best table fare guests bring home from Steamboat Bay.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only. Thursday closures: No halibut may be caught or kept on Thursdays between June 18th and September 10th (except with Halibut Tag)
Daily Limit
1 Halibut
Annual Limit
None
Length Restrictions
34″ – 80″ to be released
Lingcod
Lingcod are one of the most dramatic fish in Southeast Alaska. Though not a true cod, they belong to the greenling family and thrive along rocky reefs near shore. Known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, lingcod can exceed 80 pounds and reach lengths of five feet or more. Their impressive size and smaller fillet yield make every catch especially prized.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only. Season: May 16 – July 31 and September 1 – November 30.
Daily Limit
1 Lingcod
Annual Limit
2 Lingcod
Length Restrictions
One 30 – 35″, One 55″ or more
Pelagic Rockfish
Pelagic Rockfish are fast moving, midwater species that add steady action and fun variety to the day. Common pelagic varieties in Southeast Alaska include black, dusky, dark, widow, blue, and yellowtail rockfish. Often found in schools, they create lively bursts of excitement between salmon or halibut sets.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only.
Daily Limit
3 Pelagic Rockfish
Annual Limit
None
Min. Length
None
Yelloweye Rockfish
Yelloweye Rockfish are among the most striking species in Southeast Alaska. Averaging 10 to 15 pounds and reaching lengths of up to three feet, they are deep water dwellers known for their vivid orange color and unmistakable yellow eyes. Encountering one is always memorable and adds a moment of surprise and excitement to the day.
Nonresident guidelines for 2026 only.
Daily Limit
1 Yelloweye
Annual Limit
1 Yelloweye
Min. Length
None