Fishing Fun: 6 Alaska State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

15 Sep 2025 — 3 min read

Photo: Alaska State Parks (Facebook)

Alaska is world-renowned for its pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife and legendary fishing. From trophy salmon to massive halibut, feisty trout and other unique species, the state’s waters are an angler’s paradise. Fortunately, many of Alaska’s best fishing spots are found within its state park system. This offers easy access, campgrounds and stunning scenery for boaters and travelers.

Whether you’re cruising out from a marina or trailering from a private boat dock rental, here are some of the top state parks in Alaska for fishing adventures.

1. Chugach State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Paxson Woelber/CC by SA 2.0

Just outside Anchorage, Chugach State Park provides a convenient escape into the wild. Anglers can fish rivers and lakes for Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling and all five species of Pacific salmon. Eklutna Lake and Ship Creek are especially popular spots, combining scenic beauty with reliable fishing opportunities.

Water: Fresh and salt
Key Species: Dolly Varden trout, Arctic grayling, Pacific salmon
Fishing Type: Shore, boat

2. Denali State Park

Often overshadowed by its larger national park neighbor, Denali State Park in Trapper Creek is a gem for fishing. The Susitna River system offers excellent salmon runs, as well as Arctic grayling and rainbow trout. With stunning views of Denali itself, this park is perfect for those who want a mix of fishing and world-class mountain scenery.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Rainbow trout, Arctic grayling, salmon
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Kachemak Bay State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Beeblebrox/CC by SA 3.0

Kachemak Bay State Park, accessible only by boat or plane, is a true wilderness fishing destination. Anglers can cast for halibut, rockfish and salmon in saltwater, or hike to backcountry lakes and streams for trout and Dolly Varden. Located near Homer, its remote setting makes for an unforgettable Alaskan experience to enjoy from private boat lifts for rent.

Water: Fresh and salt
Key Species: Rockfish, halibut, salmon, trout, Dolly Varden
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Wood-Tikchik State Park

As the largest state park in the U.S., Wood-Tikchik in western Alaska’s Dillingham, is legendary among serious anglers. This vast wilderness of lakes and rivers offers some of the best fly-fishing in the world for rainbow trout, Arctic char, grayling and all five species of salmon. Its remote location ensures solitude and trophy-sized catches.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Rainbow trout, Arctic char, salmon, grayling
Fishing Type: Boat, shore, fly

5. Afognak Island State Park

Afognak Island State Park, situated off Kodiak Island, is a rugged and beautiful spot to take your fishing rods and reels. Its streams support strong runs of red, pink and silver salmon, as well as Dolly Varden and steelhead. Surrounded by lush forests and wildlife, fishing here feels like stepping back in time to an untouched Alaskan wilderness.

Water: Fresh and salt
Key Species: Dolly Varden, steelhead, salmon (red, pink and silver)
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Chilkat State Park

Overlooking Lynn Canal near Haines, Chilkat State Park offers some of the best shore-based saltwater fishing in Alaska. Anglers can catch halibut, salmon, and Dolly Varden right from the shoreline or by boat. The park’s dramatic mountain backdrop adds to the experience, whether you’re arriving from a marina or a private boat slip for rent.

Water: Fresh and salt
Key Species: Salmon, halibut, Dolly Varden
Fishing Type: Boat, shore