Let’s Talk about Skagway Fishing

In Canada!

Skagway fishing is amazing when you’re in Canada. Just look at this lunker lake trout!

Many cruise ship passengers are eager to learn about Skagway fishing. As an avid angler, I know just about everything there is to know about Skagway fishing. The absolute best Skagway fishing is actually in Canada!

Say what?

You heard me. While you may be able to catch some fish in the fjord next to where your cruise ship is docked, the fishing north of Skagway in Canada is far better. You see, Skagway has a highway that passes by an assortment of lakes and rivers teeming with fish throughout the summer season. You can rent a jeep from M&M Tours, grab a fishing license, and bring your fishing rod for some world-class Skagway fishing in Canada!

What you will need to bring

First and foremost, you’re going to need some fishing gear. I recommend bringing a light action spinning rig in your suitcase along with an assortment of small spoons and spinners. A travel rod packs up super easy and doesn’t take up a lot of space. If you’re a fly fisherman, good for you! You already know everything so just roll with that.

You are also going to need a fishing license. After traveling out of Alaska (about 15 miles north) you drive through about 35 miles of British Columbia before entering the Yukon Territory. You need a fishing license for both BC and the Yukon. Or you can choose one location to go fishing and just get one license. 

Traveling to Canada requires a passport, so be sure to bring yours along. I recommend some snacks and beer. If you plan on eating your catch, you’re going to need a pan and whatnot. You will also need a knife to cut up the fish. Or you can also just give your fish to me. 

What kind of Skagway fishing opportunities are there in Canada?

Oh look at that. Here I am with a small pike I used for bait.

The most common fish caught north of Skagway are lake trout, northern pike, and arctic grayling. Almost any turnout along the highway can hold fish, depending on the time of year. If you work at it you will catch a fish unless you’re one of those unlucky people that can’t even catch a cold.

Lake trout like small spoons and may hit near the surface or near the bottom. They are the most common and easiest fish to catch in Canada. Big lake trout are harder to catch because I caught them all. 

Northern pike are found in weedy and marshy areas. Pike are more difficult to catch because the best fishing spots require a canoe or small boat. If you can fit a canoe in your suitcase then go for it. If not, maybe you can rent a boat at the Tagish Marina. Where is the Tagish Marina? In Tagish, silly.

This is a grayling. I’m surprised there are any fish left in Canada to tell you the truth.

Arctic grayling are also common along the highway. You can see them rise to the surface when eating insects, making them easy to target. Sometimes there are so many grayling you can catch one on a bare hook. Grayling aren’t very smart. 

Where do you catch all of these fish?

Obviously my secret fishing holes are the best spots to catch fish in Canada. If you’re going to enjoy Skagway fishing in Canada, you need to know where to catch the fish. The most popular Skagway fishing lakes in Canada are Summit Lake, Lake Tutshi, Shallow Lake, Tagish Lake, Lake Bennett, Marsh Lake and Nares Lake. You may even want to try the Tagish River Bridge if you want to catch a giant lake trout. Where is the Tagish River Bridge? In Tagish, silly.

The key to catching fish in Canada is to fish where the fish are. You won’t catch any fish if there are no fish in the place you’re fishing. The other secret to a successful day of Skagway fishing in Canada is to catch the fish. Eating them then becomes optional. 

Thanks for learning all about Skagway fishing in Canada. I hope you enjoy your trip and catch lots of big fish. You deserve it!