The Alaska Department of Fish and Game, also known as ADF&G, reported that the 2025 salmon run is expected to be 27% smaller than the average from the last five years (about 12,100 large salmon). If this happens, it would be the second-lowest salmon run in almost 40 years. Even with the lower forecast, people fishing in Juneau can still enjoy popular and reliable fishing areas.

Juneau’s location and cold waters support healthy king, pink, coho, and chum salmon runs. Understanding the local hotspots can help visitors and residents find success. Here are seven proven Salmon Fishing Juneau spots to explore:

Tee Harbor

Located 18 miles north of downtown, Tee Harbor offers excellent access to king salmon in spring and early summer. Its protected waters and public launch make it ideal for boat anglers. Shore casting is also possible during strong tidal movements.

The harbor sees good returns of Chinook, and fishing here is consistent during May and June. Anglers typically troll near kelp beds or rocky outcrops. The harbor’s calm conditions help with precise lure placement.

For those trailering their own boats, this is one of the easiest deep-water access points north of the city. Wildlife sightings are common, and the drive offers scenic coastal views. It’s a focused, high-yield destination.

Macaulay Salmon Hatchery (Channel Drive Public Fishing Pier)

The public pier next to Macaulay Salmon Hatchery is one of the top fishing locations in the city. It offers direct access to pink and silver salmon during the late summer. Visitors can fish here without needing a boat or hiking gear.

The pier is well-maintained and suitable for casting with light tackle. Fish gather near the outflow from the hatchery, which boosts your odds of a bite. Early evening and overcast days are especially productive.

This spot works well for anglers with limited time. Gear rentals nearby make it accessible for cruise passengers. It’s a smart choice for a quick and rewarding experience.

Fish Creek (Douglas Island)

Fish Creek on Douglas Island offers strong salmon runs — kings in early summer, then pinks and cohos. Clear water lets you spot fish before casting; spinners and bait work well. For the best results at Fish Creek, follow these tips:

  • Fish just after high tide when salmon move upstream
  • Use barbless hooks for easier release
  • Stay low and quiet to avoid spooking fish
  • Focus on the deep pools during sunny days

Remember to view and comply with current fishing regulations for Douglas Island, in particular ADF&G rules for Fish Creek. Fish Creek is highly active between June and August, offering frequent bites and good water clarity. The mix of species and visibility make it an educational spot for learning behavior and salmon fishing techniques.

Cowee Creek

About an hour from downtown, Cowee Creek draws anglers for steady runs of pink, coho, and chum salmon in July and August. The bridge area is popular, and drift rigs or float setups work well in the current. Gravel banks make it easy to move along the stream.

Though easy to reach, the creek feels remote and rarely crowded, making it a local favorite. Fish are often fresh and ocean-bright. Timing your visit with the tides boosts your chances.

Sheep Creek

As one of the best salmon fishing spots, Sheep Creek, southeast of town, is known for its productive chum runs in late summer. You can also find Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout in spring and fall. The creek is shallow, narrow, and best fished with lighter gear.

August is peak season, with chums pushing upstream and active surface movement. The creek is easy to wade, and fish hold in deeper channels — small streamers or jigs work well. Don’t forget these Sheep Creek essentials:

  • Light spinning rod or 6-weight fly setup
  • Polarized sunglasses to spot fish in shallow water
  • Waders or waterproof boots for crossing the creek
  • A small net to handle fish quickly and safely

Sheep Creek rewards precision and patience. The smaller space means you need to read the water closely and adjust as conditions change. It’s a great spot for testing skills in a tighter setting.

Auke Bay

Auke Bay is a busy and reliable option for targeting king and coho salmon from June through August, located just northwest of Juneau. The deep waters and strong tides attract larger, migrating fish. For a smoother Auke Bay trip, stick to these Juneau fishing tips:

  • Review tide tables for optimal fishing times
  • Use flashers with herring or hoochies when trolling
  • Choose early morning for fewer boats and active fish
  • Pack motion sickness aids if going offshore

Besides the reminder to review NOAA Juneau tide charts, note that many charter boats leave from Auke Bay’s harbor, but shore anglers can also fish from docks or beach sections. The area is well-serviced, with restrooms, gear shops, and restaurants nearby. Even better, the marina is clean, organized, and popular with both locals and visitors.

Montana Creek

Montana Creek runs through a quiet wooded area near the Brotherhood Bridge trail system. It’s popular for fly fishing and walking access. From late July through August, pink and coho salmon enter the creek in good numbers.

Casting dry flies or small streamers upstream often triggers strikes. The slow current makes it ideal for new fly anglers while offering a challenge for more experienced ones. You can cover a lot of base (water) quickly without needing to cross deep channels.

This creek offers technical Alaska fishing adventures in a calm setting. Watching salmon in the riffles adds a visual element to the sport. It’s a go-to spot for practicing casting, accuracy, and fish handling.

Book Your Salmon Fishing Juneau Adventure Today

Salmon Fishing Juneau connects you to Alaska’s rugged beauty and world-famous salmon runs. Strong local knowledge and smart planning can still lead to success even with a lower forecast this year. The spots listed here offer different experiences to match your time, skill level, and target species.
If you’re ready to book a guided fishing experience, go with a team that values privacy, quality, and real adventure.

Adventures in Alaska Charters is here for you, a husband-and-wife team with 20 years of experience guiding small groups in Juneau’s best waters. Reserve your exclusive fishing trip — just you, your crew, and the catch of a lifetime.