Fishing may be just about Alaska’s most popular outdoor sport, offering world class king salmon and silver salmon fishing for anglers of any age. The best way to fish Alaska’s waters successfully, if you’re coming form out of state, is to hire a fishing guide. Coast guard licensed guides can provide all the tackle, gear, and expertise you need to enjoy your fishing trip.

But how will you choose a guide? Before you ask any questions, you’ll want to find some answers out for yourself. The most important factor is to decide which geographic area within Alaska you’ll visit. Whether you’re headed to the Arctic, the interior, the south central region, the southeast, or the southwest, figure out where you want to go.

Another important factor is to figure out which species of salmon you want to fish. Are you interested in Alaska King salmon, red salmon, silver salmon, Alaska halibut, arctic char, northern pike, steelhead, or rainbow trout? The more you know what you want, the more likely you are to be able to find it.

Now that you have figured out where you want to go, and what you want to fish, you’re ready to identify guides in the region. When you contact guides you’d like to work with, make sure you ask for references. Go ahead and contact these references, and ask them a few questions about their trip. How long was their boat trip, and how much fishing time did they get? Don’t stint the time that you spend on the water; you’d best dedicate a full ten hours, since salmon can be elusive targets.

Ask the guide about the rates they charge, and ask how long they’ve been in business in Alaska. Fish runs go in seven-year cycles, and the more cycles they’ve fished, the better it is for you. And make sure that you understand clearly what they will provide. It’s always a good idea to know what you’ll be getting for your money. Are you responsible for your fishing license, food, and refreshments?