FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Gearing Up for the Adventure
The floatplane is booked. The tides are turning. The salmon are surging in from the Pacific. Whether you’re a returning guest counting down the days or still dreaming about your first trip to Alaska, now’s the time to start planning—or start packing—for the adventure of a lifetime at Waterfall Resort.
Our 52-acre property on Prince of Wales Island isn’t just a fishing lodge. It’s a launchpad for memories, for stories that begin with “Remember that time in Alaska…” and end with a 50-pound king salmon on your line.
This guide covers everything you need to know to prepare for your trip—and for those who haven’t booked yet, fair warning: reading this might just reel you in. We definitely recommend checking out our FAQ and Travel Information page for even more prep details.
What to Expect on Arrival
Your Waterfall Resort experience begins in Ketchikan, Alaska, where you'll connect with a scenic floatplane flight that lands directly at the resort dock. We recommend Alaska Airlines flight #101 departs Seattle at 9:53 a.m. and arrives into Ketchikan (KTN) at 11:00 a.m.; for a floatplanes departure for Waterfall Resort starting at 12:30 p.m.
Once you’re here, nearly everything is taken care of. Your stay includes accommodations, all meals, guided sport fishing, full fishing gear and rainwear, and the professional processing, packaging, and freezing of your catch. Our team will have your fish boxed and ready for travel on departure day—no coolers required.
Packing with Purpose
Guests often ask what to bring, especially since we provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, boots, and rain gear. The most important thing you can do is pack for changing weather. Layering is key. Mornings can be brisk, afternoons can warm up, and rain is always a possibility. A waterproof outer shell, thermal base layers, and comfortable boat-ready clothing are essential. Also bring a warm hat, gloves for fishing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Toiletries, a camera or GoPro, and any personal medications should also be on your list. That said, pack light, remember you have fish boxes to bring home as checked luggage! Many veteran guests bring just a rolling carry-on and backpack.
A Day in the Life at Waterfall Resort
Days begin early and are designed around getting you out on the water. A full breakfast is served starting at 5:30 a.m., with boats departing by 6:45. You'll spend up to 10 hours fishing each day, guided by experts who know these waters inside and out.
Lunch is enjoyed aboard the boat, and by 4:30 p.m., vessels return to the dock. Dinner is in the Great Room featuring a hearty Alaskan fare.
Evenings are relaxed—time to unwind in your cabin, swap stories with fellow guests at the Lagoon Saloon, take a stroll on the boardwalk to our namesake waterfall or enjoy the sunset from the dock. Behind the scenes, your catch is cleaned, vacuum-sealed, flash frozen, and packed into airline-approved boxes that keep fish frozen for up to 24 hours.
Planning for Your Catch
Guests typically head home with a 50-pound box filled with their catch: salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. Your fish will be labeled by species, processed to perfection, and handed off to you on the day of departure in Ketchikan. Be sure your home freezer is cleared and ready.
Know Your Limits
One of the most exciting parts of your stay is seeing just how much you can catch and bring home. Alaska’s sportfishing regulations are carefully managed to ensure healthy fisheries, and your daily and annual limits vary by species and season. Waterfall Resort keeps you informed, and our guides track your totals so you can enjoy fishing without the guesswork.
To see current limits for king salmon, silver salmon, halibut, lingcod, and other species, visit our Fishing Limits Chart for the most up-to-date regulation
Who You’ll Be Fishing With
The dock brings together all types—first-timers, longtime regulars, multigenerational families, corporate groups, solo travelers, and couples looking for something different. It’s a community, even if just for a few days, bonded by a shared appreciation for adventure and the thrill of the catch.
If you haven’t booked yet, know that a few dates remain this summer. July and August are prime time, and they’re filling fast. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of it.
Still Thinking About It?
Waterfall Resort’s fishing season is short, but the memories last forever. For those already booked, this is your time to prepare for the adventure. And for those still undecided, consider this your nudge.
For booking or questions, call 800-544-5125 or email fish@waterfallresort.com.
Let's go fishing!