Why Visit Sitka, Alaska?

Why visit Sitka, AK?

Each day on the water delivers something special. Sitka remains one of the great places on planet earth to fish and explore amidst a unique saltwater wilderness.

Here’s why:

  • The highest catch rate for king salmon and halibut.
  • Daily multi-species opportunities for salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and blackcod
  • Surrounded by the only northern temperate rainforest in the world.
  • Scenery with high rocky peaks descending to the ocean’s edge.
  • Abundant wildlife
    • Whales
    • Sea Otters
    • Sea lions and seals
    • Eagles, albatross, puffins.
    • Bear
    • Sitka black tail deer
  • The town of Sitka
    • Museums
    • Restaurants
    • Raptor Center
    • Fortress of the Bear
    • Extensive trail network for hiking, running, biking, or e-biking
    • Relaxation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Sitka Scenery & Wildlife

Sitka is considered one of the most beautiful places in all of Alaska. Landmarked by the only dormant volcano in Southeast Alaska, Mt. Edgecumbe is just one of many sights that you’ll find yourself staring at.

There is an abundance of wildlife in the Sitka area. There is a good chance you will see several of these wonderful creatures while traveling to, from or on fishing grounds. Your guide will help point them out, and move in for a better look or photo if you wish.

St. Lazaria is another unusual and wonderful sight. Located just a half mile south of Mt. Edcumbe’s shoreline, this small volcanic rock island is a bird watcher’s paradise. It is often called “Bird Island”; it has been declared a bird sanctuary and is home to thousands of our feathered friends. Tuffed Puffins, Common Muers, Bald Eagles, Rino Auklets, and several others all share this little Island.

Most of the land in Southeast Alaska is part of the Tongass National Forest, which is the largest National Forest in the country. With an annual rainfall of over 90 inches, there is plenty of water to grow lots of trees. Douglas Fir, Sitka Spruce, White Cedar, and Hemlock dominate the mountain sides, and give them their lush green look for miles and miles.

Sitka Activities

If you aren’t out on the water enjoying a day of fishing with Angling Unlimited, here are some local activities to keep you busy.

Young Angling Unlimited guest fishes from the shore in Sitka, Alaska

Fly Fish Sitka

“Experience Fly Fishing in untouched fresh waters under the towering Sitka Spruce and Hemlock trees of the Tongass National Forest for Salmon, Trout, Char and Steelhead”

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Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures features a kayaking adventure

Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures

“The majority of this pristine marine wilderness is fringed by poorly-charted reefs and vast kelp forests – places that are best explored up-close, by sea kayak. Much of this environment is inaccessible by any other means. Quite simply, there is no better place in the world for sea kayaking.”

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Sitka Trail Works

“It is the mission of Sitka Trail Works, Inc. to contribute to the over-all health of the community through the development, maintenance and promotion of a comprehensive trail system in the Sitka area.”

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Exterior of Yellow Jacket Cycle Shop in Sitka, Alaska

Yellow Jersey Cycle Shop

“Sitka is easy to see by bike and has been certified by The League of American Cyclists. The historic downtown area, with its many visitor attractions, is compact and accessible. Sitka’s paved roads extend about seven miles in either direction along the coastline.”

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Overlooking a water-front golf course in Sitka, Alaska

Sea Mountain Golf

“Golf – 7 Days a Week – Tee-off – 8am until 6pm”

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Tribal tour in Sitka, Alaska

Tribal Tours

“Most historical tour in Sitka gives a living thread from the past to present. Seen through the eyes of the Tlingit, Sitka’s history is a steady drumbeat, a rhythm, a song ten thousand years old.”

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A charter boat explores Sitka, Alaska

Allen Marine Tours

“All of our day cruises are thoughtfully designed to provide our guests with the best means possible to view and learn about the wilderness and wildlife of Southeast Alaska, and provide insight into the human history & cultures of the people who live here.”

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A hawk lands on a falconer's hand in Sitka, Alaska

Alaska Raptor Center

“The Alaska Raptor Center has become Alaska’s foremost bald eagle hospital and educational center, as well as one of the state’s premier visitor attractions.”

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A bear stands next to the water in the Sitka, Alaska wilderness

Fortress of the Bear

“A 501 (c)3 non-profit education and rescue center with an exquisite three-quarter acre habitat for orphaned Brown Bear cubs complete with covered viewing areas. Also home to the Sawmiill Farm.”

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A woman dances with two women standing and clapping behind her

New Archangel Dancers

“The New Archangel Dancers mission is to promote and encourage interest in Alaska’s Russian History and culture through sharing of ethnic folk dance and song.”

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The interior of the aquarium in Sitka, Alaska

Sitka Sound Science Center

“The Sitka Sound Science Center is dedicated to increasing understanding and awareness of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of the Gulf of Alaska through education and research.”

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The interior of a museum in Sitka, Alaska

Sheldon Jackson Museum

“The Museum’s collection has been called a jewel in the crown of Alaska ethnographic collections.”

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Snow covered mountains stand tall behind low buildings in Sitka, Alaska

Sitka History Museum

“Known as the only museum in Sitka that contains elements of all of Sitka’s history, the Sitka Historical Museum is packed with displays, photographs, and artifacts from Sitka’s Tlingit, Russian, and American history. This is a great first stop for travelers to orient themselves to Sitka.”

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Sitka Restaurants

A few of the crew’s favorite spots:

Full List of Sitka Restaurants