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Join Reel Alaska Fishing Charter on a wildlife-packed cruise through Tongass National Forest—spot whales, bears, and stunning scenery in southeastern Alaska. Read on for the full adventure!
Join Reel Alaska Fishing Charter on a wildlife-packed cruise through Tongass National Forest—spot whales, bears, and stunning scenery in southeastern Alaska. Read on for the full adventure!
Book with Reel Alaska Fishing Charter
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Reel Alaska Fishing Charter · Ketchikan, Alaska
Set off from the cruise port into Alaska’s legendary Tongass National Forest, a sprawling wilderness that offers unmatched wildlife encounters. The Backwater Bears & Whale Watching Excursion with Reel Alaska Fishing Charter provides an up-close look at nature’s grandeur, perfect for adventure-seeking travelers eager to see bears, whales, and beyond. This tour travels 50 to 100 miles into pristine waters around Neets Bay and Traitors Cove, two of the area’s prime wildlife hotspots. As the boat cruises through fjords carved by glaciers, guests can watch for humpback whales breaching or spy dark silhouettes of fin whales beneath the waves. Keep your camera ready—this area is also famous for black bears fishing for salmon in shallow rivers, a unique sight rarely seen elsewhere. Reel Alaska is a reputable operation based in Ketchikan, specializing in sustainable, eco-friendly tours that prioritize low-impact wildlife viewing. Their experienced guides combine wildlife expertise with storytelling, making each trip a riveting, educational experience. Beyond whale sightings, participants may spot harbor seals, eagles, and seagulls circling overhead. The tour offers a rare chance to witness the raw power and beauty of southeastern Alaska's coastal ecosystem, making it a highlight for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, this excursion blends adventure with environmental respect, fitting perfectly into Alaska’s wildlife-rich landscape. Perfect for those wanting a dynamic, immersive experience with minimal technical difficulty, the tour lasts approximately 4-6 hours. Prepare with layered clothing, binoculars, and a sense of curiosity. With opportunities to learn about local ecosystems and conservation efforts, this trip embodies the spirit of responsible adventure. The unique blend of whale watching and bear sightings makes Reel Alaska a staple in Alaska’s outdoor scene, showcasing why the Tongass is a must-visit park for wildlife lovers.
easy.
4-6 hours.
All fitness levels welcome; some sitting and standing required
Yes, the waters around Tongass National Forest are prime whale habitat, and sightings are common during the season.
The tour requires minimal physical effort—just sitting, standing, and a willingness to observe wildlife.
Typically, tours offer light snacks and drinks, but catering varies by operator—check with Reel Alaska prior to booking.
Summer months, from June through September, offer the best opportunities for whale and bear sightings.
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, but children should be supervised at all times.
Bringing binoculars, layered clothing, and a camera can greatly enhance your experience.
The Tongass National Forest, established in 1960, is the largest national forest in the U.S., with a rich history of indigenous habitation and resource-based industries.
Reel Alaska prioritizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife while educating visitors about local conservation efforts.
Reel Alaska Fishing Charter operates from Ketchikan, Alaska, providing guided fishing charters and wildlife excursions throughout Southeast Alaska. The company offers a range of trips including Full Day Combo Fishing Tours, Half Day Salmon Fishing Excursions (maximum six clients per vessel), Half Day Bottom Fishing & Nature Tours, Ketchikan Crabbing, Whales & Wildlife Excursions, Ketchikan Whales & Wildlife Excursions, Backwater Bears & Whale watching Excursions, and Private Whale Watching & Misty Fjords National Park Tours. Excursions range from two-hour wildlife searches departing directly from cruise ships to extended backwater journeys of 50–100 miles into the Tongass National Forest and 4.5-hour private passages into Misty Fjords National Monument. Target species listed in trip descriptions include halibut, all five species of salmon, lingcod, and Dungeness and rock crabs. Several tours combine fishing with whale and wildlife viewing; wildlife highlights named in trip copy include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and coastal bears, and scenic features such as New Eddystone volcano. Trip information indicates options to ship fresh catch home after crabbing or fishing trips and notes private charter options for customized itineraries. The Private Whale Watching & Misty Fjords National Park Tour description references high-speed boating through wilderness channels. Several excursions explicitly depart directly from cruise ships, offering shore-friendly options for cruise passengers visiting Ketchikan. Itineraries focus on angling for halibut, salmon, and lingcod, combined with guided wildlife observation across Southeast Alaska locations including the Inside Passage, Misty Fjords, Neets Bay, and Traitors Cove.
Book with Reel Alaska Fishing Charter