What Hollis Anchorage Offers

Hollis Anchorage is a small, protected saltwater harbor on the west side of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska. It sits at the terminus of the Alaska Marine Highway ferry route from Ketchikan, making it the primary gateway for anglers traveling to the island's interior and outer waters. The anchorage itself is shallow and sheltered, used mainly by the ferry and commercial fishing vessels, but the surrounding waters and nearby streams hold halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and seasonal runs of salmon.

The real fishing value of Hollis lies in what you can reach from it. The harbor provides access to some of the most productive saltwater grounds in Southeast Alaska within 30 minutes by skiff, plus road access to streams and lakes across Prince of Wales Island. If you are planning a multi-day trip to fish the outer islands or the island's interior, Hollis is often your entry point and your resupply hub.

Key Takeaways

  • Hollis Anchorage itself is a working harbor with limited shore fishing; the value is as a base for reaching halibut and lingcod grounds, salmon streams, and remote lakes nearby.
  • The Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Ketchikan arrives at Hollis; plan for a 45-minute crossing and book passage weeks ahead during peak season.
  • Halibut fishing peaks May through September, with June and July typically the strongest months for size and numbers.
  • A rental skiff or guide service is nearly essential for accessing productive saltwater grounds; shore-based fishing is limited to nearby streams and the ferry terminal area.
  • Prince of Wales Island has no road connection to the Alaska highway system, so plan to fly into Ketchikan first or arrive by ferry from another Southeast port.

Getting to Hollis Anchorage

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry MV Stikine runs between Ketchikan and Hollis on a fixed schedule, typically departing Ketchikan in the morning and arriving at Hollis in the early afternoon. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes. During summer months (May through September), the ferry runs daily or nearly daily; in winter, service drops to several times per week. Fares vary by season and passenger type, and vehicle passage (if you bring a rental car or truck) costs significantly more than foot passage.

Book your ferry passage at dot.alaska.gov/amhs at least two to three weeks before your intended travel date during peak season. Walk-on space fills quickly in June and July. If you are flying into the region, Ketchikan International Airport is the main hub; from there, ground transportation to the ferry terminal is available through taxi, rental car, or hotel shuttles.

Once at Hollis, the small terminal has basic facilities but no fuel dock or major services. The nearest town with lodging, groceries, and boat rentals is Klawock, approximately 20 miles south by road. Some anglers stay in Hollis itself at one of a few small lodges or cabins, but options are limited and should be booked well in advance.

Halibut and Lingcod Fishing Near Hollis

The waters immediately west and southwest of Hollis Anchorage hold productive halibut grounds in depths of 150 to 300 feet. Halibut season in this area runs year-round, but the strongest fishing occurs from May through September, with June and July typically producing the largest fish and most consistent action. Lingcod inhabit shallower rocky areas and reefs at 80 to 150 feet and are present throughout the year, though they are most aggressive in spring and early summer.

Halibut fishing requires a skiff and proper tackle—heavy jigging gear or live bait rigs rated for deep water. Most visiting anglers hire a guide or rent a skiff with a motor; a few lodges in the area offer package deals that include boat and tackle. Lingcod can be taken on similar gear but also respond well to jigging with smaller lures. Both species require a valid Alaska fishing license and are subject to daily bag limits set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game; check current regulations before you fish.

Weather in Southeast Alaska is unpredictable, and saltwater conditions can change rapidly. Plan for rain, wind, and rough water even in summer. Most guides and rental operators will not venture out in dangerous conditions, so build extra days into your trip if you are on a tight schedule.

Salmon Streams and Road-Accessible Water

Prince of Wales Island has numerous streams and small rivers that support runs of pink, chum, coho, and Chinook salmon at different times of year. Many of these streams are accessible by road from Hollis or Klawock. Pink salmon typically run July through August, coho run August through October, and Chinook are present in smaller numbers throughout summer. Chum salmon run in fall and are less commonly targeted by sport anglers.

Stream fishing does not require a guide, but access varies. Some streams flow through private land, and you will need permission to cross. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game publishes a detailed stream catalog that identifies public access points and seasonal timing for each drainage. Bring this information with you or download it before you travel, as cell service on Prince of Wales Island is spotty.

Stream fishing tackle is lighter than saltwater gear—a 6- to 8-foot rod with 8- to 12-pound line works well for most salmon. Flies, spinners, and small spoons are all effective depending on the stream and the time of year. Waders and waterproof boots are essential; streams are cold year-round and water levels can rise quickly after rain.

Lakes and Interior Fishing

Prince of Wales Island contains dozens of small lakes and ponds that hold cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and in some cases landlocked salmon. Many are accessible by short hikes from the road system or by floatplane. Lakes are typically less crowded than streams and can offer excellent fishing for smaller fish in a quieter setting.

Floatplane access is the most reliable way to reach remote lakes; several operators based in Ketchikan and Klawock offer charter flights. Costs run from several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on distance and party size, so this option works best for groups or multi-day trips. Some lakes have public-use cabins maintained by the U.S. Forest Service; these book months in advance and require a small nightly fee.

Lake fishing requires a light rod, small flies or spinners, and patience. Fish are often selective and not accustomed to heavy pressure. Cutthroat and Dolly Varden are the primary targets; both are beautiful fish but typically smaller than ocean-run salmon or halibut.

Regulations, Licenses, and Seasons

All fishing in Alaska requires a valid Alaska fishing license, available online at adfg.alaska.gov or through local vendors in Ketchikan and Klawock. Non-resident licenses are available for 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, or a full year; most visiting anglers purchase a 7-day or 14-day license. Fees vary by license type and residency status.

Saltwater fishing (halibut, lingcod, rockfish) has no additional stamp requirement, but daily bag limits apply. Salmon fishing in streams and saltwater requires a separate salmon stamp if you plan to keep fish. Regulations change annually and vary by specific water body, so check the current Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations booklet before you fish. Guides and lodge operators will have current information, but it is your responsibility to know the rules.

Catch-and-release fishing does not require a stamp, but if you intend to keep any fish, you must have the appropriate license and stamp in your possession while fishing.

When to Fish Hollis and Nearby Waters

The peak season for visiting Hollis is June through August, when weather is most stable, ferry service is frequent, and all fish species are present. Halibut fishing is strong throughout this period, with June and July typically the best months. Salmon runs peak in July and August depending on species. Accommodations and guide services are fully booked during these months, and prices are at their highest.

May and September are shoulder seasons with fewer crowds, lower prices, and still-productive fishing. May halibut fishing can be excellent, and September offers good coho salmon fishing in streams. October through April is winter; weather is severe, ferry service is reduced, and many lodges and guide services close. Winter fishing is possible but requires experience, proper gear, and flexibility with your schedule.

Plan your trip at least two months in advance if you are traveling in summer. Book your ferry passage, lodging, and any guide or skiff rental services early. If you are flexible with dates, traveling in May or September will give you better availability and lower costs while still offering solid fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to hire a guide to fish Hollis and Prince of Wales Island?

A guide is not required for stream fishing or lake fishing, but it is strongly recommended for saltwater halibut and lingcod fishing. Guides know the productive grounds, can navigate safely in variable weather, and handle the heavy tackle required for deep-water fishing. If you are experienced with saltwater fishing and comfortable operating a skiff in Southeast Alaska conditions, you can rent a boat and fish independently, but this requires significant skill and local knowledge.

What is the best time of year to catch large halibut near Hollis?

June and July typically produce the largest halibut and the most consistent action. Halibut fishing is possible year-round, but spring and early summer are when fish are most aggressive and most abundant. Water temperature and seasonal feeding patterns make late spring and early summer the prime window for trophy-sized fish.

Can I fly directly to Hollis, or do I have to take the ferry from Ketchikan?

There is no commercial air service to Hollis. The ferry from Ketchikan is the primary way to reach the anchorage. You can also reach Prince of Wales Island by floatplane to other locations on the island, but Hollis itself is ferry-only for scheduled passenger service. Floatplane charters can land on nearby water if needed, but this is expensive and typically used only for reaching remote fishing locations.

What should I pack for a fishing trip to Hollis?

Bring waterproof rain gear, warm layers (fleece or wool), waterproof boots, and a hat. Southeast Alaska weather is cold and wet even in summer. If you are saltwater fishing, bring seasickness medication if you are prone to it. Bring your fishing license and any required stamps before you arrive. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp are also useful. Most lodges and guide services provide tackle and some gear, but confirm what is included before you book.

Are there restaurants or stores in Hollis itself?

Hollis is a very small community with minimal services. There is no grocery store or restaurant at the ferry terminal. Klawock, about 20 miles south, has a general store and a few dining options. Plan to eat before you arrive or arrange meals through your lodge. If you are staying in a cabin or renting a skiff, bring groceries with you or plan to resupply in Klawock.