About Sitka, Alaska

Situated on the west side of Baranof Island and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, islands, bays and inlets, Sitka is a natural wonder ripe with a vibrant history. Everywhere you look you’ll find Mother Nature’s handiwork, from bald eagles, seals, and sea lions to whales, and sea otters. Plus, the fishing is amazing.

Sitka was originally named Shee-Atika by Tlingit (pronounced Klink-et) natives. Russians were the first settlers to Sitka in 1799. By 1840, Bishop Innocent (Ivan Veniaminon) had St. Michael's Cathedral built in downtown Sitka. Sitka was the Capitol during Russia's reign of Alaska. Russia sold Alaska to the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million – just pennies per acre. Today, you’ll find plenty of reminders of the Tlingit and Russian histories throughout the community.

Finding Sitka
Sitka is accessible by plane or boat. Call Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air at 800-426-0333. They have daily flights into Sitka from Seattle. In addition, the Alaska Marine Highway Ferries provide ferry services to Sitka. They can be reached at 800-642-0066.

Why Sitka, Alaska?

• Highest catch rate for King salmon in Southeast Alaska: You will catch more fish.
• Consistent fishing May-September: Continues migration of fish and no down time.
• Ocean bright feeding salmon: Fish bite all day long. Better fighting fish. The best table fare.
• Multiple species each day on the water: Catch salmon, halibut and bottom fish in the same day.
• Fish are densely schooled feeders: Multiply hook-ups are common.
• No strong tidal currents to tend with: Fish halibut anytime of the day
• Inside/Outside waters: Never loose a days fishing to weather.
• Direct flights into Sitka via Seattle, WA: You can get to Sitka in just one day.
• Commercial planes (Boeing 737): No added expense for a floatplane.
• No float planes: More certainty that you’ll get here on time and get home as planned.

Things to see and do in Sitka
Alaska Raptor Center
Sheldon Jackson Museum
Russian Bishops House
Isabel Miller Museum
St. Michael's Cathedral
Tlingit Cultural Tours
Sitka Sound Seafoods, Inc.