For even the most inexperienced anglers, fishing for shrimp in the freezing-cold waters of Southeast Alaska is a highly rewarding experience. Also known as “shrimping”, fishermen send netted baskets, or pots, hundreds of feet down to the ocean floor. After 24-48 hours, the shrimp-filled pots are pulled back up to the surface. This minimal-effort activity is a great way to enjoy nature and the delicious resources it has to offer.

While there are six types of shrimp native to Alaska, spotted prawns and tiger prawns are the most commonly found in Ketchikan. Spotted prawns are often found near rocks structures anywhere from 200 to 400 feet below the water’s surface. Tiger prawns are typically found 600 feet below the surface.

For first-time fisherman and those who don’t have access to proper equipment, fully-guided and self-guided tours make shrimping accessible. At Salmon Falls Resort in Ketchikan, guests have the option to go on fully-guided excursions with skilled fishermen. In addition to expert fishing advice and access to top-of-the-line fishing equipment, the boats are equipped with heated cabins — a must for Alaskan fishing. For experienced fishermen, self-guided tours are a more affordable option.

After a recent trip to Salmon Falls, Caliber co-founder and COO Jennifer Schrader raved about her experience catching shrimp, “I’m hooked! It was super fun. Just being on the boat and seeing the beautiful Alaskan coastline, the wildlife, the anticipation of waiting for the pot to come up, the various sea life that comes with, and popping the heads off.”

During the day, it’s important to be aware of the tides as prime shrimping occurs during low tide, when shrimp tend to be more concentrated.

In addition, open season for shrimping runs from April 15 to Sept. 15 as shrimp seasonally migrate from deep winter waters to shallow summer waters. Peak Alaskan salmon fishing also occurs during the summer and can provide anglers with something to do while waiting on shrimp pots.

Alaskan fishing is cold, so it’s crucial to dress properly for the occasion. Water-proof jackets, wading boots, gloves, and a warm hat are all essential items.

As far as fishing equipment goes, Salmon Falls guided tours are fully equipped with everything you could possibly need, like pots and bait.

Depending on when and where you decide to shrimp, Salmon Falls General Manager Matt Herod estimates guests can expect to catch anywhere between 25-50 shrimp a day. Per Alaskan fishing regulations, boats are limited to 10 shrimp pots a day for each person.

Once you’ve finished shrimping, it’s time for the most important part: making sure all of that freshly caught shrimp doesn’t go to waste! During the summer, The Timbers at Salmon Falls prepares many delicious shrimp dishes. Of those menu items, Schrader recommends the butter poached shrimp with tomatoes and croutons. “I didn’t even like eating shrimp before this. They’ve quickly become one of my favorite dishes to make,” she said.

In addition to the plethora of fresh shrimp dishes cooked on-site, Salmon Falls will process, vacuum pack, freeze, and box up any guest catches to fly home as checked luggage.

Open from the beginning of May until the end of September, Salmon Falls Resort is the perfect summer vacation. All-inclusive packages include three meals a day, airport transfers, fishing equipment, fully-guided tours, fish processing, and accommodations. Click here to view the different getaway packages offered by the resort.