Fishing Whale Watching Hoonah Alaska

Our review explores a popular tour that combines fishing and whale watching in the scenic waters near Hoonah, Alaska. While we haven’t personally experienced this trip, the details and reviews suggest it offers a genuine chance to connect with the area’s marine life and rugged beauty. Whether you’re after a serene fishing outing or a wildlife-packed boat ride, this tour has appealing elements worth considering.

Two things we really like about this experience are the well-equipped, heated boat—which ensures comfort even in cooler weather—and the intimate group size, with a maximum of six travelers. That means plenty of space, personalized attention, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost, with a price tag of $284 per person, which might feel steep for some—especially when additional costs like fishing licenses aren’t included.

Still, if you’re looking for a focused, small-group adventure with a chance to see whales and other wildlife, this tour is likely to be a good fit.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate nature, are eager to see marine mammals, and want a more personalized outing rather than crowded boat tours. It’s also ideal for those who value comfort onboard, thanks to the heated cabin and bathroom facilities. If you’re after a short but memorable excursion during your Alaskan trip, this tour offers a balance of wildlife viewing and fishing in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Small Group Advantage: Only six passengers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Comfortable Vessel: A 2019 North River boat with a heated cabin and bathroom, perfect for cooler days.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect to see whales, sea otters, sea lions, and possibly other wildlife in the icy strait waters.
• All Necessary Gear: Provided, so you don’t need to bring your own fishing equipment.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes a mix of wildlife viewing and fishing, with a focus on Icy Strait waters near Hoonah.
• Pricing & Inclusions: Price is $284 per person, but note that fishing licenses and taxes are not included.

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Alaska’s marine life while providing the comfort of a modern vessel. Operating since 2008 with a 2019 boat, Ear Mountain Charters has a proven track record of delivering engaging, authentic adventures. The boat itself is a 32-foot North River with twin 250 horsepower engines and a 25 HP trolling motor—meaning plenty of power for the often-challenging Alaskan waters, plus enough space for six guests to spread out comfortably.

The itinerary begins at Hoonah City Harbor, where you’ll meet your guides and board the boat. The main focus is a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise through the Inside Passage, where the scenery is as stunning as the wildlife is plentiful. You’ll traverse icy strait waters near Icy Strait Point, a destination renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and abundant marine life.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Inside Passage Exploration
Most of your time will be spent navigating the icy strait waters, a rich habitat for whales and other marine creatures. The guides will take you to promising spots for sightings, and the boat’s design allows for excellent viewing opportunities. Expect to see humpback whales, known for their spectacular breaching and tail slapping behaviors. The reviews consistently highlight the variety of whale behaviors observed, which can make the experience both exciting and educational.

Along With whales, you’re likely to spot sea otters and sea lions, often seen lounging on rocks or playing in the water. Some reviewers have even been lucky enough to see bears orcas, making each trip potentially unique. The natural beauty of the icy waters, with floating ice and rugged coastlines, makes for extraordinary photo opportunities.

The Wildlife Experience
One reviewer shared that their three-day whale/nature watching trip included “a wide variety of humpback behaviors and play,” along with encounters with sea otters, sea lions, and even a bear. This suggests that depending on the conditions, you might see a diverse array of wildlife, making this tour more than just a boat ride.

Fishing Gear & Experience
All the necessary fishing gear is included, allowing you to try your luck at catching local species. Remember, fishing licenses are not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan to fish. The focus here is on relaxing, guided fishing, combined with wildlife viewing, making it a great option for those who enjoy both activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort & Convenience
With a heated cabin and a clean bathroom onboard, you won’t have to endure the usual cold or discomfort common on open boats. You can settle in, enjoy the scenery, and chat with your guides without feeling rushed or cramped.

Small Group Intimacy
Limited to six travelers, the tour emphasizes a more personalized experience. This is especially valuable in wildlife trips, where guides can tailor their spotting and commentary to the group’s interests.

Expert Guides & Local Knowledge
The company has been operating since 2008, and their guides are familiar with the waters, wildlife patterns, and best spots for sightings. One reviewer appreciated the guides’ knowledge, noting an “outstanding experience on every level.”

At $284 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s important to view it through the lens of value. You’re paying for expert guidance, comfortable facilities, and a small, focused group in a prime wildlife habitat. The experience offers a good chance to see whales in their natural environment, along with other marine animals, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

Since additional costs like fishing licenses aren’t included, if you plan to fish, you should budget for those separately. The tour’s duration—about three hours—makes it a manageable, half-day outing that won’t overly consume your day or travel budget.

Given the positive reviews and the detailed itinerary, many travelers will find this tour offers authentic wildlife encounters in a comfortable setting. It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers who prefer small-group adventures over large, crowded tours.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized and comfortable wildlife experience in Alaska. If you enjoy being close to nature, watching whales, and exploring marine ecosystems, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small groups—the maximum of six travelers enhances interaction with guides and a more exclusive feel.

However, if your main goal is an extensive fishing expedition or a luxury cruise experience, you might find this tour more modest in scope. Still, for a short, wildlife-focused adventure with the added comfort of a heated cabin and bathroom, it hits the right notes for many visitors.

The Sum Up

In short, this whale watching and fishing tour in Hoonah offers a balance of comfort, intimacy, and wildlife encounters. It’s designed for those who want a relaxed, guided experience with the chance to see whales and other marine animals in their natural habitat. The small-group setting, combined with a well-maintained vessel, makes for a memorable outing perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

While the price may seem high, the included amenities, expert guides, and potential for unforgettable sightings make it a worthwhile investment for travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan marine adventure. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, fishing, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, this tour provides a solid, well-rounded experience that highlights the best of Hoonah’s waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?
No, all necessary fishing gear is provided for the species you hope to catch. Just remember, fishing licenses are not included and need to be purchased separately.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits the number of travelers to six, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience with your guides.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, giving you enough time for wildlife viewing and fishing without it feeling rushed.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the vessel is a 2019 North River with a heated cabin and bathroom facilities, making it suitable for cooler days or those who prefer comfort.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, and possibly orcas and bears, depending on the day’s conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip, with a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refunded, but poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

If you’re looking for a small-group, wildlife-rich adventure with comfortable amenities in the waters near Hoonah, this tour is well worth considering. It offers a real chance to see Alaska’s marine life in an authentic, relaxed setting—perfect for nature lovers who want to get close without sacrificing comfort.