Gold and Galligan Lagoon, Alaska: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Alaska, Gold and Galligan Lagoon falls inside Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area. The land about it is mixed woodland. With some 222 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. Ground here is low by Alaska standards. Nearest town is Craig, 36 miles off. Vancouver is the closest city, 621 miles away. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Gold and Galligan Lagoon

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. This is tidal water: the state of the tide decides where fish sit, so plan the session around it. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Records held for Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area cover pink salmon, Chum salmon, Chinook salmon and Coho salmon. Read Gold and Galligan Lagoon for ten minutes before the first cast goes out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year August sits at 57°F and January at 32°F. The year gives four workable seasons without severe ends. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Anyone fishing Gold and Galligan Lagoon regularly works to that calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Sweetwater Lake at 2.2 miles is the sensible second choice. Where Gold and Galligan Lagoon is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.