Jay Lake, Alaska: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  The Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area entry here is Jay Lake, in Alaska. The coast is 1.9 miles away. About 6 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It is a small entry by Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area standards. Craig sits 23 miles from here and is the nearest stop. Further out sit Wrangell (62 miles) and Petersburg (74 miles). There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Jay Lake

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. This is a lake, so the margins and the first drop matter most. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. County-wide records name pink salmon, Chum salmon, Chinook salmon, Coho salmon and sockeye salmon. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Jay Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give August about 56°F and January about 34°F. Mild ends to the year keep the season long. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Time your trip to Jay Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Ownership and access are not documented in what we hold. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Check locally before you travel, because a wasted drive is a long one. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. For a change of water, Island Lake is 0.2 miles distant. Check the position on Jay Lake before loading the car.