So, you just reeled in a massive halibut or a cooler full of fresh-caught Alaskan salmon — now what? If you’re visitingKetchikan on a cruise or a short Alaska trip, you might be wondering how to get your prized catch back home without it spoiling. The good news: shipping your fish home is easy, convenient, and something we help with all the time.

In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to package, process, and ship your fish after your Ketchikan fishing trip — whether you’re flying or cruising out.

1.  Let Your Charter Handle the Heavy Lifting

At Ketchikan Fishing Expeditions, we partner with trusted local fish processors who specialize in vacuum-sealing, flash-freezing, and overnight shipping. Once you finish your fishing trip, we’ll deliver your catch directly to the processor — no extra effort required on your part.

You get to relax and enjoy the rest of your cruise or Alaskan vacation while the pros prepare your fish for the journey home.

2.  Choose How You Want It Processed

Local processors offer a variety of options, including:

• Vacuum-sealed fillets (perfect for freezing)
• Portion-sized packaging
• Smoked salmon (a popular souvenir or gift)

You can even have your fish processed multiple ways, depending on the size of your catch.

3.  Shipping Options Made Simple

There are a few options for getting your fish home:

A.  Ship It Overnight

• Your processor can arrange overnight shipping via FedEx to your
• Your fish will arrive frozen solid, packed in an insulated box with gel packs or dry ice.
• This is the most popular option for cruise passengers who can’t travel with the fish.

 B.  Check It as Airline Luggage

• If you’re flying out within a day or two, you can bring your boxed fish as a checked cooler.
• Alaska Airlines and other carriers are used to passengers traveling with fish and allow it as part of your luggage allowance.
• Your processor will give you everything you need — just pick it up before your flight.

4.  How Much Does It Cost to Ship Fish from Alaska?

Shipping and processing fees vary based on:

• Weight of the fish
• Processing style (filleting, smoking, )
• Shipping destination

On average, expect to pay:

• Around $2–$3 per pound for processing
• $75–$150 for overnight shipping to the continental S.

Tip: Many guests say it’s worth every penny to enjoy fresh wild-caught salmon at home for months after their trip.

5.  Can You Bring Fish on a Cruise Ship?

Cruise lines typically do not allow raw or processed fish to be stored onboard, so your best bet is to ship it. However, if you’re staying in Alaska after your cruise or flying shortly after disembarking, checking it as luggage is totally doable.

Final Tips

• Make sure to provide your full shipping address and phone number for delivery
• Let your guide know in advance if you plan to ship your fish — we’ll make all the arrangements for you.

Ready to Fish (and Feast)?

A fishing trip in Ketchikan is the adventure of a lifetime — and with a little planning, the flavor of that adventure cancome home with you. At Ketchikan Fishing Expeditions, we’ll make sure your catch is handled with care and delivered to your doorstep, just the way you want it.

Book your fishing charter today and get ready to fill your freezer with wild Alaskan flavor!

Cheers, 

Capt. Aaron Ramirez