Spearfishing

Alaska Spearfishing
Regulations 2026

Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Alaska. Alaska allows spearfishing in most freshwater and marine waters. A sport fishing license is required. Spearing for king salmon is generally prohibited; regulations vary by drainage.

Saltwater Allowed Freshwater Allowed

2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts Verified 2026

Resident Fee

$25.00

Covered by standard sport fishing license.

Non-Resident Fee

$145.00

Annual license

Saltwater

Allowed

With restrictions

Freshwater

Allowed

Game fish may be banned

Species Regulations

Allowed & Prohibited Species in Alaska

Allowed Species

Most non-salmon fish species; halibut (saltwater)

Prohibited Species

King salmon; species-specific restrictions vary by drainage

Step-by-Step

How to Get a Spearfishing License in Alaska

Purchase a Fishing License

All spearfishing in Alaska requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $25.00.

Know the Rules

Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.

Check Location-Specific Rules

Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game before entering the water.

Requirements

Alaska Spearfishing Requirements

Valid sport fishing license required.

Important Notes

Alaska-Specific Regulations

Alaska allows spearfishing in both freshwater and saltwater with a valid sport fishing license; pole spears, spearguns, and Hawaiian slings are all legal, though specific gear restrictions vary by drainage and species. Spearfishing for salmon in freshwater streams and rivers is prohibited, and halibut may only be taken by speargun in saltwater under the terms of a sport halibut card. Nighttime spearfishing is generally permitted but requires divers to comply with USCG diver-down flag regulations.

Source: Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game (www.adfg.alaska.gov). Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game.

Alaska