The species of fish that anglers are allowed to retain in Sitka, Alaska, ocean fishing can vary depending on regulations set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) and the federal government. These regulations are designed to promote sustainable fisheries management and conservation of fish stocks. Here's a general overview of some common species anglers are typically allowed to retain in Sitka, Alaska, ocean fishing:
 

1. Salmon:

   • King Salmon (Chinook)

     • King salmon, revered for their robust size and flavor, are renowned as the hardest fighters among all salmon species and are highly prized for their delectable taste.
        

   • Coho Salmon (Silver)

     • ​Coho salmon, characterized by their vibrant silver color and firm texture, are known for their acrobatic leaps and are prized by anglers for their strong fighting ability and rich flavor.
        

   • Sockeye Salmon (Red)

     • ​Sockeye salmon, recognized for their distinctive deep red flesh and robust flavor, are infrequently caught due to their food preference, but are highly sought after by seafood enthusiasts for their exceptional taste and firm texture.
        

   • Pink Salmon (Humpy)

     • ​Pink salmon, with their distinctive pink coloration and smaller size, are often utilized as bait for halibut due to their abundance and availability, making them an effective and economical option for anglers targeting these bottom-dwelling giants.
        

   • Chum Salmon (Dog)

     • ​Chum salmon, known for their mottled greenish-brown coloration and firm flesh, are frequently underestimated as table fare, yet when caught fresh from the ocean, their ocean-bright condition yields delicious, flavorful meals that are often overlooked by many.
        

2. Halibut:

   • Pacific Halibut

     • ​Pacific halibut, characterized by their flat, diamond-shaped bodies and white underbellies, are prized by anglers for their firm, mild-flavored flesh and impressive size, making them one of the most sought-after species in Alaskan waters.
        

3. Pelagic Rockfish:

   • Black, Dusky, Yellowtail, Widow, Blue, Dark Rockfish

     • ​Pelagic rockfish, with their streamlined bodies and silvery coloration, are deep-sea dwellers known for their strong swimming abilities and tendency to inhabit open waters rather than rocky reefs. They are firm and flaky and have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, offering a delightful culinary experience.
        

4. Lingcod:​​

   • Lingcod, characterized by their mottled greenish-brown coloration and large, menacing jaws, are formidable predators sought after by anglers for their aggressive strikes and succulent, white flesh.
     ​​

5. Pacific Cod:​

   • ​Pacific cod, recognized by their elongated bodies and mottled brown coloration, are characterized for their mild, flaky white flesh, making them a versatile and popular choice in various culinary dishes.
      

6. Other Groundfish:

   • Black Cod (Sablefish)

     • Black cod, also known as sablefish, are distinguished by their sleek, dark-colored skin and rich, buttery flavor, making them a sought-after delicacy prized by seafood connoisseurs. They are often referred to as 'Black Gold'.
        

   • Arrowtooth Flounder

     • ​Arrowtooth flounder, identifiable by their elongated bodies and distinctive arrow-shaped teeth, are generally not preferred as table fare due to their coarse texture and strong, fishy taste, making them less desirable for culinary purposes compared to other flounder species.
        

   • Dover Sole

     • ​Sole, with their slender, flat bodies and subtle, delicate flavor, are sometimes undervalued despite commanding high prices in markets like New York, where they can fetch upwards of $40 per plate due to their exceptional taste and culinary versatility.
        

7. Other Species:

   • Some species of sharks (check regulations for specific species and restrictions)

   • Various pelagic species such as Pacific Herring, Pacific Hake, Pacific Sand Lance, Pollock, and Pacific Mackerel
      

It's crucial for anglers to familiarize themselves with the most current fishing regulations and restrictions for the specific area they plan to fish in Sitka, Alaska. These regulations may include size limits, bag limits, seasonal closures, and gear restrictions, and they can vary depending on factors such as species, location, and time of year. Anglers can obtain the latest fishing regulations from the ADF&G website, local fishing authorities, or fishing charter operators in Sitka. Following these regulations helps ensure the sustainability of fish populations and the health of marine ecosystems.