Juneau Shore Fishing and Glacier View Stop

If you’re looking to combine some Alaskan fishing adventure with breathtaking scenery, the Juneau Shore Fishing and Glacier View Stop tour from Reel1 Fishing Shuttle offers a solid, well-rounded experience. This roughly three-hour excursion is designed for cruise ship travelers eager to add some local flavor to their port day, with opportunities to catch Pacific salmon and Dolly Varden, plus a quick peek at one of Juneau’s most iconic sights—the Mendenhall Glacier.

What we love about this trip is how approachable it is for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. The provided gear, including rods, reels, and waders, makes it easy for anyone to step in and give fishing a try. We also appreciate the scenic drive that takes you to a viewpoint with stunning glacier vistas—no strenuous hikes needed. The only consideration? The overall duration is short, so it might not be enough if you’re eager for a full day of fishing or glacier exploration. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of local outdoor life combined with a quick but memorable sightseeing stop.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels with gear and waders included
• Optimal for cruise travelers with a short time window and convenient location
• Includes a scenic drive to a popular glacier viewpoint for photos and easy sightseeing
• Affordable price point considering gear, transportation, and guided expertise
• Limited fishing time—about 90 minutes—so manage expectations accordingly
• Free cancellation offers flexibility in case plans change

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Location

The tour begins just a short walk from Juneau’s cruise docks, which is a huge plus for travelers with limited time. Meeting at 490 S Franklin St, it’s easy to find and close enough to the bustling downtown area for afterward exploring. The convenience of this central starting point means you don’t need to worry about long transfers or complicated logistics, making it ideal for those on tight schedules or first-time visitors.

The Fishing Adventure

Once you meet your guide, the journey quickly shifts to the main event: fishing. The local fishing spots chosen by Reel1 Fishing Shuttle are known for their abundance of Pacific salmon—including all five species: King, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum—as well as Dolly Varden, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout. This broad selection offers a good chance of catching something, even if you’re new to fishing.

We loved the way the experience is tailored to be inclusive for beginners—gear is provided on-site, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. The provided boot-foot waders mean you can comfortably stand in the water without worrying about getting wet or cold, which is especially appreciated by those who might feel hesitant about fishing in Alaskan waters.

The 90-minute fishing window is enough to get some casting practice and hopefully reel in a fish or two. Though some reviews haven’t specifically rated the fishing success, the fact that the tour targets local species indicates a good shot at catching something. Remember, this is not a full-day fishing expedition, so it’s more about the fun and experience than filling a freezer.

The Scenic Drive and Glacier View Stop

After fishing, your guide takes you on a 15-minute scenic drive through Juneau. This is where the tour really shines; the transport is an air-conditioned vehicle, keeping everyone comfortable as you travel through town. Your destination is a popular photo stop at Brotherhood Bridge, where you’ll get a fantastic vantage point of the Mendenhall Glacier.

Weather permitting, the views of the glacier are unforgettable, giving you a chance to capture some memorable photos. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the proximity to the glacier means you’re still close to one of the most recognizable sights in Juneau.

End of the Tour and Downtown Return

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, giving you plenty of time afterward to continue exploring Juneau. Whether you want to visit the Mendenhall Visitor Center, grab some local seafood, or just enjoy wandering the streets, you’re free to extend your Alaska experience on your own.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour is designed to give you a taste of local life—fishing in Juneau’s waters and enjoying a scenic glacier view—without the need for a full-day commitment or advanced skills. It’s a great way to get outdoors, learn about local fish species, and see some of Alaska’s most iconic natural scenery. Plus, being a small group experience (limited to 11 travelers) means you’ll likely get personalized attention from guides who know the area well.

Considerations

While the experience offers value and convenience, keep in mind that the fishing is only about 90 minutes, so don’t expect to spend an entire day on the water. Also, there’s an optional $15 fishing license fee for anglers aged 16 and over, which is a small additional cost but important to factor in.

Price and Value Analysis

At $199 per person, this tour is a reasonable price considering the gear, transportation, and guide expertise included. The experience provides a nice balance of interactive activity and scenic sightseeing, making it a good choice for those who want to make the most of a limited time in Juneau.

Some may wonder if the fishing success justifies the price; while the tour doesn’t guarantee catches, the overall value lies in the chance to try local fishing, the well-organized logistics, and the chance to snap memorable photos of Mendenhall Glacier.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers with limited time, especially families or groups looking for a relaxed outdoor activity without the need for prior fishing experience. Nature lovers who want a concise taste of Alaska’s outdoor life will find it satisfying, as will those interested in quick glacier sightseeing combined with a fun, interactive activity.

It’s also suitable for travelers who value small group sizes and local guides, ensuring a more personal experience than larger, bus-based tours. If you’re curious about what fishing in Alaska is like or want to tick off a memorable port-of-call activity, this tour checks many boxes.

The Sum Up

The Juneau Shore Fishing and Glacier View Stop tour offers a well-balanced mix of fishing, scenery, and local flavor. With gear provided and an easy location, it’s accessible for all skill levels and perfect for travelers who want to make the most of a few hours in port. The stunning views of Mendenhall Glacier add a memorable backdrop to the adventure, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts.

While it’s not a full-day fishing trip or an extensive glacier expedition, it delivers enough of both to ensure you’ll leave with stories and photos to cherish. Its affordability, convenience, and authentic experience make it a smart choice for those wanting a taste of Juneau’s outdoors without overcommitting.

If you’re looking for a practical, enjoyable way to connect with Alaska’s natural environment—especially if you enjoy the idea of catching your own dinner—this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides all the gear and instructions needed, making it accessible for anyone new to fishing.

How long do we spend fishing?
You’ll have about 90 minutes of fishing time, which is enough to try your luck and enjoy the experience.

What fish species might I catch?
You could catch all five species of Pacific salmon—King, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum—as well as Dolly Varden, cutthroat, and rainbow trout.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic drive to the glacier viewpoint.

Do I need to buy a fishing license?
For travelers aged 16 and over, a $15 fishing license is required and must be purchased separately.

What’s the view like at the glacier stop?
The stop offers a stunning view of Mendenhall Glacier at Brotherhood Bridge, perfect for photos, weather permitting.

Can I continue exploring Juneau afterward?
Absolutely. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you time to explore more of Juneau or visit other sights.

This guide should help you decide if this combo of fishing and glacier views suits your Alaska adventure plans. Whether you’re a fishing novice or simply eager for some iconic scenery, this tour provides a practical, authentic taste of Juneau’s outdoors.