ANCHORAGE SALMON EXPRESS

See the famous Alaskan Salmon, Today!

The Salmon Express is a narrated tour that offers a self guided adventure into the lifecycle of Alaska’s salmon. This is a unique opportunity to see, learn, and explore North America’s largest sport fish hatchery. Upon arrival, stroll along the serene path up Ship Creek where every ripple tells a story of survival, renewal, and the profound connection between nature and instinct. Witness schools of Alaska salmon navigating the creek’s currents and waterfall to the eventual end of their journey. Once inside the hatchery, discover at your own pace the meticulous process required to nurture over 6 million sport fish annually to be released in south central Alaska. Every step in the hatchery is designed to enlighten and inspire, from the hatchery’s groundbreaking technology to the natural beauty of Ship Creek’s surroundings. The Salmon express is a wonderful way to spend 1- 3 hours understanding the life cycle of Alaska’s most iconic fish and the importance of the sport fishing industry to Alaska.

1.5-2.5

HOURS

DISCOVER THE HATCHERY

EXPLORE
SHIP CREEK

SEE THE
SALMON

Tour Highlights

Some of the sights, topics, and photo-ops along our route!

Salmon

Meet and explore the wonders of our famous Alaskan salmon, see them in action and learn about their lifecycle all at the Hatchery.

The Hatchery

Discover the largest sport-fish hatchery in North America, restocking over 6 million fish annually into local South Central waters.

Learn the Process

With hours of information and facts to review, walk through the Hatchery and discover the process of sport-fish restocking from start to finish.

See the Salmon

With various viewpoints and up-close discovery areas across the Hatchery, see salmon in action in multiple natural and stock enviornments!

Highlights

Watch Anglers Fish Ship Creek 🎣
Learn the different ways we catch salmon in Alaska!

Witness Schools of Alaska Salmon 🐟
Stroll along the serene path up Ship Creek as Alaska salmon navigate against the creek’s currents.

Visit the Dam 🦫
Watch and wait to see the Alaska Salmon jump out of the waters.

Explore the Hatchery 🗺️
Discover the hatchery’s pivotal role in supporting Alaska’s ecosystems, sport fishing communities, and local economies.

Salmon

At A Glance

Embark on a fascinating journey through the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery and delve into the captivating world of Alaska’s salmon. Witness the intricate lifecycle of these majestic fish, from their early stages to their eventual release into the wild waters of southcentral Alaska. Within the hatchery’s walls, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of salmon species, including Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon, among others. Marvel at the diversity of colors and sizes as you explore the hatchery’s tanks, where over six million fish are nurtured annually.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the hatchery is its state-of-the-art technology, which enables the facility to operate sustainably while producing an impressive quantity of fish. Through innovative water recirculation systems, the hatchery minimizes water usage, conserving resources and reducing environmental impact.

Pink (Humpy) Salmon

Alaska's prolific breeding Salmon, not stocked by hatcheries and has the shortest life-span of two years.

Chinook (King) Salmon

Largest and Mightiest of the Pacific Salmon family.

Chum (Dogs) Salmon

The Wildest member of the Pacific Salmon family, not stocked by any hatchery and can live up to 7 years.

Coho (Silver) Salmon

Alaska's most fished member of the Pacific Salmon family.

Sockeye (Reds) Salmon

The Famous Alaskan Salmon, caught mainly by locals in specific locations. Not stocked by the Hatchery, but caught freely throughout South Central Alaska.

The Hatchery

The largest Sport-Fish Hatchery in North America, nurturing over 6 million sport fish to be annually released in strategic locations in south central Alaska.

Learn about our Salmon

With hours of information listed throughout the Hatchery, dive into the science behind Alaska's fish and game industry, our hatcheries, and learn more about the different types of local salmon.

See the Salmon

The Hatchery boasts several various up-close viewpoints to witness our wild salmon in action, ranging from interior locations to creek-side views.

Hatchery

At A Glance

Step into the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery and immerse yourself in the beating heart of Alaska’s sport fish stocking program. Spanning a vast 141,000 square feet, this facility stands as the largest indoor sport fish hatchery in North America. Here, over six million fish are reared annually in more than 100 meticulously maintained tanks, supporting Alaska’s thriving fishing industry.

State-of-the-art water recirculation technologies ensure efficient use of resources, with water consumption reduced by a staggering 95% compared to conventional hatcheries. This commitment to sustainability is further underscored by the hatchery’s Envision rating, a testament to its dedication to environmental stewardship. Explore the hatchery’s inner workings and marvel at the seamless blend of groundbreaking technology and natural beauty, all in service of nurturing Alaska’s iconic salmon species for generations to come.

Culture

At A Glance

Witness the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of Ship Creek, where local fishermen cast their lines in pursuit of the day’s catch. Led by our knowledgeable local Alaskan guides, you’ll gain unique insights into the rich fishing culture that thrives in this rugged land. Learn about the deep-seated connection between Alaskans and the bountiful waters that surround them, as well as the traditions and techniques passed down through generations. From tales of legendary catches to the importance of sustainability in fishing practices, our guides will paint a vivid picture of the vital role fishing plays in the lives of Alaskans.

As you continue your journey to the hatchery, you’ll carry with you a newfound appreciation for the enduring passion that Alaskans have for fishing. Whether you’re an avid angler or simply curious about local traditions, our tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the soul of Alaskan fishing culture, leaving you inspired by the resilience and love that permeates this timeless way of life.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

ADDRESS

546 West 4th Avenue Anchorage, AK 99516

PHONE

+1 (907) 276 - 5603

EMAIL US

SALMON EXPRESS SCHEDULE

Log Cabin Visitor Center Departure Times

Anchorage Hatchery Pick Up Times

Ulu Factory Pick Up Times

Log Cabin Visitor Center

Join us by the cozy Log Cabin Visitor Center to kick off your Salmon Express adventure! Please arrive 10 minutes before your chosen pick-up time.

Anchorage Hatchery

Meet us right outside the Anchorage Hatchery—your Salmon Express adventure awaits!Please arrive 5 minutes before your desired pick-up time.

The Ulu Factory

Meet Us in front of the charming Ulu Factory sign—your Salmon Express adventure awaits! Please Arrive 5 minutes before your desired pick up time.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

Local Fishing

From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.

Salmon Express Pricing

Adults

$25.00 USD per person for persons 12 years of age or older.

Children

$12.50 USD for persons under 12 years of age.

Infants

For infants or toddlers who will be seated on an adult's or child's lap, the Salmon Express is free of charge per infant.

Other Info

Read our reviews, learn more about our trolleys, or expand your knowledge about our other tours. Our trolleys are our bread and butter, and are treated as such! With daily maintenance and sanitation, we prioritize comfort and cleanliness on all of our tours. Be sure to check out our reviews for guest-perspectives and fun memories made on our tours, as well as insight into our efficiency and procedures. For any unanswered questions, check out our FAQs page, or Call Us now – we’re happy to help!

Salmon Express Vehicle Info

Total Capacity: 28 Guests
Two Guests per Seat-Bench
Small Storage Area Behind Back Two Seats
Seats are First-Come First-Serve!
Food and Drink are Welcome Aboard
Heating-Cooling Temperature Control
Comfortable Seating
Clean and Clear Windows

ANCHORAGE SALMON EXPRESS