Deep Creek beach (Ninilchik)

The feel

This is gravel beach at the mouth of Deep Creek, inside Deep Creek State Recreation Area, where shore anglers surf-cast for halibut and intercept salmon off the creek mouth. The place is better known for its tractor-launched halibut boats, but the gravel is also surf-castable, so you can fish from the bank with spin gear and bait.

A large campground and a day use area run along the beach next to the riverbank, and the beach is popular for clamming and ATV riding. Crowds are medium.

What to expect

Water and access

Deep Creek State Recreation Area beach at the creek mouth, Mile 137 Sterling Highway. Ocean water, fished from the gravel.

Species and timing

Halibut May through August, surf-cast. Kings in the nearshore late May to Jun when open. Pinks and silvers off the creek mouth in late summer; coho run August to September at 6-12 lb.

Methods and gear

Bank, spin and bait.

License and rules

Kings are only fished when open, so check the current regulations before you cast.

Crowds and best time

Medium crowds. Fishing is big-tide dependent.

Parking

A daily parking fee applies in the recreation area.

Season and access

May to September.

Mingo says

Plan your day around the big tides, since the fishing here depends on them. Come late May to June for kings when they are open, or late summer for pinks and silvers.

Before you go

• Call Marine Services at (907) 567-3526 for current tractor launch pricing if you plan to launch a boat.
• In July the tractor launch hours run from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and hours vary by date.
• Pay the daily parking fee, and check the Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations for open king days.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.