Shelter Bay

The feel

Shelter Bay is on Hinchinbrook Island, reached by air or by boat from Cordova. A Forest Service cabin stands here, a rustic 20x20-foot building that sleeps six on bunks without mattresses. It has a wood and oil stove and an outhouse, but no running water or electricity.

The outlet channel is a known coho spot, and the inlet creek has Dolly Varden. Fly fishing for sea-run cutthroat is possible around the outlet. Pink and chum salmon are here too.

What to expect

Water and access

Ocean water on Hinchinbrook Island. Floatplane at high tide (20 minutes from Cordova), or wheeled plane at low tide on a landing strip 350 yards north of the cabin. By boat, 50 miles from Cordova.

Species and timing

Coho in August and September. Pink and chum salmon and Dolly Varden in July and August.

Methods and gear

Fly fishing for sea-run cutthroat around the outlet.

Hazards

Boaters should inquire about local conditions before entering the bay.

Bathrooms and water

An outhouse at the cabin and no running water.

Season and access

Coho in August and September; pinks, chums and Dolly Varden in July and August.

Mingo says

Go in August or September for coho. Fish in July if Dolly Varden are your target.

Before you go

• Reserve the cabin at 1-877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov, and confirm booking details first.
• Bring your own bedding, fuel, water, food and cooking gear.
• Ask about local conditions before boating into the bay.

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