The Pillars Boat Launch

The Pillars Boat Launch is a public boat launch on The Pillars.

It is part of the Alaska public boat-access system, maintained by the the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The Pillars Boat Launch is a trailer boat launch.

The site is managed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The Pillars is open to public fishing, boating and paddling across the rivers, lakes and coast of Alaska. Anglers here target king, silver, sockeye, pink and chum salmon, rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling and lake trout.

Alaska's rivers and coast are famous for salmon runs, trophy rainbows, and saltwater halibut and rockfish.

On a lake like this, weed edges, drop-offs, points and structure hold fish through the open-water season.

The Pillars Boat Launch is a public access point to The Pillars for trailered boats, kayaks and canoes.

This launch sits on The Pillars; look for other public access points, marinas and shoreline fishing spots along the same water, and check the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for the full list of access sites nearby.

Conditions are usually milder than big water, but wind can still build a chop on open stretches. Watch for shallow bars, stumps and swimmers near shore, and check the forecast before a long run.

Carry U.S. Coast Guard–required safety gear, wear your life jacket, file a float plan for longer trips, and remember that spring and fall water is cold enough to cause hypothermia quickly.

An Alaska fishing license is required for most adult anglers. Follow the Alaska Department of Fish and Game's seasons, size and creel limits, which vary by water and species.

Clean, Drain and Dry: remove all aquatic plants and animals, drain every compartment, and never move live fish or bait between waters — this is how invasive species like zebra mussels and invasive carp spread.

Observe posted launch rules, no-wake and idle zones near the ramp, and any local watercraft controls.

Stage your gear before backing down to keep the lanes moving, especially on busy mornings. Check the ramp depth for your boat's draft, and rig the trailer lights to handle a dunk.

Arrive early on summer weekends for parking, and have a plan for wind direction before you launch on open water.