Ketchikan is a beloved fishing destination, but the outdoor adventures it offers don’t end there.

In September of 2019, I was one of them.

Although Ketchikan has very much been impacted, it also found a silver lining.

Colorful buildings on stilts over a river in Ketchikan, Alaska

Credit:Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

As more Americans started to explore travel options within U.S. borders,Alaskamoved its way up bucket lists.

And as more people started to look for COVID-safe activities, fishing did the same.

Here’s why it’s the perfect place for afather-daughter trip.

Salmon Falls Ketchikan Alaska deck with corn hole and games

Nina Ruggiero

Accommodations are relaxed and friendly.

The fish are biting and the food is fresh.

You could sample most of this seafood from the Salmon Falls menu, and then some.

Self-guided boats at the Salmon Falls dock in Ketchikan, Alaska

Nina Ruggiero

Subtly sweet when eaten raw, we loved them even more when grilled with a sriracha-garlic sauce.

Outdoor adventures and animal sightings abound.

It was one of two animal sightings on the trip that would completely take our breath away.

Fish hang at the docks at Salmon Falls Alaska

Nina Ruggiero

In many moments, but especially that one, we were so glad we did.

Nina Ruggiero is Travel + Leisure’s deputy digital editor.

Find her on Instagram@ninamarienyc.

Woods and stream hiking in Ketchikan, Alaska

Nina Ruggiero

Misty Fjord National Monument from above in a Carlin Air float plane

Nina Ruggiero