Fishing and subsistence activities are prevalent. Economy Yakutat's economy is dependent on fishing, fish processing and government. 174 residents hold commercial fishing permits. A cold storage plant is the major private employer. Recreational fishing opportunities, both saltwater and freshwater fishing in the Situk River, are world-class.
Most residents depend on subsistence hunting and fishing.
Salmon, trout, shellfish, deer, moose, bear and goats are harvested. The soil is not suitable for agricultural activities. There are scheduled jet flights, air taxis and float plane services to Yakutat. A seaplane base is available. The U.S. Forest Service also owns six airstrips in the vicinity.