The community built a salmon hatchery on Tamgas Bay which develops and releases millions of fry of all five salmon species. The largest employer is the Metlakatla Indian Community, which operates the hatchery, the tribal court, and all local services. The Annette Island Hemlock Mill produces cants from high quality saw logs. Annette Island Packing Co. is a cold storage and cannery owned by the community. 51 residents hold commercial fishing permits.
Residents rely on salmon, halibut, clams and waterfowl for food.
Transportation Metlakatla is accessible by air and water. Scheduled float plane services are available from Ketchikan. While there are two paved runways built during World War II, they are not used by commercial airlines. Port facilities include a dock with a barge ramp, two small boat harbors, and two marine ways. The Corps of Engineers is providing major improvements to Tamgas Harbor.