FISH South

Overview

FISH South is a domestic submarine cable system designed to enhance connectivity across six coastal and island communities in Alaska, United States. Spanning a total length of 900 kilometers, the cable is set to provide a reliable high-speed communication link in a region known for its challenging geography and limited terrestrial infrastructure. Scheduled to be ready for service in 2027, FISH South aims to address the connectivity needs of remote areas, improving internet access and telecommunications reliability for residents and businesses alike. The project reflects the strategic importance of submarine cables in bridging the digital divide in isolated regions.

Route and Landings

The FISH South submarine cable connects six landing points along Alaska's southeastern coast: Cordova, Gustavus, Hoonah, Juneau, Pelican, and Yakutat. These locations are situated in a region characterized by rugged coastlines, fjords, and scattered islands, making traditional terrestrial fiber deployment challenging. Cordova, the westernmost landing point, lies near the Gulf of Alaska, while the other locations are distributed along the Inside Passage, a network of waterways known for its natural beauty and maritime significance.

Juneau, Alaska's state capital, serves as a key hub in the network due to its population density and administrative importance. Gustavus and Hoonah, both small communities, are gateways to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pelican, a remote fishing village, and Yakutat, known for its surfing and fishing industries, are also included in the network, ensuring connectivity for these isolated areas. The route's design reflects a commitment to providing equitable access to modern telecommunications across diverse and geographically dispersed communities.

Ownership and History

The FISH South submarine cable is owned and operated by Cordova Telecom Cooperative, a regional telecommunications provider dedicated to serving Alaska's remote communities. The cooperative has a history of investing in infrastructure to overcome the unique challenges posed by Alaska's vast and rugged terrain. By deploying FISH South, Cordova Telecom Cooperative aims to complement existing terrestrial fiber routes and satellite links, creating a more robust and resilient telecommunications network in the region.

Submarine cables like FISH South are critical in Alaska, where mountainous terrain and harsh weather conditions often make the installation and maintenance of land-based infrastructure prohibitively difficult. The cable is part of a broader effort to modernize the state's communication systems, ensuring that even the most isolated communities have access to reliable, high-speed internet. The project underscores the importance of local initiatives in addressing the connectivity needs of underserved regions.

What Our Measurements Show

Although FISH South is not yet operational, our monitoring of similar submarine cable systems in Alaska suggests that the cable will significantly enhance connectivity in the region. Submarine cables typically offer lower latency and higher bandwidth compared to satellite links, which are commonly used in remote areas. This improvement is particularly important for applications requiring real-time data transmission, such as telemedicine, online education, and business operations.

Our probes indicate that the cable's route through the Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska is strategically advantageous. These waters, while occasionally subject to harsh weather, are relatively sheltered compared to open ocean routes, reducing the risk of damage from environmental factors. Additionally, the cable's multiple landing points ensure redundancy and resilience, allowing for uninterrupted service even if one segment experiences issues. Once operational, FISH South is expected to play a vital role in supporting the economic and social development of Alaska's coastal and island communities.