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Damn Good Sockeye Salmon Fishing Charters In Alaska

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Recently Booked Sockeye Salmon Fishing Charters In Alaska

Fishing in Healy

River Fishing Trip in Healy

Alaska Float Fishing

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Fishing in Kasilof

River Fishing Trip in Kasilof

Soldotna Day Trip

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20 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,950
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Ketchikan

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ketchikan

Ketchikan Multi-Day Fishing

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28 ft
Fishing in Cohoe

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Cohoe

Kasilof River King Salmon Trip

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20 ft 1 - 4 People From $450

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Other Trips in Alaska

Fishing in Healy
Fishing in Healy
Fishing in Healy
trip description for Alaska Float Fishing in Healy

For those seeking the ultimate Alaska wilderness fishing adventure, we have the float trips. For these, we fly into the remote headwaters of some of the most productive salmon and trout rivers on the planet, in southwest Alaska (see Where We Fish link), hundreds of miles from real civilization, for exciting multiday float/fish/camp safaris down crystal-blue rivers filled with fish. Using SOTAR (State of the Art Raft) inflatable drift boats, we float silently through lonely alpine valleys, canyons, rolling tundra, and forested lowlands−sanctuaries of solitude, where man’s world is but a dream. Amazingly productive sight fishing for salmon, rainbow trout, charr and grayling is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace as you serenely drift along, taking time to stop and fish secret holes, or stretch legs with a short hike to take pictures, view wildlife, pick berries or just admire the magnificent surroundings. The trips are done with small groups (4-6 average, 8 people max), led by the best river guides in the business (guide to client ratio of 1:2 usually on these trips), who will assist you any way they can to ensure your safety, comfort and enjoyment. You will make camp along the river each evening at a great fishing spot, allowing for maximum time to enjoy your sport (unlike at the fishing lodges where your day ends at the dinner call.) Meals on these trips are hearty and wholesome and include superb, grilled fish lunches and dinners, fresh from Alaska’s cold, clean waters. Floating silently in rafts through the heart of these wild rivers allows for a much more intimate experience of Alaska’s fabled backcountry than is possible staying in a lodge or permanent tent camp. Wildlife encounters−bears, moose, caribou, wolves and countless waterfowl− along these remote rivers are extraordinary, so be sure to bring a good camera and moderate telephoto lens. As you will be getting in and out of the rafts and wading and casting in moderate to swift flowing waters, you should be in good physical condition. The season for these float fishing expeditions runs from mid-June to mid-September. What We Provide: All necessary camping and rafting equipment (except your personal gear and fishing equipment), meals, guides, transportation from and back to point of departure in southwest Alaska (Aniak, Bethel or Dillingham). Accommodations: Deluxe tent camps along the river Not Included: You must bring your own personal gear and fishing equipment (we will send you a detailed list of our gear recommendations upon booking). You are responsible for flight arrangements from Anchorage to and from southwest Alaska (we will tell you the specific point of departure to book your flight to). Also not included are hotel and meal costs incurred by extended layovers due to weather or other factors beyond our control, fishing licenses, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities. Tour Length & Price: 7 days/6 nights, $4200/person, all-inclusive from POD. Sample Float Trip Itinerary: Arrive in Anchorage late afternoon or early evening the day before start of expedition; check into hotel, then meet with guides that evening to go over gear and any last minute instructions. Day 1: Depart Anchorage for Southwest Alaska early AM. Weather permitting, fly out to headwaters in late morning or early afternoon. Depending on time, either set up camp and spend leisurely late afternoon-evening fishing around camp or launch rafts and begin float fishing adventure. Day 1-6: Float, fish and camp, making your way down river, setting up final camp on evening of the 6th day. Day 7: Spend morning fishing around camp, while guides break down gear and prepare for pickup. Pick up and return to point of departure in early afternoon. Catch early evening flight back to Anchorage, then red-eye back home or spend night in Anchorage hotel with return to home the following morning. Read More

River Fishing Trip in Healy

Alaska Float Fishing

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for King Salmon Standard Package in King Salmon

Katmai Trophy Lodge is located on the banks of the famed Naknek River, perfectly situated on the edge of tide water, giving us quick access to both ocean- fresh salmon and the trophy rainbow trout fishing that the Naknek is famous for. This is a full-service fishing lodge in the heart of Bristol Bay just two miles outside the boundary of the world- renowned Katmai National Park. You may have heard that the Bristol Bay watershed is home to the largest runs of salmon in the world. A lesser known fact is that it is also Alaska’s only designated “Trophy Rainbow Trout” area. The river system starts in the snow-capped mountains of Katmai National Park flowing down through our beautiful chain of lakes, through rolling tundra hills, ending with the Naknek flowing into the Bering Sea. This unspoiled nutrient rich environment enables the fish to grow to incredible size. With salmon runs that number in the millions, Trout and Char that grow well over 30”, and some of the best bear viewing in the world, this trip is a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise! Bristol Bay is home to some of the largest runs of salmon in the world; You'll get to target the giant Rainbow Trout, Char and the rare and beautiful Grayling that inhabit these fertile waters. The fishing portion of your trip will be spent on the water with your guide, which is why the guides at Katmai Trophy Lodge take great pride in providing their guests with some of the best fishing guides in Bristol Bay. All of their guides are expert fly fishermen in their own right, able to instruct you in the latest techniques, provide you with the best in tackle and flies and help you succeed in having the best fishing experience possible. Their boats and fishing gear are customized to give you the greatest chance for success and feature products from Orvis, Simms, StealthCraft and Koffler Boats, Scott and Temple Fork Fly Rods and Hatch fly reels. They consider the famous Brooks River and Falls a must-see attraction, which is why they have included a trip to Brooks in every one of the standard packages. The Brooks River offers world class trout fishing in a small stream setting, and a tremendous sockeye salmon run that feeds an entire ecosystem, including a few dozen of the world’s largest bears. So make sure to bring your camera! The guides at Katmai partner with Branch River Air and their meticulously maintained fleet of float planes to offer fly out packages to the other famous Bristol Bay destinations like the American, Alagnak, Nushagak, Moraine, Ugashik and Kulik as well as many of the small gems hidden around the more remote sections of southwest Alaska. **Tour Length & Price:** 7 day "Standard" package - $4,995 per person It includes 7 nights lodging and meals and 6 days of guided fishing, including 1 day of guided fishing/bear viewing on the famous Brooks River. 7 day "Best of Bristol Bay" package -$6,595 per person This package adds 3 guided float plane fly-outs (weather dependent) to our standard package. 7 day “Unlimited” Package - $6,995 per person. Includes 6 days of guided fishing anyplace your heart desires (weather dependent). River, fly-outs, day raft trips? We’ve got you coved. Minimum of 2 people needed to book this package. This package includes guided fishing anywhere you and your fishing partner(s) choose each day with the only limitation being to keep the float plane flight under 45 minutes one way. **Lodging:** This classic riverfront log lodge features two stories of glass looking out on the beautiful Naknek River. Dinner is prepared by a professional chef featuring Alaskan favorites like salmon, halibut, Alaskan clams and reindeer. Evenings can be spent tying flies and swapping fish stories in the comfortable great room or in your private room or cabin. The rooms feature amenities like full time electricity, a mini-fridge, individually controlled heat, log furniture and a private bathroom with shower. **Daily Routine:** Each evening at dinner your guides will discuss the fishing options available for the next day. You will then choose the option that sounds the best to you and, weather permitting, they will make it happen. One of the most challenging parts of your trip might very well be trying to decide whether to fly out to one of the many rivers across Bristol Bay or stay closer to home to chase giant rainbows, catch another limit of salmon, jet boat up one of the Naknek tributaries, or jump on one of our larger boats to explore Naknek Lake and the many small streams that feed into it or boat over to Brooks Falls. For those of you that believe in the old adage that variety is the spice of life, Katmai Trophy Lodge is the perfect destination. If you so choose, you can target a different fish on a new river with a different technique every day. Here is what your schedule will look like: Breakfast at 7am Fishing at 8am Lunch on the water around noon Dinner at 6:30pm Quiet time after 10pm **What's Included:** Pick up and drop off at King Salmon Airport US Coast Guard and ADF&G licensed guides Breakfast and Dinner at the main lodge Grilled or packed shore lunch All necessary flies and lures All terminal fishing gear, rods and reels Cleaning and Vacuum packing of salmon for flying home Linens, comforter, private bathroom with hot/cold water. Daily maid service Waders and wading boots are available but are limited in size. **Not Included:** Flights to and from King Salmon Fishing on Saturday Alcohol Taxes ($161 USD) Fishing License and King Stamp Tips for staff and guides Fish Box or Cooler (insulated fish boxes can be purchased at the lodge for $20) **What to Bring:** At Katmai Trophy Lodge they will do their best to provide everything you need, but they also recognize that catching a fish on your own rod with your own fly is a truly special experience. Throughout the Summer the selection of flies and lines do change but here is a list of essentials that are always going to be good to bring along: Breathable Waders with non felt sole wading boots. You will fish from boats quite a bit but waders are going to be required to fish most days in order to be the most effective. A good Wading Jacket or Rain Jacket. It rains most days in Bristol Bay and a good jacket will make those rainy days just as pleasant as the sunny days. Layers. Most days your guides start off with a fleece jacket or a puff coat and if it is June, July, or August they might take a couple layers off, but it is always better to be able to take a layer off than to need an extra layer and not have it. A Backpack to bring along everyday to keep your fly boxes and extra layers in or even to shed that rain jacket when the sun peaks out. **If You Bring Your Own Fly Rod and Equipment:** 5 or 6 weights for small streams and fly outs. They typically rig them with an indicator to nymph with or just a standard 9 ft leader and a small streamer or mouse. The Flies they use vary as the seasons change but they like to use traditional nymphs as well as dry flies for most of the summer until the eggs start flowing and then they replace the dry flies with Beads. The beads they use are in 6, 8, and 10mm sizes and they usually will stay in the more natural colors. With lighter rods they do like to throw streamers and mice. Medium size streamers with stinger hooks and cone or bead heads are very useful because they will sink with a floating line. 7 or 8 weights for the Naknek river or Larger rivers. You will fish these on the main river with Floating line or a 250 or 300 grain sink tip and streamers or floating line and indicator. Flies for the main river include a lot of streamers with love jointed and stinger hook streamers because these rainbows love to tail nip, but the Naknek river in a 1 hook river to remember to trim your front hook. Flies like Sex dungeons, string leeches, and dolly lamas are all must haves. 9 weights for salmon. If you are fishing for Kings they rig these up with 350 grain or heavy sink tips and big bright flies. If you are targeting Silvers or Chums then they run a floating line and bright flies as well. For Sockeye they nymph them with bottom bouncing rigs with either shooting line or floating line. Intruder style flies are the go to for them when targeting all of the salmon except sockeye. Pink, orange, chartreuse with weighted eyes and a stinger hook, and bright dolly lamas with the heaviest cone heads. When targeting Sockeye they use large nymphs with strong hooks, as these fish will bend hooks no problem. Pheasant tails, wooly buggers, egg flies, and all of the classic Salmon and Steelhead nymphs all work great. Spey rods; They love the 2 hand game at KTL and they like to run 7 or 8 weight spey rods for trout with a skagit head and a sink tip and sculpin or leech style flies almost all summer and fall. They also will run 8 or 9 weight spey rods for Kings with skagit heads and bright intruder flies. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Lake Fishing Charter in King Salmon

King Salmon Standard Package

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for Best of Bristol Bay Package in King Salmon

Katmai Trophy Lodge is located on the banks of the famed Naknek River, perfectly situated on the edge of tide water, giving us quick access to both ocean- fresh salmon and the trophy rainbow trout fishing that the Naknek is famous for. This is a full-service fishing lodge in the heart of Bristol Bay just two miles outside the boundary of the world- renowned Katmai National Park. You may have heard that the Bristol Bay watershed is home to the largest runs of salmon in the world. A lesser known fact is that it is also Alaska’s only designated “Trophy Rainbow Trout” area. The river system starts in the snow-capped mountains of Katmai National Park flowing down through our beautiful chain of lakes, through rolling tundra hills, ending with the Naknek flowing into the Bering Sea. This unspoiled nutrient rich environment enables the fish to grow to incredible size. With salmon runs that number in the millions, Trout and Char that grow well over 30”, and some of the best bear viewing in the world, this trip is a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise! Bristol Bay is home to some of the largest runs of salmon in the world; You'll get to target the giant Rainbow Trout, Char and the rare and beautiful Grayling that inhabit these fertile waters. The fishing portion of your trip will be spent on the water with your guide, which is why the guides at Katmai Trophy Lodge take great pride in providing their guests with some of the best fishing guides in Bristol Bay. All of their guides are expert fly fishermen in their own right, able to instruct you in the latest techniques, provide you with the best in tackle and flies and help you succeed in having the best fishing experience possible. Their boats and fishing gear are customized to give you the greatest chance for success and feature products from Orvis, Simms, StealthCraft and Koffler Boats, Scott and Temple Fork Fly Rods and Hatch fly reels. They consider the famous Brooks River and Falls a must-see attraction, which is why they have included a trip to Brooks in every one of the standard packages. The Brooks River offers world class trout fishing in a small stream setting, and a tremendous sockeye salmon run that feeds an entire ecosystem, including a few dozen of the world’s largest bears. So make sure to bring your camera! The guides at Katmai partner with Branch River Air and their meticulously maintained fleet of float planes to offer fly out packages to the other famous Bristol Bay destinations like the American, Alagnak, Nushagak, Moraine, Ugashik and Kulik as well as many of the small gems hidden around the more remote sections of southwest Alaska. **Tour Length & Price:** 7 day "Standard" package - $4,995 per person It includes 7 nights lodging and meals and 6 days of guided fishing, including 1 day of guided fishing/bear viewing on the famous Brooks River. 7 day "Best of Bristol Bay" package -$6,595 per person This package adds 3 guided float plane fly-outs (weather dependent) to our standard package. 7 day “Unlimited” Package - $6,995 per person. Includes 6 days of guided fishing anyplace your heart desires (weather dependent). River, fly-outs, day raft trips? We’ve got you coved. Minimum of 2 people needed to book this package. This package includes guided fishing anywhere you and your fishing partner(s) choose each day with the only limitation being to keep the float plane flight under 45 minutes one way. **Lodging:** This classic riverfront log lodge features two stories of glass looking out on the beautiful Naknek River. Dinner is prepared by a professional chef featuring Alaskan favorites like salmon, halibut, Alaskan clams and reindeer. Evenings can be spent tying flies and swapping fish stories in the comfortable great room or in your private room or cabin. The rooms feature amenities like full time electricity, a mini-fridge, individually controlled heat, log furniture and a private bathroom with shower. **Daily Routine:** Each evening at dinner your guides will discuss the fishing options available for the next day. You will then choose the option that sounds the best to you and, weather permitting, they will make it happen. One of the most challenging parts of your trip might very well be trying to decide whether to fly out to one of the many rivers across Bristol Bay or stay closer to home to chase giant rainbows, catch another limit of salmon, jet boat up one of the Naknek tributaries, or jump on one of our larger boats to explore Naknek Lake and the many small streams that feed into it or boat over to Brooks Falls. For those of you that believe in the old adage that variety is the spice of life, Katmai Trophy Lodge is the perfect destination. If you so choose, you can target a different fish on a new river with a different technique every day. Here is what your schedule will look like: Breakfast at 7am Fishing at 8am Lunch on the water around noon Dinner at 6:30pm Quiet time after 10pm **What's Included:** Pick up and drop off at King Salmon Airport US Coast Guard and ADF&G licensed guides Breakfast and Dinner at the main lodge Grilled or packed shore lunch All necessary flies and lures All terminal fishing gear, rods and reels Cleaning and Vacuum packing of salmon for flying home Linens, comforter, private bathroom with hot/cold water. Daily maid service Waders and wading boots are available but are limited in size. **Not Included:** Flights to and from King Salmon Fishing on Saturday Alcohol Taxes ($161 USD) Fishing License and King Stamp Tips for staff and guides Fish Box or Cooler (insulated fish boxes can be purchased at the lodge for $20) **What to Bring:** At Katmai Trophy Lodge they will do their best to provide everything you need, but they also recognize that catching a fish on your own rod with your own fly is a truly special experience. Throughout the Summer the selection of flies and lines do change but here is a list of essentials that are always going to be good to bring along: Breathable Waders with non felt sole wading boots. You will fish from boats quite a bit but waders are going to be required to fish most days in order to be the most effective. A good Wading Jacket or Rain Jacket. It rains most days in Bristol Bay and a good jacket will make those rainy days just as pleasant as the sunny days. Layers. Most days your guides start off with a fleece jacket or a puff coat and if it is June, July, or August they might take a couple layers off, but it is always better to be able to take a layer off than to need an extra layer and not have it. A Backpack to bring along everyday to keep your fly boxes and extra layers in or even to shed that rain jacket when the sun peaks out. **If You Bring Your Own Fly Rod and Equipment:** 5 or 6 weights for small streams and fly outs. They typically rig them with an indicator to nymph with or just a standard 9 ft leader and a small streamer or mouse. The Flies they use vary as the seasons change but they like to use traditional nymphs as well as dry flies for most of the summer until the eggs start flowing and then they replace the dry flies with Beads. The beads they use are in 6, 8, and 10mm sizes and they usually will stay in the more natural colors. With lighter rods they do like to throw streamers and mice. Medium size streamers with stinger hooks and cone or bead heads are very useful because they will sink with a floating line. 7 or 8 weights for the Naknek river or Larger rivers. You will fish these on the main river with Floating line or a 250 or 300 grain sink tip and streamers or floating line and indicator. Flies for the main river include a lot of streamers with love jointed and stinger hook streamers because these rainbows love to tail nip, but the Naknek river in a 1 hook river to remember to trim your front hook. Flies like Sex dungeons, string leeches, and dolly lamas are all must haves. 9 weights for salmon. If you are fishing for Kings they rig these up with 350 grain or heavy sink tips and big bright flies. If you are targeting Silvers or Chums then they run a floating line and bright flies as well. For Sockeye they nymph them with bottom bouncing rigs with either shooting line or floating line. Intruder style flies are the go to for them when targeting all of the salmon except sockeye. Pink, orange, chartreuse with weighted eyes and a stinger hook, and bright dolly lamas with the heaviest cone heads. When targeting Sockeye they use large nymphs with strong hooks, as these fish will bend hooks no problem. Pheasant tails, wooly buggers, egg flies, and all of the classic Salmon and Steelhead nymphs all work great. Spey rods; They love the 2 hand game at KTL and they like to run 7 or 8 weight spey rods for trout with a skagit head and a sink tip and sculpin or leech style flies almost all summer and fall. They also will run 8 or 9 weight spey rods for Kings with skagit heads and bright intruder flies. Read More

River Fishing Trip in King Salmon

Best Of Bristol Bay Package

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for Katmai Trophy Lodge in King Salmon

Katmai Trophy Lodge is located on the banks of the famed Naknek River, perfectly situated on the edge of tide water, giving us quick access to both ocean- fresh salmon and the trophy rainbow trout fishing that the Naknek is famous for. This is a full-service fishing lodge in the heart of Bristol Bay just two miles outside the boundary of the world- renowned Katmai National Park. You may have heard that the Bristol Bay watershed is home to the largest runs of salmon in the world. A lesser known fact is that it is also Alaska’s only designated “Trophy Rainbow Trout” area. The river system starts in the snow-capped mountains of Katmai National Park flowing down through our beautiful chain of lakes, through rolling tundra hills, ending with the Naknek flowing into the Bering Sea. This unspoiled nutrient rich environment enables the fish to grow to incredible size. With salmon runs that number in the millions, Trout and Char that grow well over 30”, and some of the best bear viewing in the world, this trip is a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise! Bristol Bay is home to some of the largest runs of salmon in the world; You'll get to target the giant Rainbow Trout, Char and the rare and beautiful Grayling that inhabit these fertile waters. The fishing portion of your trip will be spent on the water with your guide, which is why the guides at Katmai Trophy Lodge take great pride in providing their guests with some of the best fishing guides in Bristol Bay. All of their guides are expert fly fishermen in their own right, able to instruct you in the latest techniques, provide you with the best in tackle and flies and help you succeed in having the best fishing experience possible. Their boats and fishing gear are customized to give you the greatest chance for success and feature products from Orvis, Simms, StealthCraft and Koffler Boats, Scott and Temple Fork Fly Rods and Hatch fly reels. They consider the famous Brooks River and Falls a must-see attraction, which is why they have included a trip to Brooks in every one of the standard packages. The Brooks River offers world class trout fishing in a small stream setting, and a tremendous sockeye salmon run that feeds an entire ecosystem, including a few dozen of the world’s largest bears. So make sure to bring your camera! The guides at Katmai partner with Branch River Air and their meticulously maintained fleet of float planes to offer fly out packages to the other famous Bristol Bay destinations like the American, Alagnak, Nushagak, Moraine, Ugashik and Kulik as well as many of the small gems hidden around the more remote sections of southwest Alaska. **Tour Length & Price:** 7 day "Standard" package - $4,995 per person It includes 7 nights lodging and meals and 6 days of guided fishing, including 1 day of guided fishing/bear viewing on the famous Brooks River. 7 day "Best of Bristol Bay" package -$6,595 per person This package adds 3 guided float plane fly-outs (weather dependent) to our standard package. 7 day “Unlimited” Package - $6,995 per person. Includes 6 days of guided fishing anyplace your heart desires (weather dependent). River, fly-outs, day raft trips? We’ve got you coved. Minimum of 2 people needed to book this package. This package includes guided fishing anywhere you and your fishing partner(s) choose each day with the only limitation being to keep the float plane flight under 45 minutes one way. **Lodging:** This classic riverfront log lodge features two stories of glass looking out on the beautiful Naknek River. Dinner is prepared by a professional chef featuring Alaskan favorites like salmon, halibut, Alaskan clams and reindeer. Evenings can be spent tying flies and swapping fish stories in the comfortable great room or in your private room or cabin. The rooms feature amenities like full time electricity, a mini-fridge, individually controlled heat, log furniture and a private bathroom with shower. **Daily Routine:** Each evening at dinner your guides will discuss the fishing options available for the next day. You will then choose the option that sounds the best to you and, weather permitting, they will make it happen. One of the most challenging parts of your trip might very well be trying to decide whether to fly out to one of the many rivers across Bristol Bay or stay closer to home to chase giant rainbows, catch another limit of salmon, jet boat up one of the Naknek tributaries, or jump on one of our larger boats to explore Naknek Lake and the many small streams that feed into it or boat over to Brooks Falls. For those of you that believe in the old adage that variety is the spice of life, Katmai Trophy Lodge is the perfect destination. If you so choose, you can target a different fish on a new river with a different technique every day. Here is what your schedule will look like: Breakfast at 7am Fishing at 8am Lunch on the water around noon Dinner at 6:30pm Quiet time after 10pm **What's Included:** Pick up and drop off at King Salmon Airport US Coast Guard and ADF&G licensed guides Breakfast and Dinner at the main lodge Grilled or packed shore lunch All necessary flies and lures All terminal fishing gear, rods and reels Cleaning and Vacuum packing of salmon for flying home Linens, comforter, private bathroom with hot/cold water. Daily maid service Waders and wading boots are available but are limited in size. **Not Included:** Flights to and from King Salmon Fishing on Saturday Alcohol Taxes ($161 USD) Fishing License and King Stamp Tips for staff and guides Fish Box or Cooler (insulated fish boxes can be purchased at the lodge for $20) **What to Bring:** At Katmai Trophy Lodge they will do their best to provide everything you need, but they also recognize that catching a fish on your own rod with your own fly is a truly special experience. Throughout the Summer the selection of flies and lines do change but here is a list of essentials that are always going to be good to bring along: Breathable Waders with non felt sole wading boots. You will fish from boats quite a bit but waders are going to be required to fish most days in order to be the most effective. A good Wading Jacket or Rain Jacket. It rains most days in Bristol Bay and a good jacket will make those rainy days just as pleasant as the sunny days. Layers. Most days your guides start off with a fleece jacket or a puff coat and if it is June, July, or August they might take a couple layers off, but it is always better to be able to take a layer off than to need an extra layer and not have it. A Backpack to bring along everyday to keep your fly boxes and extra layers in or even to shed that rain jacket when the sun peaks out. **If You Bring Your Own Fly Rod and Equipment:** 5 or 6 weights for small streams and fly outs. They typically rig them with an indicator to nymph with or just a standard 9 ft leader and a small streamer or mouse. The Flies they use vary as the seasons change but they like to use traditional nymphs as well as dry flies for most of the summer until the eggs start flowing and then they replace the dry flies with Beads. The beads they use are in 6, 8, and 10mm sizes and they usually will stay in the more natural colors. With lighter rods they do like to throw streamers and mice. Medium size streamers with stinger hooks and cone or bead heads are very useful because they will sink with a floating line. 7 or 8 weights for the Naknek river or Larger rivers. You will fish these on the main river with Floating line or a 250 or 300 grain sink tip and streamers or floating line and indicator. Flies for the main river include a lot of streamers with love jointed and stinger hook streamers because these rainbows love to tail nip, but the Naknek river in a 1 hook river to remember to trim your front hook. Flies like Sex dungeons, string leeches, and dolly lamas are all must haves. 9 weights for salmon. If you are fishing for Kings they rig these up with 350 grain or heavy sink tips and big bright flies. If you are targeting Silvers or Chums then they run a floating line and bright flies as well. For Sockeye they nymph them with bottom bouncing rigs with either shooting line or floating line. Intruder style flies are the go to for them when targeting all of the salmon except sockeye. Pink, orange, chartreuse with weighted eyes and a stinger hook, and bright dolly lamas with the heaviest cone heads. When targeting Sockeye they use large nymphs with strong hooks, as these fish will bend hooks no problem. Pheasant tails, wooly buggers, egg flies, and all of the classic Salmon and Steelhead nymphs all work great. Spey rods; They love the 2 hand game at KTL and they like to run 7 or 8 weight spey rods for trout with a skagit head and a sink tip and sculpin or leech style flies almost all summer and fall. They also will run 8 or 9 weight spey rods for Kings with skagit heads and bright intruder flies. Read More

River Fishing Trip in King Salmon

Katmai Trophy Lodge

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for Naknek River Camp Do-It-Yourself in King Salmon

A trip to the best trophy Rainbow Trout river in Alaska is now available for under $4000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy Rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

River Fishing Trip in King Salmon

Naknek River Camp Do-It-Yourself

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for Naknek River All-Inclusive in King Salmon

An all-inclusive trip to the best trophy rainbow river in Alaska is now available for under $5000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

River Fishing Trip in King Salmon

Naknek River All-Inclusive

NEW
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
Fishing in King Salmon
trip description for Naknek River Camp Deluxe Package in King Salmon

A deluxe 7-day trip to the best trophy rainbow river in Alaska is now available for under $7000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

River Fishing Trip in King Salmon

Naknek River Camp Deluxe Package

NEW
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Ketchikan
Fishing in Ketchikan
Fishing in Ketchikan
trip description for Ketchikan Multi-Day Fishing in Ketchikan

Escape to Ketchikan, Alaska, for the adventure of a lifetime! Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the world and as such has an epic King and Silver Salmon run every year. Warm ocean currents and spring runoff create an ideal habitat for millions of bait fish, which in return creates a perfect environment for all types of Salmon. The Halibut, Lingcod, and 20 other fish species are abundant and offer an array of fishing opportunities! Salmon Falls is your basecamp for this adventure. Your overnight package includes all your meals—all you have to do is decide the type of room to begin each new day. Matt and his team are committed to making this the best fishing trip ever for all guests! From seasoned pros to new anglers baiting a hook for the first time, they will make sure you enjoy the adventure of a life time. Their custom fleet of new boats and top of the line gear, experienced Alaskan guides, and location make for a recipe of success. With the fully-guided fishing package, one of these experienced captains will assist you on your fishing trip in one of their Riddle Marine 27.5 ft. boats, equipped with a heated cabin, standing/private heads, surround sound music, shock-absorbent seats, dual 200 Honda outboards, and an arsenal of top-of-the-line fishing gear. These guides will assist you in finding the best location, baiting hooks, reeling in your catch, and anything else you may need while aboard. Skilled fishermen? These captains are happy to step back and let you fish your way! Lunch and fish processing are included. **Fish Processing:** The best part of a fishing trip is cooking for friends and family when you return home. Once you’ve landed those salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish your job is done. Salmon Falls resort fish processing is included all of these inclusive packages. Leave the cleaning, cutting, and packaging to the expert crew of fish processors. Their onsite expert fish processors will guide you to the correct cut whether it be steaks or fillets. Be sure to note the approximate yields of each fish: Salmon 45%, Halibut 45%, Lingcod-20%, Rockfish- 15% The processing crew trims, fillets, vacuum packs, and flash freezes it for travel on your airline. Fish will stay frozen for appx 20+ hours depending on location. At Salmon Falls Resort, fish boxes accompany guest as luggage and travel under airlines weight restrictions. On departure day the onsite crew will ensure your fish is packed and ready to go and will deliver to the airport shuttle. If you plan to continue your travel before returning home, the crew can recommend shipping options for future delivery. **Accomodation:** Based on double occupancy. Double Queen, Double Full and King Suites are all options based on availability. The $100/Person Resort Fee Includes: WI-FI throughout the property Live entertainment five nights/week Round-trip airport transfers Access to the Adventure Lounge All-weather gear: waterproof jacket, pants and rain boots In-room bottled water Local telephone calls Souvenir Salmon Falls postcard with free postage (available at the front desk) **Meals:** Dinner on arrival day, three meals on full days & breakfast on departure day. Boxed lunches are provided for fishing. Breakfast, lunch & dinner are available on-site at Timbers Restaurant. **On-Site Activities:** From hiking to beach-combing, any exploration activity on-property is included in your rate. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ketchikan

Ketchikan Multi-Day Fishing

NEW
28 ft
Fishing in Kasilof
Fishing in Kasilof
Fishing in Kasilof
trip description for Soldotna Day Trip in Kasilof

Join Reubin for a memorable, action-packed fly fishing experience on Alaska’s beautiful Kenai Peninsula! Enjoy the peace and quiet while drifting down the river and casting lines. Reubin's trips take place in Soldotna, Alaska, the home of the famous Kenai River and world record King Salmon. The Kenai Peninsula and surrounding areas offer freshwater and saltwater sport fishing opportunities for both the novice fisherman and the lifetime angler! On this full-day trip, Reubin will drift you up and down the Kenai River as you enjoy the scenery and fly fish for Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Pink Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, and Steelhead. Whether it's your first time holding a fly rod or you have all the casting techniques down, Reubin will give you plenty of expert tips to help get one on the line! You'll be fishing aboard a 20' Willie Predator drift boat that can take up to 4 guests. Its 50 HP Yamaha motor will have no problem maneuvering you to where the fish are biting! This lightweight vessel comes equipped with GPS, Fishfinder and a Live Bait Well. Reubin will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is an Alaska fishing license, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any food or drinks you might want out on the water. Reubin loves Alaska and hopes to help you enjoy this special place. You’ll find his professional, down-home hospitality and his warm reception hard to surpass.Book your trip today and get ready to catch some serious Salmon! Read More

River Fishing Trip in Kasilof

Soldotna Day Trip

NEW
20 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,950
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
trip description for Talkeetna Area Day Fishing Trip in Talkeetna

This is the perfect trip for getting out and experiencing some of the best fly fishing in the world. Your trip includes an experienced guide, all fishing gear (but feel free to bring your own), and wade boots. Just make sure to bring your chest waders, snacks/lunch, and a fishing license. You'll be fishing a number of rivers around Talkeetna depending on where the bite is hottest. If you're looking to make a multi-day trip, cabin rentals are available upon request. Read More

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Talkeetna

Talkeetna Area Day Fishing Trip

100% (2)
1 - 4 People From $470
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
trip description for Alaskan Wilderness Flyout in Talkeetna

This is the perfect trip for anglers looking to experience the true, remote, and rugged Alaskan Wilderness in its pristine beauty! Fly out to a beautiful lake or stream for this fabulous 8-hour trip where you'll be fishing for Rainbow Trout, Arctic Grayling and Lake Trout. These lakes are located high in the Talkeetna Mountains, providing wonderful views and abundant wildlife. Dave will take you out to the best spot depending on water conditions and where the fish are biting! This is a fully guided adventure. Your trip includes an experienced guide, all fishing gear (but feel free to bring your own), wade boots, and round-trip 45 minute fly-outs. Just make sure to bring your chest waders, snacks/lunch, and a fishing license. If you're looking to make a multi-day trip, cabin rentals are available upon request. Tight Lines! Read More

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Talkeetna

Alaskan Wilderness Flyout

100% (2)
1 - 4 People From $995
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
Fishing in Talkeetna
trip description for Pike in the Alaska Wilderness in Talkeetna

This is the perfect trip for anglers looking to experience the true, remote, and rugged Alaskan Wilderness in its pristine beauty! Fly out to a beautiful lake or stream for this fabulous 8-hour trip where you'll be targeting some Pike, with opportunities to catch Rainbow Trout, Arctic Grayling and Lake Trout. These lakes are located high in the Talkeetna Mountains, providing wonderful views and abundant wildlife. Dave will take you out to the best spot depending on water conditions and where the fish are biting! This is a fully guided adventure. Your trip includes an experienced guide, all fishing gear (but feel free to bring your own), wade boots, and round-trip 45 minute fly-outs. Just make sure to bring your chest waders, snacks/lunch, and a fishing license. If you're looking to make a multi-day trip, cabin rentals are available upon request. Tight Lines! Read More

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Talkeetna

Pike In The Alaska Wilderness

100% (2)
1 - 4 People From $695

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Everything to Know About Booking an Alaska sockeye salmon fishing charter

What are the best sockeye salmon fishing charters in Alaska?

Why should I book a sockeye salmon fishing charter in Alaska with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 sockeye salmon trips in Alaska, and the most popular trips in the area are Soldotna Day Trip guided by Reubin, Ketchikan Multi-Day Fishing guided by Matt, and Alaska Float Fishing guided by Rene.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly sockeye salmon guides / fishing lessons in Alaska? Check out our beginner and family friendly sockeye salmon guides in Alaska.

What types of sockeye salmon fishing charters are common in Alaska?

River fishing is the most popular type of fishing for sockeye salmon in Alaska as well as nearshore fishing and inshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Alaska are fly fishing, trolling, and wading but sight casting and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Alaska sockeye salmon fishing charters cost?

Prices for sockeye salmon in Alaska can range anywhere from about $600 to $19,320, but the average price for a half day trip for sockeye salmon in Alaska is $675. The average price for a full day trip for sockeye salmon in Alaska is $7,492.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for sockeye salmon fishing in Alaska?

The most popular season for sockeye salmon fishing in Alaska is summer, and most anglers book their trips 16 days in advance.

Do I need a Alaska fishing license for sockeye salmon and what are the bag limits for sockeye salmon in Alaska?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Alaska, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Alaska. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Alaska.

What is fishing in Alaska all about?

Fishing in Alaska is renowned for its exceptional quality and diversity, attracting anglers from around the world. The state's vast and varied landscapes offer an array of fishing opportunities, from the crystal-clear rivers of the interior to the icy waters of the Arctic. Alaska's fishing environments are as diverse as its fish species, providing some of the best fishing experiences for both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts. With over three million lakes and 3,000 rivers, the state is a paradise for those looking to catch everything from salmon and trout to halibut and cod.

One of the highlights of fishing in Alaska is the annual salmon runs, which draw anglers eager to catch the different species of Pacific salmon. The Kenai River, for example, is famous for its large king salmon and sockeye runs, while the Naknek River is renowned for its impressive sockeye and rainbow trout. These rivers offer breathtaking scenery and high chances of landing a trophy-sized fish. The sheer abundance of salmon during the peak seasons ensures a thrilling fishing experience, with the opportunity to witness one of nature's most spectacular natural phenomena.

In addition to freshwater fishing, Alaska's coastal waters provide outstanding saltwater fishing opportunities. The waters around places like Seward, Homer, and Kodiak are known for their productive fisheries, where anglers can target halibut, lingcod, and a variety of rockfish. The state’s remote and pristine waters contribute to the high quality of the catch, and the abundant marine life makes for an exciting fishing adventure. Whether you're exploring the rugged wilderness of the interior or venturing into the rich marine environments of the coast, fishing in Alaska offers a memorable experience that showcases the state's remarkable natural beauty and diverse aquatic life.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in Alaska

Fishing seasons in Alaska are distinct and vary widely depending on the type of fishing and the region. In general, the fishing season is divided into several key periods that align with the annual migrations of different fish species. Spring is a time of transition, with the ice receding from many rivers and lakes, and freshwater fishing begins to pick up. This is when anglers can start targeting species like rainbow trout and Arctic grayling in the state's rivers and streams. As the weather warms up, the fishing conditions improve, setting the stage for the more intense fishing seasons to come.

Summer is the peak of fishing season in Alaska, especially for salmon. This is when the iconic salmon runs occur, with millions of fish migrating from the ocean into freshwater rivers to spawn. The Kenai Peninsula, the Bristol Bay region, and the Copper River are particularly famous for their large runs of king, sockeye, and coho salmon. Summer also brings excellent opportunities for saltwater fishing, with anglers targeting species like halibut, lingcod, and rockfish in the coastal waters. The long daylight hours and relatively mild weather make summer the ideal time for a fishing trip, with ample daylight to enjoy extended fishing excursions.

As autumn arrives, the fishing season in Alaska starts to wind down, but it remains productive, especially for those interested in catching late-run salmon and trout. The fall months bring cooler temperatures and the start of the brown and rainbow trout fishing season, which continues through the early part of winter. For those interested in ice fishing, the season typically begins in late fall as lakes freeze over. Winter fishing can be quite rewarding, with opportunities to catch species like burbot and Arctic char through the ice. Overall, Alaska's fishing seasons offer diverse and rewarding experiences, each with its own unique appeal and opportunities for anglers.

What types of fishing are popular in Alaska?

Fishing in Alaska offers a range of exciting opportunities due to its vast and varied landscapes, from pristine rivers to expansive ocean waters. In freshwater environments, one of the most popular techniques is fly fishing. This is particularly effective in the state's many pristine rivers and streams, where anglers target species like king salmon, rainbow trout, and grayling. The method involves casting lightweight, artificial flies to mimic insects and baitfish, which attracts the attention of these fish. The clear, cold waters of Alaskan rivers, such as the Kenai and the Russian River, provide an ideal setting for this technique, especially during the salmon runs.

For those interested in saltwater fishing, Alaska's coastal waters are renowned for their abundance of fish species. Techniques such as trolling and deep-sea fishing are commonly used to target species like halibut, salmon, and rockfish. Trolling involves dragging baited lines or lures behind a moving boat to attract fast-swimming species like king and silver salmon. Deep-sea fishing, on the other hand, is used to reach the ocean floor, where anglers can catch larger species such as halibut and various types of rockfish. This method requires heavier tackle and specialized gear to handle the strong currents and larger fish found in these waters.

Ice fishing is another unique technique practiced in Alaska during the winter months. Anglers drill holes through the ice covering lakes and rivers to fish in the cold, frozen conditions. Species like Arctic char, lake trout, and whitefish are commonly targeted using this method. Ice fishing in Alaska requires specialized equipment, including ice augers, insulated shelters, and winter gear to stay warm. Despite the cold, it offers a serene and rewarding fishing experience in a truly remote and beautiful setting. Each of these techniques highlights the diverse fishing opportunities available in Alaska, making it a premier destination for anglers seeking adventure and a chance to connect with nature.

What species are popular for fishing in Alaska?

Fishing in Alaska offers a wealth of opportunities to catch a variety of species, thanks to its diverse aquatic environments. In freshwater rivers and streams, salmon are among the most sought-after fish. Alaska is renowned for its robust runs of different salmon species, including king (Chinook), silver (coho), sockeye (red), and pink salmon. Each species has its peak fishing season, with king salmon being the largest and often the most prized catch, while silver salmon are known for their aggressive fighting and high-quality flesh. Fly fishing, spin casting, and drift fishing are popular methods for targeting these salmon during their spawning runs.

In addition to salmon, Alaska's freshwater lakes and rivers also offer excellent fishing for trout and grayling. Rainbow trout, particularly in the renowned Kenai River, are prized for their fighting ability and beautiful coloration. Arctic grayling, with their distinctive dorsal fins, are found in many northern streams and provide a unique challenge for anglers. Lake trout are another target species, often found in the deep, cold lakes of the state. These fish are typically caught using various techniques, including trolling, casting, and ice fishing during the winter months.

Saltwater fishing in Alaska's coastal areas presents opportunities to catch a range of species, including halibut, rockfish, and various types of cod. Halibut, the largest flatfish, can grow to impressive sizes and are highly prized for their firm, white flesh. Rockfish, found in the rocky coastal areas, come in various species and colors, and are popular among anglers for their abundance and strong fighting ability. Pacific cod, another common catch, can be found in deeper waters and are known for their mild flavor. Whether fishing from a boat, a charter, or from shore, these species offer a rich and varied fishing experience in Alaska's pristine waters.

What are the best places to fish in Alaska?

Alaska is renowned for its world-class fishing opportunities, with numerous spots across the state offering incredible catches and stunning scenery. One of the best places to fish is the Kenai River, famous for its impressive runs of king salmon and sockeye salmon. The river's clear waters and diverse habitats make it a top destination for anglers seeking a trophy catch. Additionally, the Kenai River is known for its excellent trout fishing, including rainbow and dolly varden trout, providing a varied fishing experience throughout the year.

Another prime fishing location in Alaska is the Bristol Bay area, which is home to some of the most prolific salmon runs in the world. The region’s numerous rivers and streams, including the Naknek and Kvichak Rivers, offer exceptional opportunities for catching sockeye, king, and coho salmon. The area’s pristine wilderness and abundant fish populations make it a popular spot for both guided fishing trips and self-guided adventures. The sheer volume of fish and the breathtaking landscapes make Bristol Bay a must-visit for any serious angler.

For those interested in saltwater fishing, the waters around Ketchikan are a top choice. Located in southeastern Alaska, Ketchikan provides access to some of the best saltwater fishing in the state. Anglers can target a variety of species, including halibut, king salmon, and lingcod, in the rich, nutrient-filled waters of the Inside Passage. The area's scenic beauty and abundant marine life make it a favorite among both sport fishermen and those looking to enjoy a scenic fishing trip. Overall, Alaska’s diverse fishing spots, from freshwater rivers to saltwater bays, offer unforgettable experiences for anglers of all types.

Does Alaska have good fishing?

Alaska is widely regarded as one of the best destinations for fishing enthusiasts, offering a range of opportunities that cater to different fishing preferences. The state’s vast and varied landscapes provide access to both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it a versatile location for anglers. From the iconic salmon runs in its rivers to the impressive saltwater catches in its coastal waters, Alaska delivers a fishing experience that is hard to match anywhere else. The sheer size and diversity of the state's fishing environments ensure that anglers of all skill levels can find a suitable spot to enjoy their favorite pastime.

One of the standout features of fishing in Alaska is the incredible abundance and variety of fish species. The state is home to some of the largest and most prolific salmon runs in the world, with species such as king, sockeye, and coho salmon providing ample opportunities for anglers. Additionally, Alaska's rivers and lakes are known for their healthy populations of trout, including rainbow and brook trout. For those interested in saltwater fishing, the state's coastal waters are rich with halibut, lingcod, and other game fish, offering a thrilling experience for deep-sea enthusiasts.

Another advantage of fishing in Alaska is the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds its fishing spots. Whether you're casting a line in a remote river or heading out to sea, the state's stunning landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop that enhances the fishing experience. Moreover, Alaska’s commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices helps maintain healthy fish populations and ensures that its waters remain productive for future generations. Overall, Alaska’s combination of abundant fish, diverse fishing opportunities, and stunning scenery makes it an exceptional destination for anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure.

The Best Places to Fish in Alaska

What's biting in Alaska?

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