To go fishing in Alaska...the dream of most serious fisherman. Powerful rainbow trout, feisty arctic char and dolly varden, elegant grayling and five species of Pacific salmon draw anglers to Alaska from all over the world. Many experienced anglers return to Alaska year after year. These anglers feel that nowhere else in North America can they experience such incredibly prolific fishing in such a spectacular remote setting.
And we agree! So much so that we at Angling Destinations have been traveling to Alaska for over 25 years. From the Arctic to the Panhandle to the prolific waters of Iliamna and Bristol Bay, we know and love Alaska. We also know that choosing a destination in Alaska can be a confusing and time-consuming experience. But, we feel confident that we can take the guess work out of this process and help you zero in on the best experience for you and your group.
We want to get you to the right place at the right time. Therefore, we will want to know what species you want to catch and when you want to go. Salmon operate according to their own rhythms, but generally, king (Chinook), red (sockeye) and dog (chum) salmon are in the rivers from late June through the end of July even into early August. Pink (humpy) salmon show up on even numbered years only. Silver (coho) salmon begin their migration in August and continue to enter fresh water well into September. The fish that follow the salmon and the natural chum line of roe and decomposing salmon flesh are dolly varden, grayling, arctic char and rainbow. These fish are caught throughout the season, June through September. Early and late are considered the best times for trophy rainbows; that's June before the salmon run and in September after the last of the silvers have entered freshwater. But large trout are caught all summer long so there is always the possibility of hooking into that trophy 'bow. If variety is your desire, August is your month because then the greatest numbers of salmon and freshwater species are available.
We have picked the lodges we represent carefully and whether you choose a luxurious full fly-out lodge or a wilderness tent camp, our operators will provide you with personalized service, excellent meals and great accommodations. Angling Destinations has divided Alaskan fishing opportunities into four categories to help you decide which experience is best for you. The four types of experiences available are:
1) Full Fly-Out Lodges
These lodges offer top notch accommodations and five-star dining. Every day anglers fly out in float planes to remote rivers and streams. Equipment, including boats and planes, guides and all amenities are top-notch. This approach offers unparalled flexibility. Our full fly-out lodges provide one of the finest angling experiences available in the world.
2) Fixed Lodges
Fixed lodges usually use jet boats to ferry anglers from the lodge to a fishing "hot spot" each day. These lodges are located on very reliable rivers. Fly-outs may be optional.
3) Fixed camps
While more rustic and less expensive than the fixed lodges, these camps offer the same quality fishing, excellent meals and comfortable lodging as the fixed and fly-out lodges at a more affordable price.
4) Float trips
Usually camps are set up each night as you move down the river. There are two anglers to each raft with a guide/boatman. Although float trips require more effort, they provide unlimited fishing time and a deeper involvement with the wilderness. This report is designed to give our clients a brief overview of what the best Alaskan operators offer. We have complete detailed brochures available on request. Our job is to help you sort through all the choices and then select the experience and the time which best meets your objectives... all at no added cost to you! We can also help you select the right clothing and equipment so you'll be both comfortable and successful on your Alaskan adventure. We maintain detailed equipment lists and, with our years of Alaskan angling experience, feel uniquely qualified to help you make the proper tackle, equipment and clothing choices as you prepare for your trip.
Full Fly Out Lodges
Iliaska Lodge
Newhalen Lodge is located approximately 185 miles southwest of Anchorage in one of Alaska's most beautiful areas. It is situated on Six-Mile Lake near Nondalton between Lake Iliamna and Lake Clark. This incredible region is one of the finest fishing areas in North America. It is famous for its trophy rainbow trout and the largest sockeye salmon run in the world.
The lodge offers several rooms within the main building, as well as seven separate guest cabins. All have private baths. Superb meals are served in the main lodge overlooking Six Mile Lake and Lake Clark National Park. When all of this is combined with a top-notch staff, great guides, experienced pilots and top-notch aircraft, you have a trophy trout fisherman's dream come true. Fly-fishing only. For 2006, $6,500 per week Monday-Monday.
Fox Bay Lodge
This lodge is located near King Salmon and can be reached easily by vehicle. Guests fish the famous waters of Bristol Bay including the Wood River Tikchiks, Iliamna, Pacific Coast, Painter Creek and many others. Anglers are housed in five individual cabins, each with a private bath, full carpeting, individual thermostats for heat, and plenty of hot and cold running water. Fox Bay Lodge believes in personal service. Two DeHavilland Beavers are in exceptional condition for daily fly-outs and a fleet of jet boats are well-maintained to fish the waters of the Naknek River. This is one of the best lodges to fish the Iliamna area and its trophy class 'bows. Fox Bay Lodge is one of the few lodges to offer partial week packages. This combined with easy access allows anglers with time constraints to still experience the best of Alaska. A typical 2006 price is $4,399 for 5 days fishing with two fly-out days or $2,399 for 3 days on the Naknek River.
Bristol Bay Lodge
For 26 years, Ron and Maggie McMillan have entertained the world's most avid and discriminating anglers. Bristol Bay Lodge combines the best of Alaskan sportsfishing with excellent accommodations and superb meals. Bristol Bay Lodge is known for its patient, personable and knowledgeable guide staff. The lodge is located in the Wood-Tikchik State Park overlooking Aleknagik Lake and the surrounding Killbuck Mountains. The lodge is adjacent to the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge and its myriad of fishing opportunities. Anglers fly out daily in float equipped DeHavilland Beavers and if they choose, may overnight in remote outpost camps, each staffed with a cook and permanent guide. B.B.L. is a favorite place for fly fisherman, although spin fishermen are welcome. An extremely comfortable lodge, great hospitality, and all the special touches make B.B.L. our best suggestion for couples. For 2006, $6,650 per week, package weeks begin Saturday and Monday.
Fishing Unlimited
Located in the Lake Clark area, fisherman fly-out daily aboard Cessna aircraft to some of the world's best sportsfishing, venturing from the famous Iliamna watershed to the western coast of Kodiak Island. Fishing Unlimited has two separate, yet identical, lodges making the total capacity 18 anglers per week. Guests stay in private cabins tucked away in the trees and connected by cedar boardwalks. The view from the lodge is magnificent. Owner Lorane Owsichek is a very experienced and attentive manager who always provides personalized service, delicious meals and a family atmosphere. Fishing Unlimited Lodge serves both spin and fly fishermen and is often booked early by returning customers. For 2006, prices include: $6,750 per week Friday-Friday, $4000.00 Friday-Monday and $3800.00 Monday-Friday.
Tikchik Narrows Lodge
Owner and manager Bud Hodson has created one of the most popular fishing lodges in Alaska. Tikchik Narrow Lodge is committed to providing great service for their clients. Their guides and pilots are dedicated and know their local fishery extremely well. The lodge is situated on beautiful Tikchik Lake. Tikchik Narrows Lodge has developed a fine reputation. Guests are housed in cozy cabins, the meals are superb, the view overlooking Tikchik Lake is magnificent and the fishing is excellent. Both fly fisherman and spincasters are welcome at Tikchik Narrows Lodge. Tikchik clients often rebook for the following year so openings are rare and anglers are urged to secure their weeks early. Limit 22 anglers. 2006 Rates: $6,600 per week Saturday to Saturday.
No-See-Um Lodge
Overlooking the Kvichak River, this beautiful lodge is centrally located near Katmai National Park in the Iliamna wild trout area. The main guest house has 4 bedrooms, each with two twin beds and a complete bathroom. Couples may choose the separate cabin and its queen size bed. Daily fly-outs take you to some of Alaska's best trout and salmon waters. Owners Jack and Sue Holman and their excellent staff provide superb service. If bad weathers descends or for some great evening fishing, guests have the option to explore the Kvichak River that flows in front of the lodge. Limit 10 anglers per week. Packages run Monday to Monday and include open bar and round trip air from King Salmon to the lodge. For 2006, $6650.00 pp Monday-Monday.
Royal Coachman Lodge
This small lodge sits on the banks of the beautiful Nuyakuk River providing great out-the-front-door fishing for after dinner fishing. Royal Coachman Lodge hosts only 8 guests per week. Daily fly-outs take you to some of Alaska's best streams including the Nushagak, Chichitna and Holitna Rivers. This lodge has carefully placed over 20 boats at these sites for the exclusive use of guests. While this is a spot for the dedicated angler, wonderful meals and accommodations insure no amenities are overlooked. For 2006, week packages are $6,200.
Fixed Lodges
Boardwalk Wilderness Lodge
This small, quality oriented lodge was the "Alaskan Lodge of the Year". Boardwalk Wilderness Lodge is family owned and operated. It is located north of Ketchikan on Prince of Wales Island. Wild native steelhead trout, dolly varden and salmon abound... and the vast majority have never seen a fly! This lodge is situated at the mouth of the Thorne River. You will also have the opportunity to fish for huge halibut while enjoying one of nature's last unspoiled treasures. Six night packages for 2006 run $5,395 and include a round trip float plane flight from Anchorage to the lodge.
Talaview Lodge
Located just 35 flying minutes from Anchorage, the Talachulitna River flows free and clear. The "Tal" has all five species of Pacific salmon and strong populations of rainbow and char. Talaview Lodge is an excellent choice for anglers who want fishing at their doorstep. The proximity of Talaview Lodge to Anchorage makes this destination our choice for anglers who have limited time. Owners Steve and Louise Johnson run a tight ship providing quality guides, excellent food, well-maintained equipment including jet boats and lovely accommodations, all at a very reasonable price. This is an excellent destination for family or business groups seeking a personalized or custom trip. For 2006, one week packages run $3,500 to $4,000; flight from Anchorage included.
Wilderness Place Lodge
Wilderness Place Lodge, which is accessed only by float plane, lies on the clear waters of Lake Creek in the upper Susitna Valley. Guests are lodged in comfortable streamside cabins. The food is delicious, the hospitality warm and gracious. The owners, Ed and Judy Sharpe, have built a reputation for excellent fishing at an economical price. A constant parade of salmon beginning with kings in late June and ending with silvers in September provide a constant source of food for the prolific resident rainbow population. If you are looking for a lodge close to Anchorage with great fishing, warm hospitality and a no-frills approach to angling, Wilderness Place Lodge is a discerning choice. Flight to Wilderness Place Lodge from Anchorage is included in the price. Fly fishing is the method of choice, but spin casters are welcome. Varied program for 2006 includes 6 nights -$3,530, 2 nights-$1,425 and float trips from $2,595.
Alaska Trophy Adventures
Alaska Trophy Adventures offers some of the most unique opportunities available to the fisherman looking for value and great fishing and waterfowl hunting. Their new lodge overlooks Cold Bay in the Aleutians and can handle 6-8 guests per week. Five or seven day all inclusive packages combine first-class accommodations and excellent food with spectacular fishing for silvers and char.
World class waterfowling is also available at the Izembek Wildlife Refuge Tent Camp. Or you may choose to fish for silver salmon at their Volcano Bay Camp or steelhead at their Aleutian River Steelhead Camp in the spring and fall.
Alaska Trophy Adventures also operates a deluxe tent camp from June to September on the Alagnak River inside spectacular Katmai National Park. Alaska Trophy Fishing Adventures offers adventuresome sportsmen some of the best remote hunting and fishing opportunities available anywhere. Please call us for all the details.
Fixed Camps
Goodnews River Lodge
The deluxe Goodnews River Lodge accommodates only 20 anglers per week and is perfect for people who prefer not to fly out everyday. Superb fishing opportunities are found in close proximity to the camp. The Goodnews River supports huge salmon runs and prolific trout and char populations that follow the salmon's natural chum line of roe. The fishing only seems to improve as the season progresses. Jet boats are used to transport anglers to various fishing spots, both on the Goodnews River itself and to its many tributaries. Guests stay in walled and floored, two man tents that are always warm and dry, each one equipped with propane heat and electricity. The excellent meals are taken in a large dining building. For 2006, the cost is $4,850 to $6250 per week Wednesday-Wednesday, float trips are $3750.00. Price includes charter from Anchorage
Togiak River Fishing Adventures
Togiak River Fishing Adventures is on the banks of one of the state's most prolific salmon fisheries. Your hosts, Brad and Karla Estelle strive to create an uncommon angling experience while always providing good service and warm hospitality. The limit per week is 16 fishermen. AD staff can attest that the king and silver runs on the Togiak are exceptional. The river has very limited access so it remains uncrowded and provides an exceptional fishing experience at a reasonable price. Guests are housed in heated Weatherport tents and take meals in a spacious and attractive dining tent. Guides, equipment, lodging and related services are first-rate. For 2006, prices include $3,850 per week Friday-Friday, $2400 Friday to Tuesday and $1875 Tuesday-Friday.
Trophy Pike Adventures
AD staff has been exploring the area surrounding Alaska's Anvik River for many years and it is in this fabulous area that we have established many northern pike fly rod world records. Trips with Trophy Pike Adventures include fishing for northern pike, as well as the legendary "Tarpon of the North", the sheefish. Anglers are housed on a custom built 63' houseboat that is equipped with all modern amenities. This is a unique fishing opportunity. The 2006 prices include $4,300 per week and $3,100 for 5 nights/4 days. Price includes airfare from Aniak.
Angler's Alibi
Located 25 miles from King Salmon, on the tidal waters of the Alagnak River, this camp is reached only by floatplane. Excellent salmon fishing is available either in front of camp or on the most productive waters on the Alagnak by means of 18' jet boats. Roomy comfortable weatherproof tents accommodate up to 10 guests and transform the wilderness into a comfortable home. The chef provides some of Alaska's finest bush cuisine. Excellent guides and plenty of hot water round out this professional operation. For 2006, prices include: $4200 7 days-$3000 4 days-$2500 3 days fishing.
Duncan Brothers' Kanektok Wilderness Camp
The Kanektok River, located in the famous Bristol Bay region of western Alaska, is dear to the hearts of Angling Destinations' staff. We have floated its prolific and remote waters many times. If you desire great fishing in a remote location, this Kanektok River Camp qualifies as one of the finest fishing destinations in Alaska. The camp hosts only 6 guests per week and is the only camp situated on the upper Kanektok. Plenty of hot water, comfortable accommodations in weatherproof tents and excellent, hearty meals make this the finest remote fishing camp in all of Alaska. The cost is $4,900 per week for 2009 and run Saturday to Saturday. Float trips on the Kanektok are $4500.
Float Trips
Brightwater Alaska
Brightwater Alaska, owned and operated by Chuck Ash, is one of the best float trip operations in Alaska. Brightwater Alaska has an international reputation among serious fishermen. Brightwater Alaska floats the Alagnak, Goodnews, Stuyahok and Talachulitna Rivers. The guides know each river intimately and can safely lead you through the many miles of scenic and rarely fished waters. The high percentage of repeat clients attest to the quality of this operation. Their reports consistently describe a talented guide staff that prepares delicious meals and quality equipment that virtually guarantees a wonderful wilderness adventure. Prices vary depending on the river floated.
Goodnews River Float Trips
The folks at Goodnews River Lodge also offer float trips on their spectacular namesake river. Accompanied by a guide, guests enjoy their days fishing and floating, with a new camp set each night. The rate for 2006 is $3,750 and includes round trip airfare from Anchorage, tents, camping gear, guides, rafts and all meals. Float trips run Wednesday to Wednesday and require a minimum of two and a maximum of six anglers. Sleeping bags and other personal camping gear are not included.
Bus Bergmann's Fishing Adventures
In 1980, B&B Fishing Adventures pioneered the first commercial wilderness float trips on the Kanektok River and was awarded the number one permit by the U.S. Forest Service. The Kanektok flows ninety miles through the Killbuck Mountains and the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge. The Kanektok is one of the world's great fishing destinations. Clients will enjoy the comfort of safari style camps, great meals, and experienced guides who work hard and know what it takes to make a river trip special. For 2005, $3,500 per week.
