alaska fishing trip gear list

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What to Pack For a Fishing Trip In Alaska (Ultimate Fishing Essentials List)

In this article I provide the ultimate fishing trip packing list for those of you who are planning on going on an Alaskan fishing adventure. 

The Ultimate Fishing Trip Packing List: What To Pack For Your Alaska Fishing Trip

I think you’ll agree that packing for any kind of trip can be daunting.  What should I take. What shouldn’t I take? Am I taking too much? Is my suitcase going to be overweight?  I’m pretty sure all of us ask ourselves these same questions every time we pack.

And when it comes to getting ready for our fishing trip to Alaska , it’s probably even worse!

Fact is, the weather in Alaska can be very unpredictable. What could be rain in the morning, could easily turn to sunshine in the afternoon.  Temperature swings during fishing season in some parts of Alaska can swing from freezing up to 70 degrees, especially during the early and late fishing seasons.

That’s why bringing the proper clothing and accessories for all different kinds of weather is extremely important.

What To Pack For Alaska Fishing Trip

Here is a list of 15 essential clothing and gear items you should plan on packing for your Alaska fishing trip.

1. Rain Gear

Rain gear is a requirement when fishing in Alaska. Consider investing in a quality two-piece rainsuit. Make sure the top of the rainsuit has a hood as well. A good set of rain gear does not have to be really expensive. But if you think you may use them again, then spending a little more now will save you in the long run. Plastic ponchos or vinyl rain suits are not suitable rain gear for fishing in Alaska.

Your lodge may provide waders for you. Please verify this before you leave. If not, you will need to bring your own.  A good set of waders are breathable or neoprene. A good place to look for waders if you’ve never owned a pair is fishingpicks.com or Cabela’s .

3. Shoes and/or Boots

Bringing a good pair of shoes as well as a good pair of fishing boots is also very important. You’ll need good boots to wear both tromping around the wilderness as well as to wear while in the boat. At the end of the day, you’ll want a comfortable pair of shoes to slip into while hanging around the lodge resting. Your footwear should be comfortable, lightweight and water repellent. Again, spending a little bit of money on the right pair of boots will save you money and foot-ache in the long run.

Bring along a couple pairs of comfortable and durable jeans or other durable pants. Throw in a pair of fleece pants as well to wear under your waders.  The river water in Alaska is cold! Don’t forget to throw in a pair of shorts for the hot tub.

Think  layers when fishing in Alaska. Polypro, capilene and wool all work really well at keeping you warm, even if you were to get wet. These materials make good first and second layers. Good shirt options include T-shirts, flannel shirts and lightweight long sleeve shirts. Think layers and what could easily be removed if the day begins to warm up.

6. Jackets, sweaters and vests

A fleece jacket or pile jacket, vest and/or wool sweater are great options for layered warmth.

7. Long Underwear

Leave the cotton long underwear at home. Other options that are made out of polypropylene, capilene or wool are much better choices.

If your feet are cold, you’ll be cold. So bring warm socks. Wool or synthetic socks are the best warm socks for fishing. Bring enough wool or synthetic socks for your entire lodge stay. Though cotton socks are fine for around the lodge, you’ll want to avoid wearing anything cotton while fishing.

9. Fishing Gloves

There are some really good fishing gloves available now days that are both functional and warm. Make sure the gloves you bring are warm and functional. Lightweight wool or fleece gloves are good choices.

Bring a warm wool knit cap. You’ll be amazed how much a warm hat will keep your entire body warm. Also bring a brimmed hat for those sunny and rainy days.

1 1. Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are going to help remove glare from off the water and help you actually see the salmon moving up the river.

12. Day Pack or Backpack

Bring along a backpack or day pack that you’ll be able to throw your extra gear and snacks in.

13. Bug Repellent

The bugs and insects in Alaska during the summer months can get pretty thick.  Bring a good quality insect repellent to help prevent the misery of getting “eaten alive”.

14. Water Bottle

You may be out on the water all day long, but you won’t be able to drink any of it. So bring a water bottle or hydration pack to pack in your own water.

15. Additional Items To Bring On Your Alaska Fishing Trip

Binoculars, camera with extra memory cards and batteries, sandals for relaxing around the lodge, alarm clock, sunscreen, personal fishing tackle, flashlight, and cell phone charger.

Final Thoughts

Packing for your Alaska fishing trip doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Think in layers.  Go prepared for the worst weather, and maybe you’ll get lucky.

Keep this packing guide with you and simply go down the list.  Make sure you check off each item. Chances are, once you get to your fishing lodge, you’ll be in a remote area, so making a quick trip to the store probably won’t be an option.

TIP:  Many people will take a cooler or two to bring back the fish they catch.  If worried about having an overweight suitcase, transfer some of the items in your suitcase over to your cooler. Might as well take advantage of the space inside the cooler since you’ll be checking it on the plane anyway.

Written by Don

When I'm not bass fishing or looking for steelhead in my home state of Oregon I can be found working on house projects dreaming of my next fishing adventure.

I started this website to share just some of the things I've learned along my fishing journey, and the many things I'm still learning. Enjoy!

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Epic  Blog

Alaska fishing trip gear and clothing advice.

In the following, we attempt to clarify and/or explain some of the items on our SAFARI camp gear list for your upcoming Alaska fishing adventure. We’ll discuss some of the trade-offs, and we’ll offer some specific recommendations for your consideration. But please don’t feel limited to our suggestions below, as there are many good options out there… we offer these ideas as a good starting point for your research. After all… preparing for your Alaska fishing trip can be half the fun!

We included the items on our gear list that receive the most questions from our guests. (If we missed something that generates any confusion, please let us know and we’ll add it to the list.)

POLAR FLEECE VEST

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Great for layering around camp or while on the water, some fishermen prefer a vest over a jacket since there are no sleeves to get wet when you are landing or handling fish. Windstopper vests can add an extra element of warmth.

• Suggestions: Patagonia Synchilla Vest (an all-time favorite)
• Other brands: Simms, The North Face, Mountain Hardware, Marmot

We have some Patagonia vests with the EPIC logo for sale .

POLAR FLEECE PULLOVER

Great if you’re cold natured, or fishing in Alaska mid to late June or late August through September. Wet sleeve cuffs are a drawback when handling fish in water. Windstopper pullovers can add an extra element of warmth.

• Suggestions: Simms Hoody , Patagonia R2 Jacket, Patagonia R3 Hi-Loft Jacket
• Other brands: The North Face, REI , Mountain Hardware, Marmot

QUICK DRY LONG SLEEVE SHIRT

This is the typical quick dry, non-cotton, long sleeve button down fishing shirt you see from Alaska to the Bahamas. Good for everyday use while fishing or traveling. Generally, you will layer a quick dry short sleeve t-shirt (or a light long sleeve baselayer) underneath your long sleeve fishing shirt. You can also use a thin pullover instead of a long sleeve fishing shirt (see alternate suggestions below).

• Suggestions: Simms and Patagonia offer numerous options
• Other Brands: Columbia, REI
• Alternate Suggestions: Simms Waderwick Fleece Top, Patagonia Capilene 3 Mid-weight Zip Neck

QUICK DRY T-SHIRT

Used as an undershirt to keep your outer shirt cleaner and smelling better, a quick dry t-shirt adds a light layering effect, plus they are easy to handwash if needed and dry quickly. Long sleeve versions work fine, too.

• Suggestions: Patagonia Capilene 1 Silkweight, Patagonia Capilene 2 Lightweight, Simms Tech Tee
• Other brands: Under Armor, REI

MID-WEIGHT POLAR FLEECE OR QUICK DRY PANTS

While fishing in Gore-tex waders, most summertime fishermen in Alaska wear either (1) a light to mid-weight polar fleece pant or (2) a quick dry pant with light to mid-weight long underwear underneath. Either configuration works fine at our fishing camps, but you should consider your own thermometer and the time of year you are fishing in Alaska.

If you want something you can wear casually around town or while traveling, then opt for quick dry pants and long underwear. If you’re not concerned with being fashionable, it’s hard to beat the warmth and comfort of polar fleece pants.

The quick dry pant with long underwear inherently offers more layering flexibility while fishing. If it’s “warm” outside, you can choose the pant or long underwear. If it’s cooler, than you can wear both together.

September fishing in Alaska can be cool to cold, so you may want to bring the warmer mid-weight polar fleece pants, or use mid-weight long underwear under your quick dry pants.

• Suggestions for Quick Dry Pants: The North Face Paramount Peak Convertible Pant, Simms Guide Pant
• Other options: REI Sahara Convertible Pant
• Suggestions for Mid-weight Polar Fleece Pants: Simms , and many others…

QUALITY GORE-TEX RAINGEAR

A must have for any Alaska fishing trip! On our gear list, the “raingear top” can mean 1 of 2 things – either a traditional Gore-tex rain jacket  or a Gore-tex wading jacket.

Most fishermen prefer a gore-tex “wading jacket” instead of a traditional rain jacket. A wading jacket is shorter in torso length to help keep the lower portion out of the water – especially the pockets, which may fill up with water during deep water crossings. Plus, a wading jacket generally has oversized pockets for fly boxes, plus hand warmer pockets.

Whether you decide on a traditional jacket or a wading jacket, do not skimp –  buy good raingear!  This is one of your most important pieces of gear on any Alaskan fishing trip.

Waterproof rain paints are important for hanging around camp in rainy weather before and after your day of fishing. Do not forget them, but they are not as critical as the jacket.

• Suggestions for Wading Jackets: Simms Guide Jacket, Simms G3 Guide Jacket , Patagonia SST Jacket , Redington Wayward Jacket
• Other brands of traditional non-wading jackets: Patagonia, Simms, Marmot

LIGHT-WEIGHT RAINGEAR TOP

It is a good idea to also bring a light-weight rain jacket as a backup in case your primary rain jacket gets soaked, plus it can be used as a wind breaker for around camp. This item is not as critical as your primary rain (or wading) jacket, so you don’t have to invest quite as much money. Look for jackets that are light, packable and compressible.

• Suggestions: Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket
• Other brands: Marmot, REI, Columbia

SLIP-ON WATER PROOF CAMP SHOES

You’ll need some kind of water proof shoe for hanging around camp. Lace up hikers will work, but there is an extra level of convenience with slip-on shoes.  You are more likely to slip them off before entering your sleeping shelter, which will help keep it cleaner.

It will most likely rain sometime during your week, and if it rains heavy, the trails around camp can become rather sloppy. This is why water proof or water resistant shoes are important. “Crocs” are convenient, light and affordable, but they just don’t work well when the trails are sloppy.

If you don’t plan on any day hiking during your week of fishing, leave your hiking boots at home. Slip-on camp shoes are perfect for camp life.

• Suggestions: Merrel – Jungle Mocs , Muckboot – Muckster , L.L. Bean – Rubber Mocs, Gumshoe, or Pull-on Boot, RedHead – Twin-Gore Boot

QUICK DRY CAMP TOWEL

In our wet and coastal Alaska Peninsula environment, cotton towels will never completely dry during a rainy or foggy week. A synthetic “camp” towel, which is reminiscent of a car shammy, works best.

You can usually find these at your local outdoor and camping store, but you may have to order them online. Don’t worry too much about the brand.

• Suggestions: Sea to Summit , MSR, REI

BUZZ OFF BANDANAS

“Buzz Off” is a general term used for clothing that has been chemically treated with permethrin to help deter biting insects. Around SAFARI camp in July and August, a buzz off bandana is helpful in keeping biting or swarming insects away from your face. At OUTPOST camp this type of bandana is helpful all weeks.

You can take it to another level and buy Buzz Off shirts and pants, which is very useful at our OUTPOST camp (shirts only at SAFARI camp in July and August). Or, you can buy a bottle of permethrin and treat your bandanas (or clothes) yourself for a lot less money.

• Suggestions: ExOfficio Buzz Off Bandana
• Suggestion for do-it-yourself: Sawyer Spray-on Permethrin

GORE-TEX WAIST OR CHEST WADERS

Hippers, waders that come up only to your crotch, are too short for our Alaska fishing trips. Water in your waders is inevitable. Waist-highs are the minimum practical height of waders that are required. They are cooler than chest waders when hiking, easier to take on/off, and they make it easier to relieve yourself. But chest waders offer the most warmth and protection from the elements, and you can even buy them with zippers (that actually work) for the best of all worlds.

Whatever option you choose, buy stockingfoot waders not bootfoot waders. Stockingfoot waders have a sewn in neoprene bootie and require a separate wading boot. Assuming you buy the correct wading boot, stockingfoot waders are infinitely more comfortable than bootfoot waders, which tend to be heavy and clunky.

Simms offers high-quality waders with the most options in a wide range of price points – from $180 to $850. Patagonia offers a very solid product, too, in fewer options. Redington offers several good options.

• Suggestions: Simms Freestone, Simms Classic, Simms G3, Simms G4 Zipper

WADING BOOTS

Starting in 2012, felt soled wading boots are banned in Alaska . Now you need a wading boot, while fishing in Alaska, with a “sticky” rubber sole. Several companies offer rubber sticky rubber soles. We are partial to the  Simms StreamTread sole , but there are several other options out there.

If you buy a studded wading boot, make sure they are removable so they don’t thrash up our vinyl tent floors at camp.

FYI, we reviewed the Simms RiverTek BOA wading boot in detail, but a traditional lace up wading boot has worked perfectly well for years.

• Suggestions: Simms Headwaters Boot, Simms Freestone, Simms Flyweight, Simms G3

We strongly suggest bringing a day pack on your Alaska fishing trip. They are far more versatile than just a hip or chest pack for storing water bottles and extra layers when you don’t need them. A waterproof or nearly waterproof pack is ideal (but more expensive). If you opt for a non-waterproof pack, bring Ziplocs for important items.

A few companies have hybrid packs that have been optimized for fishermen with larger storage compartments on the back (think extra layers and water bottles) and small storage areas on the front (think fly boxes and fishing gadgets).

• Suggestions: Simms Dry Creek, Simms Dry Creek Z , Patagonia Stormsurge, Patagonia Stormfront , Fishpond Thunderhead, Fishpond Wind Rive r, and many more….

TRAVEL DUFFEL BAGS

A soft-sided, weather-resistant duffel with built in backpack straps are the best bet for your remote Alaska fishing trip. While the larger roller bags are convenient for urban airports, they are definitely less than ideal for the small charter aircraft to/from camp – they just don’t cram into the nooks and crannies of Alaska bush aircraft. Generally, 2 medium bags (in the 70 to 75 liter range each) is better than 1 giant bag.

• Suggestions: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel (our favorite remote Alaska bag), Simms Dry Creek Duffel , Fishpond Thunderhead Duffel

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Guided Sportfishing & Accommodations on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula

Alaska packing list.

Alaska Fishing » Alaska Packing List

Deciding how to pack for an Alaska fishing trip can be a challenge. The diversity of weather you may encounter requires you to come prepared for anything.

Below is a fairly comprehensive Alaska packing list of clothing items to ensure you’ll be well prepared for whatever Alaska has in store for you.

When fishing with us, we provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, flies, waders, and hip boots.

When preparing your Alaska packing list remember that

Dressing in layers is an alaskan standard., you can always take it off, but you can’t put it on if you don’t have it..

1. Long underwear, top and bottom! Cotton works fine, but polypropylene is the best. Wear this everyday, no matter what; you won’t regret it.

Wear something over your long underwear that will be warm, comfortable, and durable. Make sure pants are loose-fitting to accommodate the extra layer underneath. Fleece is tough to beat. It is very warm, comfortable, and it wicks away moisture. If you don’t have fleece pants, jeans work fine. Alaska fishing can be a bit messy, so don’t wear your best slacks!

For your upper half, pack plenty of warm shirts, hooded sweatshirts, lined flannels, fleece pull-overs, etc…A warm, long-sleeve shirt and a warm, hooded sweatshirt are a definite priority for your Alaska packing list.

3. A warm jacket is a must for your Alaska packing list. A lined parka is recommended, like a hunting or ski jacket, preferably water-resistant. This may not be necessary on many days, but when you do need it, you’ll be very happy to have it.

4. RAIN GEAR! Unlike other portions of the country where summer and sun go hand-in-hand, Alaska is different. In fact, there’s more likely to be clouds and rain than sunshine. They say if you don’t like the current weather in Alaska, wait ten minutes. This means rain gear is always a must for any Alaska packing list and a good, well-fitting pair of tops and bottoms will keep you dry and warm for the duration of your Alaska fishing trip . Some prefer to wear their rain gear, raining or not, just to break the wind and protect their clothing.

5. Heads, Eyes, Hands, and Feet! Keeping your head warm is the key to a comfortable day, so make sure you have a hood on your sweatshirt and/or jacket, as well as your rain gear. A full brimmed cap is also nice for shading your eyes from the sun.

A quality pair of polarized sunglasses will be worth its weight in gold here in Alaska. The glare from the water, even on overcast days, is constant and damaging to your eyes. With glasses, your eyes will relax, stay warm and focus on the sights! A warm pair of gloves is equally important. I recommend the fleece pairs with cut-off fingers for fishing. Any gloves you have should work fine.

Finally, warm footwear is crucial! Insulated rubber knee boots are nice as they allow you to step into the water without getting your feet wet. You will be in a dry boat, but you might want to get out on a shore break and waterproof boots are nice. A warm pair of hiking boots with wool socks is more than adequate to keep your feet warm. Good luck with your Alaska packing list and we’ll see you on the water, dry and warm!

6. Other useful items to pack are mosquito repellent (and/or bug net) and sunscreen.

ALASKA FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

All residents aged 18 or older, and non-residents aged 16 or older must possess a sport-fishing license to participate in sport and personal use fisheries in Alaska. In addition a King Salmon stamp is required to fish for King Salmon. Licenses can be purchased online from the Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADFG), and are also available at local tackle shops.

OTHER USEFUL ADF&G LINKS

LIMITS & REGULATIONS • E-LIBRARY • MAPS • EO & NEWS • ABOUT ADFG • FISHING INFORMATION

Packing Recommendations for an Alaskan Fishing Trip

There are a number of important priorities to consider when preparing for an Alaskan fishing adventure, and packing properly is at or near the top of any such list. Alaska is one of the most unique climates of any of the 50 US states, with weather that can change dramatically even within a single day -- when you add in the clothing and/or equipment you'll need for your actual fishing excursions themselves, there are quite a few items to think about.

At Pybus Point Lodge, we're here to help. Not only do our all-inclusive Alaskan fishing packages include all the fishing equipment you'll need on-site -- plus access to watercraft -- we're also here to offer tips and expertise on how to pack generally for your trip. Here's a simple primer, including both fishing-specific gear and other items you'll need for separate parts of the trip.

Basic Packing Tips

While this section may seem elementary for experienced fishers or wildlife excursioners, we'll state again that packing for an Alaskan fishing trip can be complex for some, including first-timers -- and we don't want you to forget about certain very simple packing themes, including:

• Ensure you pack enough: Before you dig into any of the complex parts of packing for a fishing trip, handle the simple details. How many days and nights will you be gone? How many times do you expect to go fishing during the trip? Know your basic numbers so you have an idea of how to pack simple items like socks, underwear and more.
• Check the weather in advance: If you're planning on an Alaskan fishing trip in the middle of summer, more power to you -- but even if you're not that ambitious, the weather isn't always predictable. Know your temperature and precipitation ranges ahead of time, so you do not come unprepared. Extra rain gear and blankets are especially important.
• Enlist outside help: If you're not a fishing expert, or if you've never been to Alaska before, don't try to pack for the trip alone. Like many items on this list, there are too many unknowns involved in packing properly for a new experience that one can easily make mistakes over -- enlist some help from people who have been there and done that (in this case, us).

With these simple tips in mind, let's go over a couple basic checklists for your fishing trip packing.

Fishing-Specific Items to Pack

While our team will provide all the specific fishing equipment you need, from rods and bait to watercraft and more, there are several items you should bring yourself in preparation for your fishing trip itself:

• Warm wool socks
• Synthetic long underwear tops and bottoms
• Long-sleeve and short-sleeve synthetic shirts
• Layered clothing options
• Cold-weather hat (for warmth)
• A billed hat (for particularly sunny days)
• Thick work gloves or mittens for handling caught fish and bait rigging
• Polarized sunglasses

In addition, if you've been specifically advised to bring other items that are not on this list, be sure to heed these recommendations. Many of the required items for our fishing excursions can be purchased at our lodge if you happen to forget anything.

Hiking/Tour Attire

Now, while the highlights of your trip will likely include your fishing excursions, these won't occupy your entire trip. Our packages also include activities like wildlife tours and various hikes, and you should have some basic items on-hand for these needs as well:

• Comfortable synthetic hiking socks
• Durable, waterproof hiking boots
• Light, layered clothing options for outdoor activities in warmer months
• Fleece jacket
• Warm hat(s) that can fit under a cap or ball cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection and polarization, especially for wildlife viewing purposes

Casual Attire

Finally, you need to ensure you're packed properly for the periods of your trip that don't involve any kind of outdoor activity. Much of your casual attire packing will come down to your specific expectations for the weather -- be sure to pack for both days and nights, as the temperatures may vary pretty significantly here. Once again, pay close attention to basic trip details like number of days, activities planned and more.

Miscellaneous Items

In addition to actual clothes, there are a few miscellaneous items you might consider packing that will make the trip simpler. Some of these items may also be purchased or rented on-site at our lodge, but many find it's simpler to just pack their own if they have room. These accessories include:

• Insect repellant
• Sunscreen (high-SPF, both UVA- and UVB-resistant)
• A small or medium-sized dry bag to hold items while fishing
• A small backpack or other bag for toting items
• Ziploc bags if needed
• Waterproof, durable cell phone case
• Protective sunglasses case

For more on what and how to pack for your upcoming Alaskan fishing trip, or to learn about any of our fishing vacations, wildlife tours, lodging amenities or other services, speak to the staff at Pybus Point Lodge today.

DOWNLOAD OUR PDF PACKING LIST

Download, share, or print out our PDF Packaging list to make sure you bring all the gear you need for your Alaska vacation!

Pybus Point Lodge is located on an extremely remote island far away from the distractions of the city. This makes for incredible sightseeing, fishing, and an all around great opportunity to connect with friends, family, and m

Alaska is one of the top dream destinations for anglers around the world, and it’s no surprise why! Our waters are home to a wide variety of fish species that are good to eat and a blast to catch.

Discover why people like you can’t stop talking about Pybus Point Lodge. More than 30 years ago, the lodge opened as a simple fishing camp, drawing a devoted following in spite of basic accommodations. With new owners and experienced captains and crew, our corner of Alaska has become an unbeatable fishing and eco-tourism resort. ‍

Andrea Tate

Incredible Experience!

Pybus Point Lodge has some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever seen. I mean absolutely breathtaking! In addition to the amazing fishing, I hiked to a beautiful secluded lake, soaked in some hot pots, saw several waterfalls, went whale watching, saw bears and all kinds of wildlife and marine life. As a photographer, photographing a wedding under a waterfall will remain a highlight of my life.

Shirley Johnson

Pybus Point Lodge - WOW!

We had the best time! This was our first visit to Pybus, but it definitely will not be our last. The stunning scenery, amazing fishing experience, and the joy of meeting new friends – all outstanding! We did not want to leave!!! If you are thinking about this trip – don’t think any more, just book it. You will not regret it!!!

Sharon Hedding

Trip of a Lifetime!

We had such an amazing time the staff was so wonderful and the lodge was fantastic! capt Joe was so helpful and always doing what ever he could do to make each day special. a special thank you to both Scott and Jody for taking the time to make us feel like family. can't wait to go back next year

Jason Nielsen

Wonderful and Magical Place

We had an amazing business retreat to Pybus Point Lodge.  Everything was top notch... the fishing, the staff, the boat captains, the food, the accommodations, and especially the scenery. I really liked that Pybus took care of everything from start to finish. Chef John is an amazing cook. We had delicious hot meals the entire trip.  The cabins were amazing and very comfortable.  The fishing was awesome and that’s coming from a guy that doesn’t fish that much.

Brandon Foote

We brought home 100lbs of fish!

My wife and I spent a week at Pybus Point this Summer. We had a beautiful, private room overlooking the bay and our own new, ensuite, private bathroom. What an amazing place for couples to get away together. We set our own breakfast time, met our boat captain after, fished the day along, and returned to clean up and enjoy a nice dinner at the restaurant. Next time Alaska is on the trip list, Sherrie and I will go together, and it will be to Pybus Point!

Kent Danjanovich

Fun in Alaska

This was my first trip to Pybus Point. I stayed in one of their new cabins. The accommodations were incredible, the view onto the bay in the mornings was stunning. I loved the staff and the food was really very good. All of this and they have new boats to take you out onto fairly calm waters to fish. The fishing guides were great. Overall a great experience. Definitely going back.

GET IN TOUCH

Unlimited skiff acesss.

Enjoy unlimited access to our fleet of motorized skiff boats. We’re just minutes away from beautiful freshwater stream fishing, and some of our guests’ biggest halibut catches have been reeled in on a skiff.

Guided saltwater fishing 2

Quality tackle & gear, fish cleaning & vacuum sealing, custom built boats, guided saltwater fishing 10, new accommodations.

Three new 33’ walk-around boats make their debut for our 2019 season. Featured in the Seattle Boat Show and designed stem to stern specifically for ocean conditions in Alaska's Inside Passage, we couldn’t ask for better boats.

Gourmet Menu

Guests love our build-your-own lunches, featuring fresh ingredients and thin-sliced meat we smoke right outside. Meals at the lodge are always made to order – no buffets or cafeteria-style meals at Pybus Point Lodge! Our chef has created menu options that are beautiful and delicious without feeling pretentious or unfamiliar.

Full Time Guide

If you’re going to come all the way to Alaska, you may as well fish with an experienced guide on hand to keep you on the fish and take care of all the little details. You can enjoy the scenery, your company, and the world-class fishing. You’ll get your guide’s attention as much as eight hours each day – already included in the cost of your trip.

Guided saltwater fis Chartered Float Plane hing 2

Upgrade your trip to see the Alaskan wilderness from the air. Our experienced pilot will land on a secluded lake and guide you to some of the best salmon and native trout fishing in the state.

Daily Maid Service

While you go out and play, our talented staff will make sure your room stays tidy and clean! We receive even more compliments about our friendly staff than we do about Alaska's stunning beauty!

Cell Tower & WiFi

Pybus Point Lodge is located on the remote and secluded far south edge of Admiralty Island National Monument. Coverage is always tricky in deep valleys and remote natural areas. We found that AT&T has the most reliable cellular service at the lodge while T-mobile, Sprint, and Verizon can be picked up while out on the ocean. We do have a lodge phone you can use if necessary. If you can't get a signal, we do provide free high-speed WIFI to the lodge and cabins. A popular option is to utilize your phones WIFI calling mode to communicate and take calls while at the cabin, although we prefer to unplug and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

Humpback whale watching

The calm, cool waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage are the perfect habitat for humpback whales. Our guests tell us close encounters with these peaceful giants have changed the way they see the world – and we know just what they mean.

Fortress of the Bears

You’ll stay with us on Admiralty Island, called Xootsnoowú by native Tlingit people, which means “Fortress of the Bears.” There are more bears on our island than in all 49 other states combined – and more than 2.5x the number of people here!

Seals & Sea Lions

A short ride in one of our skiffs will take you to the mouth of a river where, if your timing is right, you can watch salmon make their final run to spawn. When it isn’t overrun by bears dining on the feast, you can walk upstream just a few minutes to a beautiful waterfall in the thick forest.

Orca (killer whale) Spotting

From tiny phosphorescent algae lighting up our private docks to enormous humpback whales hunting in our deep, calm waters, you won’t find a more beautiful place to experience Alaska. Pybus Bay is a photographer’s paradise – bald eagles and brown bears, orca, otters and sea lions, and more. We can’t wait to help you experience Alaska.

Secluded Alaskan Waterfalls

Sawyer glacier day trip.

Take quick detours or day-long excursions to explore some of our planet's most beautiful, remote waterfalls and glaciers.

Meet us in Juneau and let our experienced staff handle every detail of your all-inclusive Alaskan vacation, starting with a beautiful seaplane flight to our secluded lodge at Pybus Bay.

Alaska Trip Packing, Fishing Gear and Travel Recommendations

Fishing Lodge Home › Alaska Fishing › Resources, Guides › Trip Packing

We are able to accommodate CPap machines 24/7 at the lodge if we know in advance. We wish you a pleasant trip to Alaska! We are sure that your stay with us at Wilderness Place Lodge will be a memorable one. We recommend that you plan to overnight in Anchorage the night before traveling to the lodge.

Ready to Plan your Alaska Fishing Trip? Start Building!

Essential Fishing Gear for Alaska

When it comes to fishing gear for Alaska the list can become unmanageable. That’s why Fish Alaska’s Publisher Marcus Weiner has put together our recommended list of essentials.

Fishing Gear for Alaska: Tools, Tackle and Apparel for Anglers

We printed Fish Alaska’s 1st Annual Gear Guide in October 2002. © Fish Alaska Publications, LLC

There are certain items in the angling arsenal that become indispensable. They find themselves in gear bags trip after trip, despite a mountain of options from a large pool of manufacturers for nearly every conceivable method and fish size.

Many have been around a long while and just plain work. Others are quite new, and simply outperform the rest. Some items are ubiquitous and others rarer.

A certain reel that battles hundreds of kings and continues to hold up. A rod that throws line farther and smoother than any before or since. A lure in size and color that the fish can’t refuse. These items are essential fishing gear for Alaska.

The Fish Alaska Essentials award is a concept to recognize fishing gear for Alaska that has been tested, approved, and remain a good choice anytime.

Fish Alaska’s Essential Fishing Gear for Alaska

Lamiglas G1000 Kenai Rods –Long before the magazine came into existence, the most valuable item in my gear collection was a Lamiglas baitcaster. Posey and the boys know how to build a good rod and they certainly stand behind it. We’ve enjoyed much of the Lamiglas line from fly to spin, salt to baitcasting.

Mepps Aglia – The #3 Green Platinum Mepps Aglia is among the most productive lures we’ve ever used. From tight-lipped coho to trophy trout and char, this lure catches fish that others don’t.

Blue Fox Vibrax – Most tackle boxes around Alaska contain this lure. From the smaller sizes for all of the state’s resident gamefish to the larger sizes that have caught every salmon species swimming, the unique combination of blade and bell drive fish insane. This lure now comes in an astonishing number of finishes and styles.

Blue Fox Pixie – This spoon is among the all-time best salmon attractors. I can remember the looks I was getting up and down the beach at Allison Point after the reel stopped screaming with another big silver. The ½-ounce nickel-plated green insert was sick that day. I’ve had other days at the mouth of the Deshka when kings would eat nothing else but the M-ounce gold-plated fluorescent orange insert. You’d be in the minority if you don’t have some Pixies on hand during salmon season.

G-Loomis Native Run GLX – This remains my favorite rod for throwing big flies long distances. Since first casting it, and immediately watching the fly travel 20 feet farther, I’ve been amazed at how easily it throws thread. After testing many competitive models, this rod is still my first choice.

Leatherman Multitool – From its advent to today’s wide range of choices, the Leatherman multi-tool is truly an amazing device, and essential for being prepared for the unexpected whenenjoying the outdoors. On a day-float many years ago, I broke an oar within the first five minutes and did not have a spare. Using the multi-tool to cut down two small alders, we lashed them to either side of the oar and floated the eight-mile stretch of river without incident. From sharpening hooks to tightening screws and from cleaning fish to opening cans, make sure you have one on hand for your next Alaska adventure.

Avet Saltwater Reel – After wrestling big fish like triple-digit halibut and quarter-ton salmon shark with Avet reels, it’s our choice when going into battle on the saltwater.

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur – This classic reel has been catching salmon in Alaska for generations and holds up as one of the more popular baitcasting reels.

Gamakatsu Siwash Hook – Sticky sharp and sturdy, Gamakatsu is among our top choices for hooks.

Ande Monofilament – Time and again, Ande Monofilament has proven to be strong and abrasion-resistant, and our go-to choice for monofilament.

Simms Guide Wader, Jacket and Boots – The Simms Guide line of waders, jackets and boots have been field-tested and proven tough despite the thousands of hours spent wading, hiking, standing in the rain and getting in and out of boats. In fact, our editor is going on year 11 with the same Guide Jacket and Boots – the upcoming felt ban will finally end the boots’ years of service, but the jacket will likely hold out for several more.

Luhr Jensen Kwikfish – This is the quintessential plug for river-fishing Alaska, and accounts for a lot of salmon, especially Chinook, caught each year. The range of color patterns and models have increased over the years, and so has the range of water conditions where you can effectively use a Kwikfish.

Maxima Fluorocarbon – Over many years we’ve had the chance to use many different types of leader material and we still rank Maxima Flourocarbon near the top of the list. Fish can’t see it and it’s durable and strong.

Grunden’s Raingear – From heavy-duty commercial gear to lighter coats and pants for the weekend warrior, Grunden’s raingear is a good choice for anyone spending time on the saltwater or trying to stay dry when it just won’t stop raining. And it’s easy to clean off fish slime, blood and guts.

Eagle Claw Classic Hook – Since childhood, I’ve been catching piles of fish on Eagle Claw hooks. The classic series offers many options for different style hooks depending on your presentation. Check out the Lazer Sharp hooks as well.

Seeker Alaska Series Halibut Rod – Tough and responsive, Seeker builds a product that will hold up to big fish time and again. The Alaska series is a must-have for serious saltwater anglers.

Kalin Leadhead Jig with Grub Tail – It seems that every bottomfish in Alaska will attack a leadhead jig with a grub tail. Different models dot the angling landscape, but the Kalin leadhead jig is among the most popular and effective. We’ve caught many oversized lingcod on this deadly offering.

Point Wilson Dart – When it comes to imitating the many different types of baitfish that salmon and bottomfish love to ingest, the Point Wilson Dart is a proven lure. Between the fluttering action, slim profile and enticing finishes, the Point Wilson Dart is able to effectively imitate baitfish like candlefish and herring.

Hot Spot Apex – The Apex trolling lure will catch just about everything swimming in both the fresh- and salt waters of Alaska. Sporting a wide range of colors and several sizes, we have pounded huge trout and frenzied coho on this awesome lure.

Ross Canyon Big Game Reel – Tried and true, this is one of those reels that Fish Alaska magazine editors have used for many years, landing many big fish, andwe continue to reach for it despite the range of options available. The reel boasts one of the best sealed drags out there, which helps us continue to dominate big fish in dirt- and silt-laden streams.

Original Bug Shirt – When it comes to fishing the freshwaters of Alaska, and this holds especially true on remote rivers, biting insects are a force to be reckoned with. Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and white socks will find you and at times drive you to the point of insanity. Our best solution yet is the Original Bug Shirt. It is lightweight, compact and will keep the bugs out of your eyes, nose, mouth and ears.

Western Filament Tuf Line – This is our go-to choice for braided line. There are multiple models available and a wide range of tests and spool sizes in each model line.

Old Favorites vs. New and Innovating: Fishing Gear for Alaska

We now print our gear guide every March (2018 shown) and give our yearly favorites an Editors’ Choice Award. © Fish Alaska Publications, LLC

These are our tried-and-true recommended fishing gear for Alaska. While we review this list from time to time and make updates, find our most up to date suggestions in our  Editors’ Choice Awards  for a slew of products we test annually, as well as the latest items in the Gear Bag .

Marcus Weiner is publisher of Fish Alaska and Hunt Alaska magazines.

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Gear List for Alaska Float Fishing Trips

Our gear list for our guided Alaska float fishing trips is ever-changing, so stay in contact!

This list is made with our 6-night, 7-day fly fishing trips in mind.

The weather in Western Alaska can be best defined as dynamic, Summers can be very sunny and warm and is Alaska’s least rainy period – but one must be prepared for inclement weather that could last the entire trip. 

Average summer temps range from 50-75 degrees.  It is best to have top-quality raingear and options for when said gear gets soaked.

Float Trip Personal Equipment List

Below is a checklist for personal equipment you will need on your float trip to Alaska. Recommendations are in parenthesis!

Waders (At least 3 layers of protection like Gore-Tex) Boots (Felt is banned in Alaska – do not come out with old falling apart boots)   NO CLEATS Sleeping Bag (15 degrees and up –  NO DOWN BAGS ) Wool Socks (6 pairs) Rain Gear (GORE-TEX is recommended – newer and high quality is a must) Pants (2 pairs) Stocking Cap (windproof is a good option) Sun Protection Hoody (very good for bug protection – 2 are recommended) BUFF style neckerchief (great for wind and bugs) Thick Synthetic Layer (sweater, hoody, etc.) Gloves (warmth for camp) Work Gloves (camping) Bandana (great for wiping off glasses in the rain and personal hygiene) Shorts (1 pair) Thermal Underwear (polypropylene or any synthetic) Sunglasses (Polarized) Hat (Ballcap) Toiletries (specific to you) Spirits (Nalgene bound) We provide 4 cases of beer and 4 boxes of wine

Binoculars Portable Charger for phones, cameras, etc. Bug Repellent (separate Ziploc bag) Personal Fishing Gear (10,12,15 lb Maxima, Hills Fly Box, split shot, needle nose pliers) Sunscreen (separate Ziploc bag) Camp Knife or multitool Book and or logbook, pen Headlamp if in August Rod Case for rods

Below is a list of things that people typically bring that will be of no use: Any fly rod below a 5 wt. or under 9ft. Wading boots with studs, as mentioned above we will not allow them in the boats. Period. Any tippet that has an X next to it. Lots of t-shirts. They will live in your bag soaking up moisture and making everything heavy. Jeans, once again the whole living-in-the-bag thing. Hemostats. You need pliers – little trout fishing hemostats will not debarb heavy hooks or pull them out of 5+ pound fish. We have pliers handy on every boat. No need to bring cups or bowls, we provide personal-use coffee cups, etc. Firearms are not allowed. The guides are all armed and the camp is safer that way. Any computer gear. Any office work. FIREARMS ARE NOT ALLOWED; GUIDES CARRY 12 GA SHOTGUNS

We will provide you with a dry bag prior to your expedition.  This is yours to keep after the trip as well! ALL PERSONAL GEAR NEEDS TO FIT IN THIS BAG.  It is more than adequate to hold what folks need, we will provide another bag that is accessible in the boat for other gear.  PRE-PACK YOUR SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, LAYERS, ETC. IN FREEZER-WEIGHT ZIPLOC BAGS. We also provide a cot and Thermarest for your sleeping comfort.

Dressing for the Weather in Western Alaska

Southwest Alaska is a very dynamic place for weather and elements. It can change daily and typically involves a well-thought-out comfort management plan.  This begins with no cotton.  

Dress in layers , this way you can make adjustments for changing temperatures throughout the day necessary to keep you comfortable.  A typical day has at least a 20-degree swing.

No cotton in the dry bags no cotton on the body. It is such a damp environment that it will soak whatever cotton garments guests bring. I highly suggest synthetic materials for all clothing, all the way to underwear.

Yes thermal underwear, but I’m even talking about boxers and briefs, if they are synthetic they will not stay damp. Synthetic t-shirts, sun hoodies, long sleeves, pants, all of it. Capilene, polypropylene, fleece, etc. should all be a part of the gear list.

Synthetic clothing recommendations

I usually wear a light pair of polypropylene thermals just as a base layer and then fleece layers for warmth and then some sort of hard shell for wind. Anything that can block the wind from penetrating is recommended, along with insulated hats balaclavas, and gloves/mittens.

The average temperatures fluctuate quite a bit, usually somewhere between 50-65 degrees, and mix that low temp with rain and wind – you can get the picture.  I can’t emphasize enough you need synthetic clothing such as:

• ​ Waders  – if your waders are old and leaky you will be hating it. In the field in SW Alaska is the last place we want to be repairing waders that have needed repairs for some time. I recommend any brand that has 3 or more layers in the knees, seat. If your on the fence about buying a new pair, buy a new pair. You will be satisfied. Felt is outlawed in AK so you would need rubber bottom wading boots. NO CLEATS! Cleats will damage the rubber rafts beyond repair.
• Jackets  – once again no old leaky jackets. You want as supreme of rainproof/waterproof as you can get. I highly recommend Gore-Tex but nowadays a lot of the competition is using the same technology. I carry 2 Gore-Tex equivalent coats and one rubber raincoat. I recommend bringing two coats, maybe one that is lighter than the other. With that said if you have a light rain jacket it is waterproof just make sure to bring the layers for warmth.
• Wool  – it works really well but if it gets wet it will stay wet. Wool socks are pretty much a necessity.
• Sleeping bags  – probably want to default to warmth for this. I carry a 20-degree bag, I wouldn’t go any higher than 35. A very stuffable bag is preferred and once again have a nice quality bag. Not a 25-dollar Costco.

Recommended Fishing Gear

We recommend bringing a primary trout and/or dolly rod and a primary salmon rod.  A backup is nice to bring as well, but as mentioned we do have camp fishing gear that is more than adequate, especially for a backup rod. All setups require at least 100 yards of backing and short stout leaders.  We stay away from ANY Xs.  Maxima or equivalent is recommended, and we fish leaders straight from fly line to fly.  7.5 feet leaders are the longest we would ever fish. For Trout:   5, 6, 7 – We personally recommend 7 weights.  We have high-quality camp rods if guests need them.  All floating lines for trout and dolly varden. For Salmon:  7,8,9 – once again a 7-weight kind of bridges the gap.  All floating lines, with an aggressive Type III sink tip, are recommended.  We have high-quality camp rod setups if guests need them.

A small assortment of  attractor dry flies  can be fun for Dollies and Grayling, although the trout typically are not looking for bugs.  Humpies, Wulffs, and Chubbies all in big sizes (6-10) are great. EGGOS  (at least a dozen) Size 6 Egg Sucking Leech  (Black and Purples – a dozen between the two colors) – Size 4 Flesh Flies  (lots of color options including white, cream, flesh, etc.) Various Sizes (2-even 12’s) articulated are best DALI LLAMAS  – Olive/White, Black/White, Pink/White, Flesh/Pink size 2’s and 4’s (at least 2 dozen) Solitude Fly Co. has a great assortment. Mr. and Mrs. Hanky  – a mouse fly that is easy to throw and very effective (half a dozen each) BEADS  – we fish a variety of beads – different colors and different sizes.   www.troutbeads.com  has an Alaska assortment that covers the bases.  **We have collaborated with Hills Discount Flies in Colorado to put together a box of flies for the trip.  If you would like it contains the flies mentioned above, along with a few more salmon-specific flies as well.  Their website is  www.hillsdiscountflies.com  – it is highly recommended and quite affordable.**

Book an Alaskan Fishing Trip

Interested in learning more about our Alaskan Fly Fishing Trips? Fill out this form, and we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have!

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Fishing Gear List

The Gear List is ideally what you will pack. It is an “Essential Gear” list. The Essentials Gear List works for visitors & guides on 5-10 day back-country Alaskan float trips in June, July & Aug. All the clothing & gear would be appropriate for expeditionary fly fishing trips ranging from Patagonia, Argentina , to Scotland, New Zealand, to the Alaskan arctic and most of the clothing doubles as 4-season Steelhead fishing, backpacking, ski and snowboard clothing.

“Essentials List” For Alaska Float Trip:

• 1 Wading / rain jacket with hood. The best you can afford. *
• 1 Pair chest high waders ** Read our thoughts on waders.
• 1 pair Wading Boots . Rubber soles. No felt . Aluminum studs/bars are strongly recommended especially for anglers over 60 years of age or If you are not surefooted in moderate wading situations.
• 1 Pair camp shoes . Crocs are our preferred camp shoe, but Keens or Light hikers are perfectly sufficient.
• 1 Pair Polarized sunglasses (lighter lens colors). Croakie’s or chums retainer.
• 1 M ed-Heavy hoody jacket – Primaloft insulated jacket or polar fleece (Patagonia Nano Puff or similar synthetic)
• 1 light insulated vest  (Fleece or Primaloft)
• 1-2 Sets med. wt. Synthetic long underwear ***
• 1 Pair polyester polar fleece  wading pants or “expedition” wt. long-john bottoms ***
• 1 Pair “river, flats, or travel” pants (brushed nylon quick drying) ****
• 2 Long sleeve shirt , synthetic, quick drying in light colors such as tan, yellow. Dark blue attracts mosquitoes.
• 1-3 polypropylene T-shirt base layers
• 1 or more pair light gloves to fish in. The guides wear the nitrile 370 gardening gloves made by Atlas.
• 1 Pair of warm gloves – wool or synthetic
• 5-7 med-heavy, wool-blend or polypro socks (hint “Smartwool” or Merino). Socks labeled “wading, hiking, or trekking). Some bring less than 1 pair/day. No Cotton!
• 1 ball Cap style  hat w/bill
• 1 “Fuzzy” mid weight polar fleece beanie ski hat or “Bomber” style earflap hat for wind & cool wx. (Synthetic)
• 1 Small bottle mosquito repellant w/ “deet” ingredient
• 1-2 Buff neck gators for sun, wind, & insect protection
• 1  Insect head net
• 1 Toiletries kit , toothbrush, fem hygiene, prescriptions medications
• 3-5 underwear
• Prescription glasses as needed + Backups
• 1 Pocket or belt knife, Swiss army etc. As TSA allows.
• 1 small waterproof duffle , hip pack, or waterproof day pack. 20L Roll top or Patagonia Stormfront Waterproof Zipper or similar.
• 1 Pocket butane lighter . As TSA allows.
• 3-5 Stuff sacks or large Ziploc bags for clothing organization

* 3 layer Gore-Tex for “Extreme” rain gear by Simms, Patagonia, Mtn. Hardwear, Arcteryx, Northface, Marmot etc. Alternatively a high quality 100% waterproof rain jacket for commercial fishermen by Helly Hansen, Grunden etc.

** Gore-Tex waders for “Immersion” by Patagonia, Simms, Orvis, Redington or similar.

*** Generic polar fleece or Patagonia, REI, Northface, Simms, Mtn Hardwear etc

**** Ex-officio, Northface, Patagonia etc

“Essentials” Fly Fishing gear suggestions:

• 1-3 fly rods / reels per person (ideally 3-4 pc travel rods). A 6-7wt. and a 7-9 wt. ( 9-10 wt if specifically targeting trophy Kings in June-July. Switch rods are an option for Kings and Coho) Ask about loaner rods!
• Flies – Request our custom fly lists/ Bead kit with everything you need for a week on the river!
• Fly leaders & tippet material  – 10# maxima tippet for trout, grayling, char, 12-16# Maxima for salmon, 15-25# Maxima for kings. RIO 10-16# Salmon/Steelhead leaders or similar stiff, abrasion resistant, material.
• Fly Lines – Floating weight forward for Trout, Char, and Grayling (6-7 wt). Floating weight forward 7-9 for Salmon. Short sink tip line (12-15′) or poly leader for large Trout / Salmon on your heavy rod (8-9wt). Cold Water weight forward shooting lines or similar lines perform well with heavy flies & or windy conditions.
• Floatant, split-shot, pliers, line nipper/cutter, strike indicators, hemostat or sml. needle-nose pliers
• 1 Wading staff if needed

* Alaska Fly Fishing Goods. http://www.alaskaflyfishinggoods.com/

Book Your Trip >

About weight limits:

Optional within weight limits:

• Journal, Art supplies, Cameras & film, Memory Cards, Batteries, Small flashlight in August or Sept.
• Binoculars, Spotting scope, Field guides, Insect  jacket .
• GPS with loaded Bristol Bay base maps.
• Map set and Compass.
• Wading staff, Trekking, Bathing suit, shorts.

If you are more comfortable in your own sleeping bags, sleeping pads or dry bags, you are welcome to bring them after contact with us.

 DO NOT BRING  personal firearms – Guides will carry long guns with bear loads.

 DO NOT BRING bear spray ( We provide – not allowed by TSA), heavy, fragile, electronic or bulky items, your own tents, rafts, canoes, or kayaks.

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Packing list for alaska fishing trip – offshore fishing.

So you booked an offshore fishing trip in Alaska , and now you need to know what to take with you. Be sure to talk to your guide about any specific fishing gear that you should bring, but this packing list for Alaska fishing trip list should cover you.

Packing List for Alaska Fishing Trip

Offshore fishing gear for halibut and salmon..

We are making the assumption that your fishing guide will provide most of the gear for your trip. The packing list for your Alaska fishing trip as far as fishing gear is concerned is pretty simple. Depending on wether you’re salmon fishing , or fishing for halibut , your gear will change slightly. Be sure to ask your guide or fishing consultant for specifics.

GENERAL OFFSHORE FISHING GEAR

• Fishing pliers and/or hemostats
• Line clippers, pocket knife
• Small boat towel, sunglass wipe-cleaners
• Small first aid kit
• Waterproof bag for camera equipment etc.
• Panatone marking pens: orange, pink, yellow

PERSONAL ITEMS

• Passport (if needed), and copy of Passport
• Airline tickets, Credit cards, Wallet, Cash, Cell Phone/Charger
• Ballpoint pen and Sharpie
• Reading material
• Travel Insurance Documentation
• Travel toothbrush, toothpaste
• Bar of soap in a ziplock bag, shampoo
• Travel Kleenex tissues, packet of wet wipes
• Shaving and grooming articles
• Eye drops. Contact lens wearers should bring extra glasses (in case of irritation)
• 3M Nexcare waterproof bandages
• Moleskin with travel scissors (essential)
• Neosporin ointment
• Anti-diarrhea medicine (e.g. Imodium AD)
• Tylenol or Advil and throat lozenges
• Motion sickness pills
• Antacid (e.g. Pepto-Bismol tablets)
• Gold Bond medicated powder
• Sunscreen, at least 30 SPF, (bring extra)
• After-sun aloe-vera lotion
• Packets to mix with bottled water (e.g. Mio, Crystal Light)
• Insect repellent spray, Benadryl 2% cream (bugs are seldom a problem)
• Prescription medicine (2 week supply) – Bring any medication that you’re already taking and any that you think you might need on the trip.
• For Airport Security, carry copies of the Doctor Rx or the actual Prescription bottles.

GENERAL ITEMS

• Polarized sunglasses, (at least 2)
• Optical cloth cleaner or solution
• Small flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
• Travel alarm clock
• Extra luggage ID tags
• Gallon zip-lock bags for waterproofing and ice
• Small roll of Gorilla tape and zap a gap
• Personal clothes for climate, long underwear / wool or polar fleece socks / dinner clothes (casual nice)
• Warm sweater or Hooded coat for under rain gear.
• Layers of clothing for fishing. Including windbreaker.
• Hiking shoes + second pair of shoes.
• Sandals and shoes to wear around the lodge.
• Bug spray for mosquitoes and some no-seeums.

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Alaska fishing gear – what to pack, be prepared for everything when in comes to packing for an alaska fishing trip..

Here at Got Fishing™, we want to be sure that your prepared and have the correct gear for your Alaska fishing trip . The weather in Alaska is…. moody. Inclement is a good word for it.

A good “layering system ” is the best strategy, bar none, for staying comfortable.

One afternoon it might be 75 degrees, sunny, balmy even, then a front moves in and the wind starts blowing. It starts raining. Maybe even snowing, who knows… be prepared for everything when in comes to packing for an Alaska fishing trip.

Alaska Fishing Gear Necessities

• Layered clothing for any type of weather Mother Nature can throw at you
• Fishing rods (usually 8 weights, sometimes 6’s)
• Breathable waders
• A good pair of lug-sole boots with studs (felt is illegal)
• A waterproof backpack with thick straps that will accommodate rod tubes
• Chest pack and/or a good fanny pack
• Buff, sunglasses and a good cap

Clothing for Fishing in Alaska

• We recommend starting off with a polypropylene or Merino wool base layer next to your skin to wick moisture away from your body.
• Your second layer or alternative layer could be a medium to heavy-weight fleece, Merino wool or polypropylene shirt, sweater or pull-over.
• Your third layer, if even needed, can be a fleece or wool jacket.

• Anglers should also bring a few pair of heavy wool socks. We recommend that you try on your socks with your waders in your wading boots before coming to the lodge to insure that you have plenty of room to move your toes. Being unable to move your toes and the cramping of your feet in your boots are the biggest reasons for numb toes and cold feet..

Rods, Reels and Lines

At the height of the season, most of the action will be for silver salmon mixed with good numbers of 2 ½ to 5-lb. rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, with the odd grayling thrown in for variety.

The Best Flies to Take to Alaska

Other patterns commonly used are muddlers in various shades of black and brown, woolly worms, Mickey Finns, but probably 90%-plus of the silver salmon are caught on egg sucking leeches and popsicles. If you’re after Kings, black and blue flies just plain work .

Fishing Packs

Essentially you want a larger pack to carry extra layers and then a fishing pack such as a sling pack or a hip pack to carry flies, leaders, and other accessories. This can actually be transported to the river inside the larger pack and you are not going to need every accessory and every box of flies you own.

Your guide will tell you what you need and generally you will be fishing the same species during the course of the day. Take what you need in the smaller pack, and pack what you think you need in the larger pack, which can stay on the shore, in the boat, or on the plane.

Fishing Accessories

Once again this is not about needing everything under the sun: good forceps with scissors, a good nipper on a zinger, leader material from 4X up through 0X, indicators, and non-toxic split shot (it is doubtful you’ll be fishing alone and without a guide who will have all of the terminal tackle rigged and ready, but it doesn’t hurt to have some backup).

Polarized Sunglasses

Make sure your main pair are superior polarized lenses to cut the glare and allow you to see the bottom as well as the fish. Your backups can be lesser and there are some great less expensive fishing glasses out there.

Naknek River, Alaska Fly Fishing Lodge

Kanektok River, Alaska Flyout Fishing Lodge

Goodnews River, Alaska Fishing Lodge

Naknek River, Alaska Luxury Flyout Fly Fishing Lodge

Fly Fishing Guides

Alaska Wilderness Fishing Excursion

Kenai Wildlife Refuge Fishing Full Day Drifts

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Kenai River Fly Fishing Guides

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Lonely Plan-it: A fishing trip to Alaska

Apr 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Bird Creek in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains is lined with fisherman hoping to catch silver salmon © Karen Timmons / Getty Images

For many Alaska visitors, the chance to drop a line in the briny depths of the ocean, or cast a fly rod upon a rushing river, is the reason they’ve traveled north – and for good reason. There is nothing quite like fresh fish – caught amid the stunning scenery of Alaska – consumed over a dinner table filled with tales of the day itself.

Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is its second-largest economic generator, with a wide variety of species found across the state. From mid-April to August, saltwater fishing vessels of varying sizes and shapes take to the sea and net or line-catch salmon, halibut, cod and other species for markets around the world. Sport fishing is also a huge business in Alaska, including the Arctic and Northwest regions, where species like Arctic char are considered a fly-fisher’s dream for their fight on a line. 

For these reasons, you’ll need to consider the seasons, types of fishing and the most accessible locations for your fishing holiday. In a state with 3,000 rivers, three million lakes, and over 6,000 miles of coastline, the toughest part is deciding where to go. 

What are the regulations for fishing in Alaska?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is the state’s overseeing agency for all things sport fishing, and it tightly controls where, when, and what species you can catch. Dividing the state into three regions (Southcentral, Interior, and Southeastern) the agency provides up-to-date listings of open and closed areas, and forecasts for salmon runs each spring, when many anglers are making  plans for fishing trips. 

All nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a current fishing license , available either online or at retail outlets in just about every city. Additionally, those wanting to fish for king salmon must secure a stamp indicating this intention, which is added to your license. It must be noted here that the ADF&G does not take fishing without a license lightly: officers are constantly patrolling shorelines and salt waterways – and fines for non-licensed fishers are hefty.

Know your halibut from chinook

It behooves the fishing visitor to have an idea of what type of fish they’d like to catch while in Alaska. Those looking for salmon have the choice to fish in either saltwater near Whittier, Seward, Valdez or Homer and nearby environs; or in the rivers and streams flowing near these communities, but also in Anchorage and along the Southwest regional areas like Dillingham and Katmai National Park. 

Know that the farther away from the road system one goes, the more expensive fishing will get, especially if you need a float plane to reach a river. Alaska's waters house five species of salmon: chum, sockeye, pink, chinook and coho. Each spawn at different times of year, beginning with chinook (also known as king salmon) in late spring.

Other freshwater fish include Arctic char, grayling and trout – the latter usually fished in September and October. 

Saltwater species are abundant and accessible in any harbor community, but halibut are predominant in the community of Homer at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula . In fact it is known as the “halibut capital of the world” with fish hauled in here reaching 200 pounds in weight. 

Best destinations for a DIY fishing trip

• Cast a line into the river for world-class salmon fishing on the Kenai River near Cooper Landing .
• Head out to deeper waters of Cook Inlet from Homer to fish for halibut. 
• Show up to Ship Creek in Anchorage and rent the entire kit to fish like a local. 
• Fly-fish the sparkling waters of the Little Tok River near the community of Tok, in the Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve.
• Try the family-friendly Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan for a look at the dangerous deep-sea crab industry.  

Top tips for fishing in Juneau

Located along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau is a great landing spot for Southeast fishers wanting to haul in a halibut or salmon. Charters depart from both downtown docks and Auke Bay about 15 miles from the city center. 

Where to stay: Spend the night downtown at the Silverbow Inn and take in the charm of Alaska’s capital city. 

Where to eat: For fresh seafood and local atmosphere, dine at the Hangar on the Wharf and watch floatplanes and ships come in and out. 

What to expect in Seward 

A popular destination for both cruise ship and independent travelers, Seward is also a hotspot for Anchorage residents looking for a weekend getaway. The calm waters of Resurrection Bay glean salmon, halibut, rockfish and cod and are great places for youngsters to learn the art of saltwater fishing. 

Where to stay: Harbor 360 hotel sits right at the small boat harbor and offers a complimentary breakfast and access to downtown Seward activities, including fishing charters.

Where to eat: The Cookery in downtown Seward is small but its menu of fresh seafood and produce packs a delicious punch. 

Visiting Valdez

This scenic Prince William Sound community lives hard by the sea, with daily salmon, halibut, and rockfish charters departing from its small boat harbor. Visit during the pink salmon run in early July and see the commercial purse seiners hauling up enormous nets of delicious fish.

Where to stay: Totem Hotel and Suites is a good option and a short distance from the downtown docks. 

Where to eat: Try The Fat Mermaid for locally-sourced seafood right along the main street of Valdez and within walking distance to activities.

Remote fishing experiences in Alaska

If a remote fishing experience is on your bucket list and within budget, these lodges provide a truly immersive once-in-a-lifetime Alaska fishing trip. 

Waterfall Resort

Located on scenic Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, this homey lodge is reached via a 45-minute floatplane ride from Ketchikan and offers pristine scenery while fishing for salmon in the calm waterways around the island. This former salmon cannery-turned fishing lodge is a wonderful choice for groups and families. 

Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge

A luxury resort located near one of the most productive sockeye salmon waterways in Alaska, the Kvichak River, this lodge is for serious fishers, with daily guided forays into the wilderness to cast a line. Want to fly fish for trout? This is the place for that as well, with large fish regularly caught and released. 

Tordrillo Lodge

Want to throw in some other adventures while still finding time to fish? This hidden lodge deep in the Tordrillo Mountains just an hour floatplane ride from Anchorage is pretty much perfect, with salmon and trout fishing intermingled with heli-skiing, hiking, and rafting. 

Be bear aware

Alaska’s bears frequent the same fishing rivers and streams as humans, and they always have the right of way. If you are fishing without a guide, review the Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and guidelines for fishers , and always keep an eye out for bears, especially if fishing in the long, dusky Alaska evening hours. 

What to pack for your fishing trip to Alaska

If taking a charter vessel, dress for inclement weather and a near-constant day of wetness and fish scales. Wear rubber boots, or non-slip, close-toed shoes – and bring rain gear, a warm hat and gloves. 

For those heading out into the open waters of Prince William Sound or the Gulf of Alaska, consider pre-dosing with an anti-seasickness medication or wearing a behind-the-ear patch to prevent nausea during the trip. Even the most ardent sailors sometimes feel the rolling ocean swells to be too much to manage without medicine. 

For river fishers, waders are a must, and non-felt wading shoes. 

Don’t have gear? There’s no need to worry: most guiding outfits provide everything you need for a comfortable experience. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Alaska:

The best time to go to Alaska? Save this guide on when to visit .  Get around in Alaska with these  transport tips .  Be sure to add these top experiences to your Alaska itinerary. And make time for some epic road trips  to the highlights in Alaska.

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Fly Fishing Gear In Alaska

Clothing for fly fishing in alaska.

The weather in Alaska is constantly changing. One afternoon it may be 75 degrees and sunny with a change a few hours later with rain, wind and temperatures in the low 50’s. It is not uncommon to have morning temperatures in the upper 30’s & lower 40’s with the afternoon warming up to 60 degrees. With this being the case, the “layering system “ is the best strategy to staying comfortable the duration of your fly fishing trip in Alaska. This way we can adapt to whatever Mother Nature dishes out.

Rainbow River Lodge recommends starting off with polypropylene next to your skin. This is often a pair of thermal underwear. Try and stick to synthetic or synthetic wool blend as this will wick moisture away from your body.   

Your   second layer   or alternative layer could be a medium to heavy weight wool or polypropylene shirt, sweater or pull-over. Pull over fleece garments are also a great choice.   

Your   third layer , if even needed, can be a fleece or wool jacket.   

Your   final layer   will be the most important. This is the rain jacket that you choose. We recommend high quality Gore-Tex type products. These products work the best and will protect you from both from wind and rain. Waxed cotton jackets such as Filson are also a fine choice.Anglers should also bring a few pair of heavy wool socks. We recommend that you try on your socks with your waders in your wading boots before coming to the lodge to insure that you have plenty of room to move your toes. Being unable to move your toes and cramping of your feet in your boots are the biggest reasons for numb toes and cold feet.

WADING EQUIPMENT:

Stocking foot waders   are the only way to go. Neoprene waders have their place and work well, but Gore Tex / Breathable waders have totally revolutionized wading equipment. They will allow your lower body to “breath” helping to reduce moisture build up, keeping you warmer. They are also very comfortable to fish in all day. To stay warm in Gore-Tex waders simply wear fleece pants underneath. Lastly, Gore-Tex waders take up a fraction of the space that neoprene waders take-up leaving you more room in your duffel bag.

Wadding Boots have to be non-felt type   as required by the State of Alaska Please no studs or cleats as they are very hard on our planes and boats

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED FISHING EQUIPMENT AND GEAR

• Polarized Sunglasses (Amber or Copper lenses are best)

Day Pack/Backpack

Gallon Ziploc Bags (keeps items organized and dry in Day Pack)

Camera-Leaders (7.5 Feet 0x-4x)

Tippet (0x-4x)

Split Shot (b – bb)

Insect Repellant

Hemostats / Pliers

Nippers-Strike Indicators

Plastic Garbage Bags (nice for packing wet items when returning home)

Shorts for Sauna at Lodge

The supplies above should be sufficient fly fishing gear for Alaska. If you have any questions about what to bring on the trip please contact Rainbow River Lodge.

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Fly Fishing Gear for Alaska: What Should You Bring?

So you’ve finally pulled the trigger on a fly fishing trip to Alaska . The plane tickets are booked, arrangements have been made for time out of the office, and excitement is at an all-time high. But then you look at your clothes and fishing gear scattered around the house and realize you are nowhere near finished packing. Packing for a fishing trip can be stressful; however, with a few pointers anyone makes packing quick and efficient.

When planning a trip to Alaska, one of the most important things to keep in mind is the weather can change at a moment’s notice so it’s critical to be prepared. In June and July anglers can typically expect temperatures in the 50s and 60s and then in August and September temperatures, on average, will be in the 60s with warmer days being in the 70’s. However, with weather systems moving off the ocean or mountain ranges, temperatures can fluctuate drastically so be sure to pack layers. A good rain jacket is crucial as well as a warm fleece or mid-layer, and then finally a non-cotton base layer. A Nano-puff synthetic jacket makes a terrific mid-layer since it's light and has little bulk while a non-cotton shirt will do great for your first layer.

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+ Alaska Fly Fishing Equipment List

Make sure to pack your waders. No fishing trip to Alaska would be complete without your most important piece of equipment. With that said you should also make sure you’re waders don’t leak. Nothing can put a damper (literally) on a trip faster than pinholes. Turn your waders inside out and use a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol to cover the insides. Any pinhole will appear as a dark circle. After locating the hole use aqua seal or an equivalent to repair it. As for boots, be sure to bring ones that are rubber-soled. In 2012 Alaska banned the use of all felt-soled wading boots in its rivers and bodies of water.

Now that you’ve got your clothes laid out, we should discuss what you should bring for fly rods. Depending on which species you plan to target your rod will vary.

• Rainbow Trout, Char, and Grayling: 6 to 7 weight rod that’s fast enough to deliver a large fly in windy conditions. Bring a quality reel with a strong drag to hold up against long runs and should be able to hold a full line plus 150 yards of 20 lb. backing. A high quality, smooth disc drag is important. Be sure to use a floating freshwater line (WF5 to WF7 to match the rod). A sink-tip or “streamer express” line is also a good thing to bring (200 – 250-grain head).
• King Salmon: Pack 9 to 10 weight rods strong enough to cast large flies on a heavy sink tip. Again you should have a quality reel with a strong drag to hold up against long runs and should be able to hold a full line plus 150-200 yards of 30 lb. backing. A high quality, smooth disc drag is essential. For lines, use a sink tip (20-25 feet long) with 300 – 350-grain head. For shallow water conditions have a weight forward floating freshwater line as well to match rod weight.
• Silver, Chum, Sockeye, Pink Salmon, Steelhead, and Northern Pike: Pack 8 to 9 weight rods that are strong enough to cast, large, heavily weighted flies and sink-tip lines. Use a quality reel with a strong enough drag to hold up against big runs. Should be able to hold a fly line plus 150-200 yards of 20 lb. backing, and high quality, smooth disc drag is essential. Bring a WF floating freshwater line to match the rod weight along with a sink tip line with a 250 – 300-grain head.

Aside from rods and reels be sure to pack your sunglasses. Having a quality pair of sunglasses will allow you to see in the water for that iconic sight-fishing experience. We recommend a light amber, copper, or brown color, as well as a pair with grey lenses for overcast days. In addition to sunglasses, insect repellant is a staple for every trip to Alaska.

Talk to any Alaskan guide and they can tell you about apocalyptic clouds of mosquitos. That may be a bit of an overstatement but take heed, mosquitos are extremely prevalent, and you should be adequately prepared with bug spray that contains DEET. Along with your bug spray, you should pack sunscreen as well.

Since Alaska is so far north, the sun will shine all day long during the summer months. With up to 18 hours of sunshine a day, it’s important that you protect your skin from the harmful rays.

With a little preparation, your trip and experience in Alaska will be nothing but pleasant. And as always, don't hesitate to contact Yellow Dog with any questions or last-minute concerns.

+ Listen to this WAYPOINTS Podcast: CAMILLE EGDORF - Alaska Trip Planning and How to Do it Right

Related Articles:

• The Yellow Dog Team's Top Flies for Alaska
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We offer trip insurance with a cancel-for-any-reason policy.

Alaska Fishing Trips

Alaska Fish On Charters provides you a full service Alaska salmon fishing and halibut experience that is second to none. With over 70 years of Alaska fishing experience combined on the Kenai River and the Halibut fishing grounds, our fishing guides provide you with all the tools you need to have a spectacular fishing adventure. We don’t brag we let our repeat clients do it for us, our goal is to send clients home with fish for their freezer and memories that last forever. Thank you for your interest in our Business!

Looking to book an exciting and rewarding Alaska fishing trip? Alaska Fish On Charters provides full service Alaska fishing trips with salmon fishing and halibut fishing experience that is second to none. With over 70 years of experience guiding Alaska fishing trips on the Kenai river and the Halibut fishing in the Cook Inlet. The Kenai river is world renowned for salmon fishing and the Cook Inlet is highly regarded for its halibut fishing. Alaska Fish On Charters is located in the perfect location for Alaska fishing trips.

Our Alaska fishing guides provide you with all the tools you need to have a spectacular Alaska fishing trip. We don't brag - we let our repeat clients do it for us, and our goal is to send clients home with fish for their freezer and memories that last forever. Thank you for your interest in Alaska fishing trips and in Alaska Fish On Charters!

Alaska fishing trips vary greatly depending on what river you fish, and many of Alaska’s rivers offer breathtaking locations for you to enjoy. The Kenai River is a prime location for reeling in King Salmon , Silver Salmon , Red Salmon and Pink Salmon, as well as Trophy Trout . Other great rivers to utilize during Alaska fishing trips are the Kasilof River, the Ninilchik River, Deep Creek and more. Alaska is also known as the best place in the world to go halibut fishing , and once you boat a halibut during your Alaska fishing trip you will understand why. If you book an Alaskan fishing trip with us, we’ll ensure that you will get the most out of your trip to the Last Frontier.

Alaska Salmon Fishing Trips

Alaska salmon fishing may be some of the best fishing in the world, especially when your trip has a guide with experience, patience, and professionalism on the Kenai and Kasilof  Rivers. Our passion for salmon fishing on these Rivers, providing exciting and fulfilling Alaska fishing trips for eager fishermen, and teaching the craft to others makes salmon fishing with Alaska Fish On Charters a personal experience, and one you’ll remember for years. Whether you are looking for the thrill of fishing King Salmon, Red Salmon or Silver Salmon, we have it all.  Our clients enjoy the company of our knowledgeable salmon fishing guides.  We have a high success rate of satisfied customers who rave about our Alaska fishing trips, along with letters of recommendation to prove it, too. We have a high success rate of satisfied customers who rave about our Alaska fishing trips, along with letters of recommendation to prove it, too.

Alaska Halibut Fishing Trips

Alaskan halibut are some of the most sought after fish in the world and can be a great addition to the best Alaska fishing trips. Clients like the moist, flakey texture of halibut that goes with just about anything. The Cook Inlet is known for some of the best Alaskan halibut fishing around, and definitely a must-visit spot on any Alaska fishing trip. In fact, Homer is the Alaskan halibut fishing capital. Alaska Fish On Charters has an abundance of knowledge, from the best time of day and year to fish to the type of bait to use, to provide you with the ultimate Alaska Halibut fishing trips. Halibut are thrilling to fish for. These flatfish that linger at the depths of the water provide an exciting challenge for everyone during their Alaska trip, and you never know what size you’re going to catch when you drop your line down. Halibut range anywhere from 10 lbs to 410 lbs…

Alaska Trophy Trout Fishing Trips

Alaskan trout is highly sought after by many fisherman. Enhance your Alaska fishing trip by committing to catching a trophy trout, and let Alaska Fish On Charters help you accomplish it. If you choose to embark on an Alaska fishing trip, you’ll learn that this state has many different places to fish for these brightly-colored, acrobatic fish.The Kenai River is a fly fisherman’s paradise and an essential stop on the best Alaska fishing trips. The state of Alaska has rivers that will produce trophy trout, but many people can’t afford to pay $5,000 to $7,000 for a week of fishing. At Alaska Fish On Charters, we offer trophy trout fishing for less than $2,000, which is an option that is great for your budget, but that still provides a stellar Alaska fishing trip experience.

Alaska Fly-in Fishing & Bear Viewing

Alaska fly-in fishing trips are a great addition to any Alaska fishing package.  When you are fishing for salmon or trout on a secluded Alaska fly-in trip you have a good chance of seeing bears in their natural habitat. Alaska bear viewing is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alaska! If you have never witnessed bears in their natural habitat, it is something you will remember forever. The best place to experience this is on a fly-in fishing trip. Compliment your Alaska fishing trips with this exciting addition – Alaska Fish On Charters can help you plan a day trip to witness a truly unique Alaska experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

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Alaska Fishing Packages

Alaska Fish On Charters offers a wide variety of feature-filled, competitively priced Alaska fishing packages out there. We have reduced the prices of our Alaska fishing packages to meet your budget and allow you to eat at some of the finest restaurants in Alaska! Our Alaska Fishing Packages have very competitive prices but that don’t mean we don’t have a quality guide service. We have some the best guides money can buy, and they are all available to help make the most of your trip in our Alaska Fishing Packages. We don’t like bragging about it – we catch fish to prove it. With our Alaska fishing packages, we don’t like to put you on a time frame and tell what time of the day you have to eat, so enjoy the savings and we will show you where to eat. If you want to put all your focus on the fishing, we’ll take care of making the food decisions for you. If you enjoy cooking and want to be hands-on in that aspect of your Alaska fishing trip, we also have kitchens in all of our lodging that is yours to use while staying with us. Our Alaska fishing packages are flexible so that you are guaranteed to have the experience you desire and catch the fish you came to Alaska for.

Captain’s Special (Aug & Sept)

Salmon & halibut package.

• 4 Nights of Lodging
• 1 – guided halibut fishing trip
• 2 – 5 1/2hr trips of Guided Silver or Sockeye Salmon Fishing
• First 50 lbs. of Fish Processing and 1 Airline approved box.
• (All Fishing Gear and Lodging Necessities are Included)
• (All packages are changeable upon your request before booking add to or take away just ask)
• $1,450 per person for 4 guests | $1,565 per person for 3 guests | $1,750 per person for 2 guests |$2,500 for 1 guest

Relatives Paying for Shipping (May)

Halibut & king salmon combo package.

• 6 Nights of Lodging
• 2 Full Days of Guided King Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof River
• 2 Full Days of Guided Halibut & Salmon Combo on Cook Inlet or Gulf of Alaka Waters
• First 100 lbs. of Fish Processing and 2 Airline approved boxes.
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $2,165

Fish & Go (June)

King salmon package.

• 3 Full Days of Guided King or Sockeye Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof River
•  First 50 lbs. of Fish Processing and 1 Airline approved box.
• (All packages are changeable upon your request before booking add to or take away  just ask)
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $1,435 

Should Have Stayed Longer (June)

Halibut & king salmon package.

• 5 Nights of Lodging
• 2 Full Days of Guided King or Sockeye Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof Rivers
• 1 Day of Guided Halibut Fishing on the Cook Inlet or Gulf of Alaska Waters
• 1 Day of Sight Seeing or Fishing on Your Own – We Will Point You in the Right Direction
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $1,595

View All Fishing Packages

Kenai Peninsula

Your Alaska fishing trip doesn’t have to solely focus on fishing. There are many great restaurants and stores to enhance your Alaska fishing trip. Why pay top dollar for an all inclusive Alaska fishing trip when you can eat at some of the finest restaurants on the Kenai Peninsula to truly experience the life of the locals in the great Frontier? Check out the great food and stores within minutes of all our lodging as an added bonus of our Alaska fishing trips. The Kenai Peninsula has a lot of options to meet your needs.

Find Local Establishments

Alaska Fishing Guides

While fishing guides are common throughout the state, having the right guide makes a tremendous difference on your Alaska fishing trip. At Alaska Fish on Charters, we provide services that will make your adventure meet all of your expectations and enhance your Alaska fishing trip experience to the highest level. Alaska is a wonderful land of breathtaking beauty, and the best way to experience Alaska fishing trips and the Kenai River is with a trusted guide at your side. Alaska Fish on Charters is the go-to place to find the best guides to take you on the Alaska fishing trip of a lifetime.

Meet Our Fishing Guides

Alaska Fishing Vacation

An Alaska fishing trip vacation wouldn’t be complete without a guided Kenai River adventure . You can choose between a variety of Alaska fishing trips with complete packages and stay in our comfortable fishing lodge for four to seven nights. Of course, there will be plenty of Alaska salmon on this Alaska fishing tip, but there are also days when you can explore other great features of the beautiful Kenai Peninsula. From high-end shops and restaurants to plane and helicopter rides, to exploring the wildlife, you’ll never run out of things to do on your Alaska fishing trip.

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There are an endless number of ways to prepare salmon, but there is nothing better than savoring the taste of wild Alaskan salmon....

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Alaska Fishing Trip Packing List

When it comes to packing for a remote trip in Alaska you want to try to keep your bags as light as possible while still bringing the most crucial items. Try to pull double duty as often as you can. Make sure to bring quality rain gear with a completely waterproof fabric like GORE-TEX. It will also help cut the wind. As you may know. the temperatures on the Nushagak can vary greatly in June, July and August when you’d be here. 40- to 60°F is a common daytime temperature range during the fishing season in Bristol Bay, Alaska. That is why layering under your outerwear will be critical. Starting with a base layer set of long underwear, adding a mid layer with more wind resistance, and for some another heavy outer layer will be necessary depending on whether you run hot or cold.

The nice thing is you are not too far from the lodge and we always take care of the well-being of people first, it sure would be a bummer for you and your group to have to take time out from some hot fishing action because your gear fails. Quality rubber boots, preferably insulated, like those made by Xtratuf or Grundens are a must have for fishing over a good pair (or two) of wool socks. You just don’t want your socks and boots to be too tight because airflow is a factor in a good system to keep your feet warm.

We hope this advice and Alaska packing list are helpful to you as you get ready to head out to Nushagak River Adventures Lodge this summer. For more advice on what to wear in Alaska visit our blog.

What To Pack For Alaska (Clothing, Gear & Everything Else)

Planning your Alaska packing list isn’t as easy you may have thought. You need to be prepared for all types of weather, as the weather in Alaska can change at the drop of a hat.

We spent 4 weeks traveling all over Alaska during the months of May and June, classic Alaska spring, so we needed to be prepared for all weather conditions.

Hot Tip: Pack light if you are planning to travel by small plane or float plane in Alaska. Many only allow you to carry on 25 lbs and no more. This includes your clothing and camera gear.

Ultimate Alaska Packing List

Table of Contents

Section 1: Clothing

Layering your clothing is the only way to maximize your comfort in the outdoors of Alaska. All clothing you pack for traveling to Alaska should be interchangeable.

The layering concept is simple and it allows you to make quick adjustments based on the weather and your activity level. Each layer has a function. The base layer (anything against your skin) manages moisture.

Next is the insulating layer that protects you from the cold. The outer layer shields you from wind and rain. It’s simple and sweet and you can add or subtract layers as needed.

The best socks for outdoor comfort in Alaska are made of Merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Rather than absorbing moisture, these fabrics wick away perspiration.

You want to bring socks that can work with whatever activity you are taking on but yet also add comfort. Keep your feet dry and change your socks often.

That said, we lived in our Merino wool socks. If you will be up to some very extreme hikes with the possibility of hiking through water, check out these Water Proof Socks .

Long Underwear

Alaska has cooler temperatures so you will need some type of long underwear. Thermal underwear is available in light, mid-heavy, heavy and the type you get should match what your activity and temperature are.

I like tight-fitting when I’m hiking or kayaking but if I’m just lying around in a lodge I like loose-fitting. Buy what you are comfortable with wearing.

The best fabrics for base layers are Merino Wool or Polyester/Elastane. Make sure you try on your base layer with anything you may wear over it so you can tell if it will feel ok or if you will have to get a larger size of pants or shirts. 

Under Armour ColdGear  is a great choice for both men and women looking for a great top base layer item. In addition to the compression top, Under Armour also makes great compression leggings for men and women that serve as an excellent base layer on those colder hiking days.

• Sleep Shirt

You can use a special sleep shirt or bring an everyday T-shirt. It really depends on the person.

I like to use something lightweight. I’ve traveled for the past years with the same sleep shirt and it is the only sleep shirt I will sleep in.

As we’ve already mentioned, you are going to want to pack a variety of shirts when packing for Alaska. Think lightweight and breathable. Long-sleeve shirts work the best for keeping off the sun along with bugs.  

Hot Tip: Cotton material is not recommended for any Alaska outdoor activity as the fabric does not easily dry and once wet has no insulation. It is best to avoid packing any cotton type items.

I would not go nuts but maybe bring one or two pairs of shorts to Alaska. Many days do get nice, so you will be happy you packed shorts.

The best shorts we used for our time in Alaska were the Duluth Trading Dry on the Fly Shorts . They are made for both men and women which is great, and are lightweight, breathable and insulate even when wet.

Your hotel may have a pool, hot tub or sauna for you to use. Or if you are feeling adventurous you can jump on into one of the many lakes Alaska has. Why not take part in the polar plunge if you are on that cruise ship. We did!

Also, if you make it up to Fairbanks , don’t miss out on a visit to the Chena Hot Springs for a therapeutic soak.

You will probably be living in pants in Alaska. I like my outdoor pants for hiking but I love my insulated pants for early morning wildlife viewing.

Top hiking pants we used while in Alaska were the Men’s Columbia Silver ridge pant . These were great because the pants work overtime to keep you cool and comfortable with an advanced wicking fabric and UPF 50 sun protection.

For the ladies, you cannot go wrong wearing the Duluth Trading Women’s DuluthFlex Dry On The Fly Slim Leg Pants .  They are lightweight yet durable with a comfortable waistband with elastic panels. Built-in flex provides more comfort during your day on the move.

Word of advice from us, pack jeans sparingly . We each packed one pair for our 4 weeks in Alaska. We wore them only when we were in towns and going out.

Jeans really have no place in the wilderness, hiking, fishing, etc. They are heavy and retain water, so don’t plan to wear jeans when you’re exploring the outdoors.

The best type of belt to pack for Alaska is anything that is not leather. Leather will not dry well if it gets wet. A fabric belt works the best.

• Light Sweater

A lightweight sweater is a must when packing for Alaska. So mark it down on your Alaska packing checklist. You will find this is what you will be living in.

For me, I loved wearing my Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Layer Pro 1/4-Zip Pullover . This is the perfect insulating layer for cold weather activities.

It offers warm, lightweight, quick-drying performance, with a high collar that adds an extra measure of protection against the chill.

Hot Tip: Don’t go cheap with your clothing you are going to pack for Alaska. Get clothing that has been proven in the outdoors and the elements. This will give you maximum comfort.

This is nice to throw over that lightweight sweater. I would look for one that is waterproof, has down-fill and is rated for cold weather.

Most, if not all will roll up into a ball so you do not have to worry about the vest taking up much room in your bag. Truth be told, we lived in our vests in Alaska.

We both really enjoy the Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown Vests . Made for both men and women , these vests are w indproof and have a 50% recycled 20D Ripstop polyester shell.

Warm Jacket

It’s going to be cold at times on your Alaska adventure so you will want a heavy jacket. Make sure it is something that is packable and something that is waterproof.

Just like we mentioned above, it is again an Eddie Bauer item for the win. We love the men’s and women’s Downlight StormDown Jackets .

Similar to the vest they are 800 fill down and feature a StormRepel DWR finish to shed moisture, keeping you dry and warm.

• Rain Jacket

Not all rain jackets are the same, don’t go cheap on this. You will probably be wearing this more often than you think in Alaska. Get one that you can also use as a light jacket .

We like rain jackets that come with armpit zips , so when we are hot we can just zip those down and cool off quickly.

A great rain jacket choice is the Columbia EvaPouration Jacket made for both men and women .

This is something nice to have in Alaska because you just can slip them over your pants quickly when it is wet out.

They are nice for not just rain but early in the morning if you are bear viewing the grass will be wet from the dew. This is a key part of clothing for you to enjoy Alaska.

Frogg Toggs are a great budget-friendly product when it comes to rain gear. We both enjoy using their rain bottoms since they are available to both men and women . 

Snow pants are recommended for the winter months. If you are chasing the northern lights in Alaska they are 100% a must. For any other season, do not pack them, you will not need them.

Hot Tip: If you forget something, don’t panic! You will be able to find items in Alaska at outdoor clothing shops. The prices are comparable to the lower 48.

It is smart to pack a couple of hats for Alaska. This helps keep the elements off your head. A basic ball cap to keep off the sun. A good winter cap to keep your head and ears warm from the cold, even in the summer.

A rain cap to keep your head from getting wet. I know what you are thinking, I’m not taking all of those different hats.

Well, it goes back to what your school teacher and your mother would tell you “ Cover your head, otherwise you will get sick.”

You want to find something that will not only keep your head warm but also something that will cover your ears. Even if you are not a winter hat fan you should bring one to Alaska. You will probably be living in it.

Hot Tip: You can find laundry mats in most cities. The normal cost is $2.00 to wash and $2.00 to dry.  Some of the major cruise ships have laundry facilities.

You will need some good gloves when you are exploring Alaska. You want to find a light pair that you can operate your camera and smartphone with such as the North Face Apex Etip gloves that are available for both men and women.

I would also recommend a waterproof pair. You want your hands to stay warm and that’s hard to do in the Alaskan environment.

Anything with a good solid sole is great for Alaska. The very best choice is anything that is waterproof .

Try out your shoes before you go off on your Alaskan adventure, you do not want to be hiking in shoes that haven’t been broken in. It will make your trip miserable.

We use and like Keen Sandals , Crocs waterproof shoes and Merrell hiking shoes . Rubber boots are a must if you are doing any wildlife viewing on a boat because you will shore dock.

Almost all boat docking in Alaska is done by pulling up on to the shoreline with skiffs, you will get wet.

Hot Tip: Depending on the time of the year Alaska has a High UV index rating. So do not forget to cover up, it may be cool out but the sun is still shining.

• Quick Dry Towels

You will need something that drys relatively easy in Alaska and the best option is quick-drying towels .

• Buff Headwear

We love our buff headwear because you can wear them in 16 different ways. This is a must-have item for any traveler.

Use it to cover your face from the wind, use it to cover your head, our Buff’s go on all of our adventures. We typically carry 2-3 different patterns (each!) in our bags when we travel.

Keep the bugs off without ruining your visibility. Bugs can be bad in Alaska, so be prepared with a head net that you can throw on over your hat.

Most head nets pack into a little ball, that makes it great for Alaska packing. This is a packing must for the summer months in Alaska. Locals joke that the bugs will be able to carry you away.

HOT TIP: Visit Alaska in the Spring!! We spent the month of May traveling throughout Alaska and there were little to no bugs. Call it luck or call it perfect.

• Sunglasses with Retainer Strap

The UV rays can be bad in Alaska, not many people think about that. You will need a good pair of sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses are the best to protect your eyes from the sun.

You should also think about a retainer strap since you do not want your sunglasses slipping off your head and ending up in the water. We like and use Costa Polarized Sunglasses and Suncloud Polarized Sunglasses.

Eye Shade for sleeping

Did you know you sleep the best when it’s the darkest? Alaska is known for its 80 days of uninterrupted daylight. You can count on long hours of daylight if you’re visiting in Spring, Summer, and Fall.

We have to admit, we spent the first couple of weeks sleep deprived because it never got dark out. Easy solution, buy a sleeping eye mask to avoid this problem!

Hot Tip: If you plan to go wildlife viewing you do not want to wear bright colors; stick to browns, blacks, and greens.

Section 2: Personal Items

Yes, you can buy any of these products once you are in Alaska, but not having them with you to start will leave you somewhere wishing you had them.

We pack everything we need before we leave home because when we arrive somewhere, the last thing we want to do is shop. Save your precious travel time by being prepared from the moment you step off the plane.

• Sunblock: Raw Elements Eco Form Sunscreen, SPF 30 Plus, 3 Fluid Ounce
• Insect Repellent: Eco-Defense All Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray, No Deet
• First-aid Kit
• Motion Sickness Pills or Motion Sickness Bands
• Meds and Prescription Medications
• Travel Hand Wipes
• Travel Hand Sanitizer
• Alcohol or Antiseptic wipes
• Bar Soap (non-scented)
• Shampoo/Conditioner

I also love my Neatpack Hanging Toiletry Bag because it keeps all of my toiletries together and if the shampoo breaks it is contained.

Section 3: Gear

If you’re planning to spend any time in the outdoors without a guide or company, you should be prepared.

Alaska is made up of mostly rugged wilderness and not meaning to scare you, has more disappearances than any other state.

• Pocket Knife or Swiss Army Knife
• Gerber Bear Grylls Fire Starter
• EDC Peanut Lighter – Waterproof Fire Starter for Survival and Emergency Use
• Paracord or Paracord Bracelet
• Binoculars with Harness is a must if you are doing any wildlife viewing in Alaska.
• Petzl – ZIPKA Headlamp, 200 Lumens
• MPOWERD Luci Outdoor Inflatable Solar Lantern
• Travel Alarm Clock
• Hiker Hunger 100% Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
• Travel Duct Tape
• Garmin- inReach SE®+ Satellite Communicator
• Anker Portable Power Bank PowerCore 20000 mAh
• Universal Power Strip 6 Outlets
• Lifestraw Go Water Bottle
• Water Tablets
• Survival Blanket

Section 4: Bags and Backpacks

We found ourselves using a variety of bags during our trip. When we travel we each check a bag and we each carry on a bag. This is mainly because of the camera equipment we carry.

However, because we like to adventure, we find ourselves needing a variety of bags when we travel.

So we always pack extra day bags, dry bags, etc in our luggage when we travel. We used every single bag we brought to Alaska.

• Packing Cubes
• Pacsafe Toursafe AT25 Anti-Theft Wheeled Luggage
• Gonex 80L Foldable Travel Duffel Bag for Luggage
• Pacsafe Venturesafe X30 Anti-Theft Adventure Backpack
• Mars Bags-Ultra Durable Duffel Bag- 65 Liter Water Proof Bag
• Outdoor Products  Dry Bag 20-Liter
• Universal Waterproof Phone Case
• Aquamare Waterproof Pouch Dry Bag Case with Waist/Shoulder Strap Fanny Pack
• Thermal Bag for food and to bring home fresh fish from Alaska.

Section 5: Camping Gear

We buy our camping gear at REI . They offer great deals on all of the name brand camping items that you will need for Alaska (plus they offer a 1-year guarantee – return for any reason- policy!).

Below we will list what camping gear you should pack for Alaska. Keep in mind it is best to buy your gear at home instead of paying great Alaska prices.

• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Bag Liner
• Sleeping Pad
• Bottle opener/corkscrew
• Plates, bowls
• MSR Alpine Utensil Set
• MSR Alpine Spatula
• MSR PocketRocket Stove

Section 6: Camera Gear

We have put together a shortlist of what camera gear you should pack when traveling to Alaska. We want you to get those amazing shots and you need to have the right gear to do that.

Do not forget to pack extra batteries, this is a must when visiting Alaska. The weather variations will suck your batteries dry. We recommend always packing at least 3 extra batteries.

The wildlife photography opportunities are abundant in Alaska and having the right camera gear to capture it is essential. You will not get shots like this without a good tripod and a sharp telephoto lens .

If you would like to see our full list to camera gear you should pack when traveling, check out our Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List.

• Canon 6d DSLR Body
• Canon 24-105mm L Lens
• Sony FDRAX53/B 4K HD
• Camera Rain Covers

GoPro Cameras/Gear

• GoPro Extra Batteries
• GoPro Karma Grip
• Power Cords
• DJI 4 Phantom Professional Drone
• KNEKT Dome & Trigger System
• Nikon KeyMission 360

Section 7: Everything Else

Make sure you pack some fun stuff to play within Alaska. You will have some downtime and what better way to make friends is by playing games.

Some of our most memorable travel moments have been while sitting in camp playing games. Below are some fun items you should pack.

• Playing Cards , Uno Cards , Skip-Bo Cards
• Glow Sticks
• Flying Discs

Men’s Alaska Packing List

• Thermal Underwear (Top & Bottom)
• Sleep Pants
• Long Sleeve Shirts
• Heavy Sweater
• Light Jacket
• Heavy Jacket
• Hiking Boots

Women’s Alaska Packing List

• Swimsuits (Top and Bottom)

Other Considerations

Alaska’s climate.

In the early mornings, it can be cool out. In the mid-afternoon, the sun is at its fullest so if it is not raining, it can be hot. As the late afternoon sun moves or as the rain blows out it will get colder again.

Now that I have you thinking about the weather, let us think about what activity you are doing in Alaska: bear viewing, wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking, hunting or fishing.

Each activity adds another element that you need to prepare for.

We’ve included some average weather estimations around Alaska’s weather below to give you an idea of what to expect.

Over All Totals and Averages for Alaska’s Weather

• Annual High Temperature: 43.7 F
• Annual Low Temperature: 30.0 F
• Average Temperature: 37 F
• Average Annual Precipitin: 16.57 inches
• Days per year with Precipitation: 103 Days
• Annual Hours of Sunshine: 1992 Hours
• Av. Annual Snowfall: 74 Inches

Outdoor Brands We Love

These are companies that make quality outdoor products that actually hold up to travel and outdoor adventures.

If you look anywhere on this site or any of our social media accounts where we share photos, you will see photos of us wearing and using these products daily.

We are not affiliated with these companies, we just want you to get the right quality gear to make your Alaska adventure a trip of a lifetime.

• Columbia Outdoor Clothing  makes quality outdoor products for men and women. Their products have outlasted almost everything in my backpack.
• Smartwool  is yet another great outdoor company that makes quality products. They really do keep you warm and they last forever.
• Eddie Bauer makes true and tested outdoor clothing that we love. We both lived in our micro-lite storm down vests during our 4 weeks in Alaska.
• I have had one pair of Merrell shoes for over two years. I’ve done more hiking in these shoes than any other pair I own. These have by far surpassed my expectations in durability and comfort.
• I’ve had the same Bluff Works Pants  for three years now. These are the pants you see me wearing in every photo on our adventure travel blog.

More on Alaska:

• 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska
• 27 Things You Should Know About Alaska Before You Visit
• 15 Incredible & Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown
• 13 UNREAL Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
• 13 Epic Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska (Besides Northern Lights)
• Ultimate Alaska Road Trip Guide
• Alaska National Parks-The Fabulous 8
• Is Spring the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?
• Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chena Hot Springs
• 11 Reasons to Take an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise with UnCruise

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Casting call: Urban and remote Alaska are where fishing dreams come true

Anglers fish during the Coho Rodeo Derby at Ship Creek in Anchorage. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Sensational silvers and killer kings. Trophy-worthy trout and fantastically finned grayling. Hearty halibut and rewarding reds. It’s a lineup of Alaska’s finest fishing action, and these spectacular species — and many more — are all within casting distance, driving distance and short-flight distance of Anchorage.

Yes, Alaska’s largest, busiest and most populated urban hub is also a sport fishing fantasy … and that isn’t a fishing tale. Even the most secretive fisherman brags about this fishery, and it couldn’t be kept secret anyway: Anchorage is a mainstay on any “America’s Best Fishing Cities” list.

“We’re very fortunate here in Southcentral, where we have so many diverse fisheries,” said Jay Baumer in a 2022 interview. Baumer is a sports fisheries manager biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game who manages the Anchorage, Prince William Sound and North Gulf Coast regions. He added: “You can go fishing for a wide variety of species and have different opportunities, whether it’s a remote experience or you just want the convenience of something nearby. We’ve got it all here, which is fantastic.”

“You can go fishing just about anywhere in Anchorage,” Dan Bosch said in a 2018 interview. Bosch is a passionate fisherman, now retired from a longtime role at Fish and Game, most recently as regional management coordinator for the Anchorage area. “It’s some of the best fishing around. And the accessibility — it’s so easy. Right at your doorstep.”

For Anchorage visitors, that includes the doorsteps of local lodging. The community is covered in streams, creeks and lakes that are packed and stocked with tens of thousands of fun, fighting fish. And there are seemingly endless fishing options in areas around Southcentral Alaska.

Sportfishing is a year-round activity in Anchorage and Alaska, but the action surges in summer. From May to September, the fish counts are generally high, the midnight sun is warm and bright, and fishermen are giddy.

And after a tenuous 2023 fishing season that saw unprecedented restrictions and closures on sport and personal-use fishing of king salmon around the state’s Cook Inlet region, 2024 angling appears to be back to business as usual. And for fishermen in Alaska, that’s a big catch.

Where should you wet a line? Around Anchorage, practically anywhere there’s water, there are fish. Many of these fishing holes also offer peace, quiet and the natural vibe of wild Alaska. As you cast and relax, it’s easy to forget you’re in Alaska’s biggest city.

Ship Creek — Anchorage

One of Anchorage’s most exciting fishing holes is set in one of the city’s most popular hospitality hot spots — downtown. Ship Creek carves across Anchorage’s northern side, passing by the William Jack Hernandez Hatchery before depositing downtown into picturesque Cook Inlet. It’s a fishing oasis on the edge of Anchorage’s cityscape. Its waters are home to regular runs of summer salmon — kings early in the season, silvers (coho) later — and its banks are usually bustling with fishermen.

“Right downtown you can fish for king salmon and coho salmon,” said Bosch, himself a Ship Creek regular who has worked and fished the Anchorage area for decades. “If you haven’t fished there before, just watch what everyone is doing, if they’re using eggs or spinners, and where they are setting up along the creek.”

In its 2023 Season Summary, Fish and Game noted that “King salmon fishing in Ship Creek was good,” and added that “an estimated 1,326 king salmon were counted in Ship Creek for viewing and natural reproduction below the hatchery.” Coho, or silver, salmon fishing was especially hot, as the area’s bag limit was increased to six in August.

Other urban hot spots

Ship Creek might be the most visible venue, but incredible fishing opportunities abound in every corner of town and every direction of Southcentral Alaska. Anchorage lakes (Campbell, DeLong, Jewel, Mirror, Sand Lake) are loaded, and creeks (Bird, Campbell and Ship) and rivers (Eagle and Eklutna) are jamming with an array of fish: from several freshwater and landlocked salmon species to Dolly Varden/Arctic char and awesome Arctic grayling. Chester Creek runs through the center of town and can be great for rainbow trout (8-12 inches!), too.

Outside Anchorage action: Road trip reeling

Anchorage is also the jumping-off point for fishing adventures all over Southcentral Alaska and beyond. A short drive or quick hike in practically any direction from urban Anchorage adds more casting spots. For next-level groundfish and salmon fishing, drive south for an hour (Prince William Sound out of Whittier) or two (Resurrection Bay out of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula) or five (Kachemak Bay out of Homer on the Kenai Peninsula), or drive north for 30 minutes to two hours (Matanuska-Susitna Borough).

People fish for sockeye salmon in the Russian River in Cooper Landing. (Emily Mesner / ADN)

Some of Alaska’s — and the world’s — most exciting salmon fishing goes down on the Kenai Peninsula, a few hours’ drive south of Anchorage, where the Kenai, Russian, Anchor and Kasilof rivers flow flush with fish. This is action-packed angling for Alaska’s salmon species. It can also be combat fishing at its gnarliest. When the fish are running, anglers line the banks, practically shoulder to shoulder, while locals and guides motor boats up and down the rivers, homing in on hot spots. For most, that work is worth it when they land one of Alaska’s bright and hard-fighting salmon, creating photo-worthy only-in-Alaska moments that can be social media profile shots for years.

The fishing is also sweet in port towns like Whittier, Seward and Homer, which are all beautiful drives south of Anchorage. You can cast from their banks for salmon, but improve the odds and options by jumping aboard charter boats to chase the big, barn-door halibut and cruise along salmon runs as they return to their freshwater spawning grounds. Catching a big halibut is tough work, but it’s a different kind of fish fight. Instead of running and splashing like salmon, these flat lunkers are more likely to turn into dead weight as you slowly reel them up from the dark ocean bottom. They sometimes freak when nearing the surface and daylight, but handy deckhands are ready with a net and/or a gaff to snatch the flopping fish.

Fishermen clean halibut and lingcod, far left, in Kodiak harbor on Sept. 4, 2021, in Alaska. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

The port town of Valdez is an even longer drive away, but the roads there are about as scenic (glaciers, mountains, wildlife, waterfalls) as it gets, and once you’ve arrived, the fishing around Port Valdez and Prince William Sound is equally impressive.

Point your vehicle north from Anchorage and you’ll soon have awe-inspiring Denali looming large in your windshield, guiding you toward the glacier-carved and fish-filled Matanuska-Susitna Borough. You’ll find exciting fishing all around the Mat-Su, some less than an hour from Anchorage, some a little farther. When the salmon are running, the region’s rivers are slamming with fish and fishermen, especially the Deshka River, Willow Creek, Susitna Rivers, Eklutna Tailrace and Montana Creek. If you prefer a slower pace, there are dozens of lakes packed with grayling, trout, Arctic char and landlocked salmon; favorites include Nancy Lake, Big Lake, Rolly Lakes and Knik Lake. If you like lakes, consider packing a lunch and your gear, renting a canoe, and soaking up the evening sun and the peace of Alaska’s outdoors.

Outside Anchorage action: Flying fishing

If you’ve come all the way to Alaska to chase fish, you might as well dial up the fun to a once-in-a-lifetime experience by booking a fly-in fishing adventure. From Anchorage, floatplanes, skilled pilots and savvy guides will get you to the fish in high-flying fashion.

You’ll typically take off in a floatplane from Anchorage’s Lake Hood, which buzzes with around-the-clock activity during Southcentral’s warm, bright summers. If you think the lake takeoff is thrilling, wait until the landing! And that’s just the start of the fun. (Of course, more conventional plane rides are available; you could fly commercial to great fishing towns like Kenai, Cordova, Ketchikan, Homer, Juneau, Valdez and more.)

What do you want to catch? A fighting salmon? A plump trout? A vicious pike? All of the above? Your guides have you covered. How long do you want to cast? Half-day, full-day and multiday trips are available.

Want to go really big? Hook up with an outfit that will get you to a remote, fly-in lodge, where you can spend your days fishing until you can’t stop smiling, and your nights recovering like royalty in massive cabins or lodges. This is the ultimate in Alaska fishing experiences.

Fishing factoids

Overwhelmed by the options? Too excited to think clearly? Contact Fish and Game in person, on their Sport Fish Information Center phone line (907-267-2218) or online ( [email protected] or the Fishing section of adfg.alaska.gov ) for questions about fishing, licenses, regulations or anything else Anchorage or Alaska fishing related. Fish and Game’s We Fish AK and Go Fish AK sport fishing websites are especially helpful and informative for ambitious anglers and families looking for fishing fun.

Fish and Game now has a smartphone mobile app that provides information about licenses, permits, tags and regulations, allows fishermen to record their catches, and even has a sport fish species identifier. It’s available for free download at popular app stores.

The Sport Fish Information Center (333 Raspberry Road) provides up-to-date information on all the fisheries. You can even borrow fishing gear! There are also area fishing blogs and message boards, and friendly fishermen and retailers who are happy to share tips while you shop for tackle or gear.

Lures and lines, rods and reels — the choices are endless. But there’s one piece of equipment fishermen (residents 18 or older and nonresidents age 16 or older) must carry: a sport fishing license. Nonresidents have many sport fishing license options, from one day ($15) to a week ($45) to 14-day ($75) to annual ($100), and other options in between. If you are on a quest for a king, you will also need a king salmon tag, which runs an additional $15 for one day and up to $100 for a year, with 3-, 7- and 14-day stamps also available. For residents, there are numerous license options, including special rates for military, low income, senior citizens, disabled and elderly, so do your research. Savvy shoppers will note that these are great deals, as many license prices dropped from prior seasons following a dip in sales during the pandemic.

Note: You might hear about and see Alaskans dipnetting for salmon to fill their freezers. Yes, it can be an awesome and fruitful fishing experience, but only Alaska residents are legally allowed to do it.

Alaska sport fishing licenses are available at most sporting goods shops, and even grocery and convenience stores, and online , of course. It’s also a fisherman’s responsibility to know regulations, which are easily available in print in most places you can buy fishing licenses or gear, and online . Bosch said the key to figuring it out is to read the general regulations for each region (example: the Anchorage area), then look for site-specific regulations for streams (example: Ship Creek). In other words, know where you are fishing and what you are fishing for. Oh, and always be bear aware — clean your fish and dispose of fish waste responsibly.

If you’re plotting a chartered or guided fishing experience, whether by road, boat or plane, shop around. Most reputable charter companies have years of experience, tout their safety and fun, and are easy to study up on via their websites and social media. Find a perfect fishing fit by being specific about what you want to catch, how long you want to fish, and how much you want to spend.

One charter fishing bonus: It often comes with sightseeing in some of Alaska’s most incredible landscapes and wildlife, including water wonders like whales, orcas, porpoises and countless seabirds. Charter fishing out of Seward is practically overwhelming with the natural and wild wonders of Kenai Fjords National Park.

And don’t forget the bevy of fishing derbies that take place all summer in regions across Alaska. Catching a trophy fish in Alaska is memory making; neglecting to buy a derby ticket and then landing a potentially winning fish is bittersweet, if not heartbreaking.

Baumer recommended that visitors and residents alike spend time on the sport fishing section of Fish and Game’s website — adfg.alaska.gov — for updates on everything from hot fishing spots to places to borrow, rent or buy gear.

“Nothing really different or changed over the past seasons, but it is always good to remind people to check for most recent regulations and emergency orders, which are all posted online,” he said, noting the recent COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on tourism and fishing around Alaska, which began a big rebound in 2021. “From the old-time fisherman or someone going for the first time, it’s always good to refresh your memory on that.

“And we’re always here to help with questions, whether they’re planning their trip or there’s a specific detail they’ve got a question about,” he added. “And we’re ready to get people here to go fishing. You can come up and fish, be careful and, like always, do it safely.”

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Spring trolling can be a blast, even for ‘snobby’ fly fishers

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This story was originally published in April 2021.

I did not grow up fishing. My first serious introduction to fishing was fly fishing in my 20s, and I was hooked (pun intended).

I’ve since fly fished for salmon in Alaska, sea-run brown trout in Iceland, brook trout at Libby Camps, salmon at Grand Lake Stream and striped bass at York Beach. I now consider myself a bonafide snobby fly fisherman. So, when my better half, Travis, suggested we go trolling, I looked down my nose in disgust and replied, “Isn’t trolling for people who can’t fish? You just sit there and don’t really do anything, right?”

“It’s relaxing. Trust me, just try it,” he responded.

“Ok fine, but I’m using my fly rod,” I said.

Truth was, I didn’t own anything other than fly rods. I grabbed my 6-weight rod with a sinking line from L.L. Bean, and tied on a black ghost. Travis grabbed his lead core rod and we climbed into our 16-foot aluminum boat. Argos, our dog, jumped gracefully and enthusiastically into the bow. We recently purchased a home on Crystal Lake in Gray, and it was our first-time open water fishing it. It was April 5 and the ice had only recently melted. The water was as flat and smooth as a mirror.

Travis put the motor in gear but did not give it any throttle. We putted along at about 2 mph. I let some line off my reel and held the rod in my hands. Travis turned on the fish finder — a large number 12 lit up on the screen indicating we were only in 12 feet of water. We were so close to shore that I could see people watching tv inside their homes.

Fifteen minutes into our troll, I heard the clicking of my reel and felt the familiar tug on my line. The tip of the rod bent over and bounced. I started striping in line and Travis put the boat in neutral. The fish came in easily.

“It’s a brown,” Travis said as he scooped the fish into the net. The silvery fish was long and slender and speckled with large black spots.

“Our first open water fish from the lake! Let’s keep it for dinner. We can call this cove, ‘Brown Town,'” I said. Argos licked the fish in approval, and we continued our evening troll along shore.

As I let the line back out into the water, I noticed a juvenile eagle take flight from a nearby pine tree. A half dozen mallards also took flight, undoubtedly nervous about the presence of the eagle. A week prior, I had seen an eagle half-heartedly try to catch a duck. The mallard dove for long periods of time before finally flying off, away from the eagle.

“I’m on!” I shrieked as my rod bounced up and down.

Fifty feet behind the boat a fish leapt into the air. “Get the net!” I squealed.

“It’s not even close to the boat, calm down,” Travis replied, chuckling.

“It just leapt again! Feels decent sized!” I said excitedly. When the fish was close to the boat, Travis slipped her into the net. It was a healthy rainbow trout. I admired the iridescent rainbow strip down her otherwise silver side. After a quick photo and with a strong kick, she swam off with purpose into the icy water.

A neighbor on his lawn gave a thumbs up. His two pugs yapped incessantly at us.

“Let’s call that spot, ‘Pug House.'”Travis suggested. “Now do you like trolling?” He asked with a smirk.

“You’re right, it’s a good mix of relaxation and excitement and I still get to fight the fish on my fly rod,” I replied as I studied the sky, now shades of cherry and plum as the sun began to set. The cry of a distant loon reverberated over the low hum of the motor.

I began making a mental list of things to bring for our next evening troll: a more comfortable chair, rod holders, a speaker for music and snacks.

“I could get used to this, ‘not doing anything’ fishing,” I thought, as we putted our way home with fresh dinner.

More articles from the BDN

Christi holmes elliott, outdoors contributor.

Christi Holmes Elliott is a Registered Maine Guide and Appalachian Trail thru hiker. Christi is the founder of Maine Women Hunters and works as a design engineer. She lives in Gray. Follow her @christiholmes... More by Christi Holmes Elliott, Outdoors contributor