Fishing Opportunities in Alaska
Alaska is a state with remarkable beauty and seclusion for those who want it, and it offers any fisherman an opportunity to hook up a personal record catch. Of the many lodges and destinations to visit and stay in Alaska, the one thing most have in common is great fishing.
Salmon is a huge favorite in Alaska, as is halibut, trout, pike, and grayling. While catching a fish is the ultimate goal of the Alaskan fishing trip, if you don’t already live there then you have to get there first. Here are some things to consider when choosing Alaska as a destination for a fishing trip.
Budgeting for the Trip
This is often where lodge and destination choices are narrowed down and there are many different choices at every level. Often, the only things that differ between lodges in the same geographical area are amenities and fishing packages. All inclusive packages, where everything including food and guided fishing trips are in the total price, may be more expensive up front but can eliminate many surprises in the end.
Instead of choosing an expensive trip and trying to whittle it down to the basics, look at what the pocketbook will allow and start from there. Also, most packages will not include any needed permits or licensing that is required for fishing in Alaska.
The Type of Fishing Desired
Some fishing lodges specialize in guided trips and fly-outs for catching particular fish. Read each lodge’s fishing information for the types they specialize in. Some fishing lodges specialize in all types of salmon fishing (Chinook, Sockeye, Coho, Pink, or Chum) while others focus on trout or halibut. Also think about how the catch should be caught. A person who prefers saltwater excursions may not enjoy a fly fishing lodge as much. Some examples of the types of fishing are fly fishing, freshwater or deep sea ocean saltwater fishing.
Time of Travel May Determine the Fish
Off-season trips may yield a discount in the overall package price, but can also limit or expand the types of fish that can be caught. Depending on what is in season will determine what the catch will be. Some months may be excellent for King Salmon while other months may be great for catching Northern Pike or Halibut. Also, different parts of the state will have different fish runs at different times of the year. Check each lodge’s fishing chart for details.
Fishing Tackle Necessities and Catch Take Home Methods
Since traveling to Alaska may be an excursion all by itself, packing an arsenal of favorite fishing gear may not be advisable, or even doable. Check to see if some or all fishing tackle and rigging will be offered to the guests, and if things like waders will be included in a package.
Think about what you would like to do with your fish. If catch and release is the goal then no other equipment or arrangements need to be made. But if you want to bring it home, many lodges offer cleaning, freezing or smoking the fish to be taken home with you or shipped directly to you.