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Tag: pacific salmon fishing

  • Mission Lodge

    Mission Lodge

    Updated on

    Mission Lodge has distinguished itself among the handful of best Alaskan fishing lodges through exemplary service and outstanding personnel. Unless it’s a matter of safety, clients will never hear the word “no”. In terms of accommodating and exceeding clients expectations, Mission Lodge gets an A+.

    Lodge management is committed to providing clients an incomparable experience and the best fishing of their lives.

    Species: All 5 Pacific Salmon (king, sockeye, chum, pink, silver), trophy rainbow trout, arctic char, Dolly Varden, grayling, and pike

    Location: 300 miles SW of Anchorage, near Lake Aleknagik and Wood River, heart of Bristol Bay

    Season: June 14 – September 25, 2026 (transfer days: Tuesday and Friday)

    Capacity: 22 guests in 20 private rooms, managed by Sarah and Guy Fullhart

    Aircraft: Fleet of 3 DeHavilland Beavers, 40+ strategically placed boats, FAA #135 certified

    Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Alaska fly-out fishing!

    Destination Inquiry

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    Call us 860-434-9624

    Premier Fly-Out Fishing in Bristol Bay

    Mission Lodge is located 300 miles southwest of Anchorage, near the confluence of Lake Aleknagik and the Wood River, in the heart of the fabled trout and salmon waters of Bristol Bay; the Wood River/Tikchik Lakes, Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Iliamna and the Alaska Peninsula.

    Location. Location. Location. It applies to Alaskan fishing as well. Interested in trophy rainbows (over 10 pounds)? Mission Lodge will fly to the Morraine, Funnel Creek, and Kvichak Rivers, but they have their own secret streams closer by.

    Collin Winkelman's BIG Mission Lodge Trout

    World-Class Rivers and Secret Streams

    For a combination of all 5 species of Pacific Salmon and rainbows, Mission Lodge has leases on the best of the best: Nushagak, Togiak, Good News, and again, their own secrets you’ll be introduced to and never again utter the name, except to your best friend.

    Trophy rainbows, char, Dollies, Grayling, and pike: Mission Lodge has them in their backyard and accessible by boat, if you choose not to fly.

    Fleet of DeHavilland Beavers and Strategic Boat Placement

    Mission Lodge operates a fleet of 3 DeHavilland Beavers and has over 40 boats stashed within flying distance of the lodge. Many destinations you’ll fly in and meet your guide who will be waiting for you with a boat. Other destinations you will fly with your guide and will have a boat at your destination. Some destinations will be accessible only by foot, others will have a kayak waiting for you or your guide will bring a raft. All logistics are expertly orchestrated by the guides, pilots and staff.

    Nice Mission Lodge Char! Great Work Dorinda!

    Each evening management confers with guests to assess the kind of experience each client is interested in. The guides gather the necessary gear from Mission’s tackle room (which doubles as a great story telling hang out). The following morning after breakfast, guests board one of Mission’s floatplanes and fly to one of the many world-class rivers and streams in the Bristol Bay watershed.

    Three Mobile Camps for Extended Adventures

    In addition, Mission Lodge operates three mobile camps, which they move from river to river, according to productivity and time of year. Each camp is outfitted with large weatherproof tents, one or two guides and several boats with jet-motors. Guides are stationed at these camps for the entire season, and keep in radio contact with the lodge. They report daily on the weather and fishing conditions (they actually track the progression of migrating salmon) and with this information, the head guide determines the daily fishing plan. Mission Lodge has strategically placed these camps on such notable rivers as the Igushik, the Togiak, the Good News and the Nushagak, and many smaller rivers, which will remain unnamed.

    Cots and sleeping bags (with washable liners) are available at the mobile camps should clients elect to spend a night on the river. Overnighting at these camps is strictly an option. Most guests fly back to the main lodge each night.

    Mission Lodge, Bristol Bay King Salmon

    Seasonal Fishing Calendar

    Mission Lodge’s strategic location in the heart of the Bristol Bay region of southwest Alaska, places it within easy flying distance to the finest fishing waters in the state to fish for sockeyes, chums, kings, pinks or silver salmon, in addition to rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, arctic char, grayling and pike.

    If you’re looking for the greatest variety, we suggest the late June/July time period, when you can catch sockeyes, chums, pinks (even years) and king salmon in addition to the fresh water species. If you’re interested in silver and pink salmon (in addition to the fresh water species), we recommend August and the first two weeks of September. If your primary interest is rainbow trout and char, we recommend early June, the middle of the season (mid-July through August) and the month of September.

    Backup Options When Weather Prevents Flying

    If weather prevents the planes from flying (which happens an average of 3 days out of a four month season), jet boats docked at the lodge can transport guests to several rainbow trout, char and grayling streams that feed into Lake Aleknagik, as well as the well-known Agulawok and Agulapak Rivers, which are loaded with grayling and 2-8 pound rainbow trout and char. In addition, guests can travel by boat (with guide) to the McClung River or on foot to the Wood River, which has an excellent run of sockeye salmon, char, pink and silver salmon.

    Lodge Accommodations & Amenities

    The lodge itself is a modern facility, emphasizing comfort and taking full advantage of the surrounding Alaskan beauty. The well-traveled angler will appreciate the lodge’s dedication to service and commitment to detail.

    Mission Lodge Char caught by Mark Winkelman and Bill Sahlman

    Mission Lodge’s facilities are deluxe, even by Alaska standards. Twenty guestrooms allow each male guest to be accommodated in a private room with a shared bath and each couple to have a private room with a private bath. The lodge is spacious and includes a large lounge with big screen TV, dining room, private meeting room upstairs, sauna, and hot tub.

    A large deck surrounding the facility is just steps from the dock, float planes and boats. Large bay windows frame views of Lake Aleknagik and the beautiful mountains beyond. Alaska is a rugged, immense land of startling beauty – a great place to just step out of everyday pressures and relax. At the end of the day each guest retires to his or her own private room.

    Aircraft Safety – FAA #135 Certification

    Aircraft safety is the absolute top priority at Mission Lodge. Mission Lodge was the first fly out Lodge in Alaska to voluntarily obtain an FAA #135 airtaxi license, which requires stringent maintenance and certification. Now the #135 license is an FAA requirement for all flyout lodges.

    Fish Processing and Shipment

    Because of a short growing season, all native species must be released without exception. If you are interested in taking back some salmon, your guide will fillet or steak them, vacuum pack them in suitable portions and freeze them. Upon your departure your catch will be put into an airline-approved waxed fish box for the trip home.

    Another nice Mission Lodge Rainbow Trout; Relaxing in the Mission Lodge Hot Tube; Mission Lodge Rainbows are Fun!
    Mission Lodge Living Room; Sunset over Lake Aleknagik at Mission Lodge; Mission does Massages too.

    Mission Lodge 2026 Rates

    Rates valid June 14 – September 25, 2026. Transfer days: Tuesday and Friday. All rates include flights and fly-outs.

    Length of StayRate per person
    7 Nights / 6 Days$16,000
    4 Nights / 3 Days$11,000
    3 Nights / 2 Days$9,000

    Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change.

    Take the guess-work out.

    Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.

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    What’s Included

    • Transportation to and from Dillingham
    • Lodging in private rooms (shared or private bath depending on accommodation)
    • All meals
    • Use of Mission Lodge’s laundry facilities
    • Liquor and soft drinks
    • Tackle (fly and spinning rods and reels)
    • Neoprene waders
    • Flies and lures
    • Fly-outs
    • Guiding
    • Packing of fish for shipment

    What’s Not Included

    • Airfare to Dillingham
    • City of Aleknagik’s 9% tax
    • Fishing license ($70, subject to change)
    • King salmon tag ($45 additional when applicable)
    • Fuel service charge (up to $300 per person per week)
    • Gratuities (guideline: 15% – 20% of trip cost per person, at guest discretion)

    Reservations and Deposits: A 50% deposit, payable by check to Angler Adventures, is necessary to secure a reservation. Final payment is due 95 days prior to arrival. We offer trip cancellation insurance to all our customers.

    Client Testimonials

    “Mission Lodge is the finest lodge I’ve been to. The service and thoughtfulness of the lodge staff is unsurpassed.”

    Rob Garton, Sheboygan, Wisconsin (World traveler and President of American Orthodontics)

    “The fishing was as good as it gets. The Mission Lodge staff is totally dedicated to arranging whatever you have in mind. One day of grayling fishing (with dry flies and a light rod) was the best fishing experience I’ve had. Another day we fished what has to be the best silver salmon river in Alaska.”

    Jack Fallon, Chelmsford, Massachusetts (Writer and veteran of two Alaska fishing trips)

    “Accommodations, food, management, guides and equipment are all excellent. These people worked hard for us. The lodge is extremely well run, better than any other lodge I’ve been to. One day of chum salmon fishing was the best fishing I’ve ever had on a fly rod.”

    John Amiro, Sturbridge, Massachusetts (Veteran of seven Alaska fishing trips)

    “The Mission Lodge staff are among the finest people I’ve met in the fishing business. We fished for a week and only saw a float plane from one other lodge. They do a superb job.”

    Brig/General Louis Frank USMC, Nashua, New Hampshire (Veteran of nine Alaska fishing trips)

    Other References Available on Request.

  • Bristol Bay Lodge

    Bristol Bay Lodge

    Updated on

    Bristol Bay Lodge, Alaska

    Bristol Bay Lodge has spent nearly 50 seasons overlooking Lake Aleknagik in the heart of Wood-Tikchik State Park. From this hillside the crew can point floatplanes toward the Agulowak, Agulukpak, Kanektok, Goodnews, Togiak, and a dozen other rivers inside Wood-Tikchik and the neighboring Togiak National Wildlife Refuge.

    Guests still talk about the mix of polished hospitality and honest Alaska bush life: legendary DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes, veteran guides, jet boats cached on remote rivers, and overnight outpost camps that keep anglers on the water when the midnight sun refuses to set.

    Species: rainbows, grayling, Dolly Varden, pike, and all five Pacific salmon.

    Season: June through September with peak salmon variety in July and August.

    Weather: June warmth, bright July sun, and classic cool August nights around the lake.

    Location: Island base in Wood-Tikchik State Park with quick access to Togiak

    Bristol Bay Lodge overlooking Lake Aleknagik.

    Ready to build your Bristol Bay Lodge week?

    Destination Inquiry

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    Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

    Three hundred and fifty miles southwest of Anchorage, Bristol Bay Lodge sits in the middle of the finest freshwater fishery in North America. The Kanektok, Goodnews, Togiak, Agulowak, and Agulukpak rivers are as productive as ever, holding Chinook (king), sockeye, chum, pink, coho, Dolly Varden, arctic char, arctic grayling, rainbow trout, and northern pike throughout the season. The crew has guarded access for decades so guests can still fish legendary systems with little pressure.

    Bristol Bay offers variety in species and in methods. Dry flies, nymphs, streamers, and mice all get their moments. Guests who want the complete fly-out experience can string together sight-fishing on the Agulowak, a tundra-creek mouse session on the Agulukpak, and a swing day for kings on the Togiak–all in the same week.

    How the Program Flows

    Fly-out fishing at Bristol Bay Lodge.

    Each night guests sit with their guides to map the following day. Jet boats are staged on multiple rivers so flights are quick and anglers slide straight into prime water. On un-flyable days the Agulowak, a short boat ride from the dock, keeps rods bent with rainbows, grayling, char, Dolly Varden, and sockeye. Dry-fly days, nymphing setups, and streamer sessions are all on the table depending on weather and the run timing.

    Much of the fishing water is reachable only by floatplane, and Bristol Bay Lodge keeps its DeHavilland Beaver fleet in top condition. Three career pilots, many with more than three decades of Alaska airtime, handle the summer schedule and have flown for the lodge for years.

    Jet Boats, Guides & Staff

    Guides rotate between float trips, lake outlets, coastal rivers, and overnight camps so they always know where fish are staging. Jet boats positioned on different rivers ensure fast access once planes land. The team prides itself on warm hospitality, polished logistics, and a lifetime of stories about these fisheries.

    Outpost Camps & Overnight Adventures

    The lodge operates two private outpost camps on exclusive water. Only four guests overnight at a time, sleeping in Weatherport tents with real beds, heaters, and fresh linens. A cook’s tent turns out dinners while two guides stay on site to keep fishing rolling well into the midnight sun. Many guests call this overnight the high point of their trip.

    Life Around the Lodge

    Bristol Bay Lodge hosts up to 26 guests but limits fishing weeks to about 20 anglers to keep things personal. The lodge itself is stocked with a professional kitchen, dining room, expansive living room and bar wrapped around a see-through fireplace, a library, and a fly-tying bench loaded with local favorites. Decks overlooking Lake Aleknagik become gathering spots for appetizers, cocktails, and the weekly barbecue. A hot tub and sauna wait for tired muscles, and four cedar cabins give family groups private space.

    Family & Specialty Weeks

    Bristol Bay rainbow trout fishing.

    The lodge continues to welcome family sessions, small corporate groups, and multi-generation trips. Summer weeks often see three-generation parties learning to fish together, with rainbows and grayling on dry flies, sockeye by the millions, and Dolly Varden in full color. Special pricing is available for youth accompanying adult anglers during those designated family windows.

    Weather & Seasonal Highlights

    June brings long, bright days with temperatures in the 60s and early pushes of kings, sockeye, and trophy rainbows. Late July and August typically sit in the mid-50s to mid-60s with long twilight, big sockeye numbers, pink salmon on even years, and Dollies in top form. Expect rain at times–this is coastal Alaska–but the operation is built to keep guests fishing through changing fronts.

    Seasonal Fishing Calendar

    SpeciesPrime WindowNotes
    Rainbow troutJune through SeptemberSight-fish lake outlets, tundra creeks, and swing runs with mice, dries, and streamers.
    Arctic graylingJune through SeptemberClassic dry-fly days on the Agulowak and upper Wood-Tikchik tributaries.
    Dolly Varden & charJuly through AugustFollow salmon runs; prolific bead and leech fishing with kids and first-timers.
    King salmonMid June to early JulyFly-outs to the Kanektok, Goodnews, and Togiak with two-handed and heavy single-hand rods.
    Sockeye salmonLate June to mid JulyMillions of fish through Wood-Tikchik; meat trips and bead drifts light up.
    Chum & pink salmonJuly through AugustHigh-volume action, ideal for spey practice and fueling trout and char.
    Coho (silver) salmonMid August through SeptemberExplosive topwater and streamer eats on tidewater systems.
    Northern pikeJune through AugustWarm sloughs near Lake Aleknagik deliver classic weed-line sight fishing.

    Bristol Bay Lodge 2025 Rates & Booking

    PackageDetailsRate (USD)
    6 nights / 6 days guided fly fishingDaily fly-outs included$8,980 per angler
    5 nights / 5 days fishing home watersIncludes one fly-out day$7,980 per angler

    Contact us for 2026 availability, family-week pricing, or custom itineraries.

    Take the guess-work out.

    Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.

    Call us 860-434-9624
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    Included

    • All meals, lodging, and nightly appetizers at Bristol Bay Lodge.
    • Fully guided daily fishing (two anglers per guide) with fly-outs or jet-boat access as scheduled.
    • Transportation between Iliamna airport and the lodge.
    • Use of lodge waders, boots, rods, reels, and most terminal gear.
    • Professional vacuum sealing and boxing for salmon you choose to keep.

    Not Included

    • Commercial airfare to Anchorage, charter arrangements to Iliamna, or Anchorage hotel stays.
    • Terminal tackle you wish to keep (flies, lures, leaders, specialty lines).
    • Alaska fishing license and king stamp.
    • Alcoholic beverages and gratuities for guides, pilots, and staff.
    • Optional trip insurance (strongly recommended).

    Deposits & Balance: A 50% deposit confirms space; reservations made more than a year out can be held with $1,000 per person until the standard deposit is due. Balances are payable on arrival by cash, traveler’s checks, or personal check (no credit cards). Because the operating season is short, deposits are non-refundable, but dates can shift within the same year on a space-available basis. Protect your investment with travel insurance; the lodge recommends Squaremouth Travel (800-240-0369).

    Bristol Bay Lodge, for nearly 50 years, has helped define Alaska wilderness fishing. Bristol Bay Lodge overlooks Lake Aleknagik and the surrounding mountains. The lodge is strategically situated in the heart of America’s largest state park: The Wood – TikChik Park, as well as the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, giving Bristol Bay Lodge the advantage of being utterly surrounded by pristine wilderness. The lodge’s proximity to the watersheds within Wood-TikChik Park and Togiak National Wildlife Refuge means less travel time and more time catching fish.

    Bristol Bay Lodge has been in operation since 1972. Over that time the lodge has worked hard to establish and keep access to the best fishing in the parks. Briston Bay offers diversity of species and fishing methods. Bristol Bay Lodge is the best place for anglers looking for the complete Alaska fly-out experience.

    Three hundred and fifty miles southwest of Anchorage lies Bristol Bay and its vast watershed, home of the finest freshwater sport fishing in North America. In the heart of the watershed lies Wood-TikChik State Park, containing 14 major lakes and their connecting river systems. Guests at Bristol Bay have access to this entire pristine Alaskan fishery. The Kanektok, Goodnews, and Togiak rivers are among the most productive in Alaska. Chinook (king) salmon, sockeye (red) salmon, chum salmon, pink (humpy) salmon, coho or silver salmon, Dolly Varden, arctic char, arctic grayling, rainbow trout and northern pike are all present in vast numbers at various stages of the Alaskan fishing season.

    Each night at Bristol Bay Lodge, guests get together with their guides to schedule the following day’s fishing. Bristol Bay Lodge guests also have the opportunity to fish two of Alaska’s most renowned rivers, the Agulowak and the Agulukpak, inside Wood-TikChik Park. These rivers provide productive fishing for

    spotted Alaskan rainbows, grayling, char, and Dolly Varden all summer long. They are also host to the single largest sockeye salmon run anywhere in the world. On average, several million fish return to the Wood-TikChik lakes system and surrounding watershed every year. Bristol Bay Lodge guests generally begin catching the first sockeye around the 4th of July. Dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer fishing are all productive techniques at different times during the summer.

    Additionally, just a short boat ride from the Bristol Bay Lodge’s front door is the world-famous Agulowak River, celebrated for its productive Alaskan rainbow trout fishing as well as its populations of grayling, char, Dolly Varden and sockeye salmon. Being able to access such productive fishing by boat is also a safeguard against the inevitable days of un-flyable weather, during which many other lodges cannot fish.

    Much of Alaska’s best fishing water is accessible only by floatplane. Bristol Bay Lodge flies guests to their fishing destination in legendary DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes. These airplanes are comfortable and reliable, earning the nickname “workhorses of the North.” Each aircraft is in excellent condition and all are well maintained throughout the entire season.

    Bristol Bay Lodge employs three pilots through the summer. Each pilot has more than three decades experience flying in Alaska and some have flown for Bristol Bay Lodge for more than 16 years. Jet boats are kept on many different rivers during the season for easy access to the most productive fishing waters. The boats ensure prompt, easy and comfortable access to the prime fishing grounds.

    Bristol Bay Lodge’s two outpost camps give it another advantage that no other Alaskan fishing lodges can offer. Bristol Bay is unique in providing the opportunity for guests to enjoy two intimate, comfortable (recently upgraded) outpost camps situated on private water (an extremely rare commodity in Alaska). A maximum of four guests overnight along side these private streams, affording the opportunity to fish all night under the midnight sun or just enjoy sitting around the campfire in the middle of a vast Alaskan wilderness. Nevertheless, a full staff is always on hand. Both camps have fixed beds with fresh linens warm full sized, fleece-lined sleeping bags, heaters, running water, and full service lavatory. Each camp also has three guest tents, accommodating two fishermen per tent, as well as a cook’s tent where breakfasts and dinners are served. The camps are staffed full time by two experienced guides and a camp chef to take care of all of your needs. For many guests, this overnight experience is often the highlight of an otherwise unforgettable Alaskan fishing trip.

    The main lodge at Bristol Bay accommodates up to 26 guests per week. The well-appointed facility offers casually elegant wilderness living filled with creature comforts and an atmosphere of camaraderie. The lodge is equipped professional kitchen, the dining room, a large living room and bar, a library and a huge fly tying bench laden with everything one needs to tie quality flies suited to the surrounding rivers.

    The famous see-through fireplace is fronted by a panoramic view of Lake Aleknagik. In warm weather the lodge’s decks are the favorite gathering places for appetizers, cocktails and weekly barbecues. The hot tub and sauna get heavy use after fishing. Set around the lodge, but private in every regard, are four cedar cabins, often used for small groups or families.

    Our Services are Free!

    Bristol Bay Lodge 2020 Rates

    The 2020weekly rate at Bristol Bay Lodge is $10,850 total, per person per week, including private charter.

    Included: The price includes all meals, lodging based on double occupancy, fully guided daily fishing excursions(one guide per two anglers), R/T airfare Anchorage/Dillingham; all fly-outs; round-trip transportation between Dillingham (Alaskan port from which we transport guests to the lodge) and the lodge, fishing license and King Stamp, all waders, boots, rods and reels, all necessary lines and lures, professional vacuum sealing and preparation of salmon for shipping home, airline approved wet-lock fish box, Alaskan visitor’s fishing license.

    Not Included: The price does not include transportation to/from Anchorage to/from home city, accommodation in Anchorage, terminal tackle — flies, lures, lines, etc. (these are available for purchase in our tackle shop), alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

    *An additional fuel surcharge may apply.

    EACH MONDAY THE LODGE TAKES 4 TO 5 GUESTS. THE RATES ARE THE SAME AS THE PREVIOUS SATURDAY.

    FAMILY & SPECIAL WEEKS:
    Family Week – Contact us for dates
    We used to call this Father/Son Week but had requests for mothers, daughters, son-in-law’s, cousins, nephews and grandchildren too!

    WEATHER: June temperatures are usually warm, 60-70 degrees, and Bristol Bay experiences lengthy days . . . almost 20 hours of daylight.

    FISHING: The lodge enjoys excellent fishing for all resident species at this time. Some of the lodge’s best catches of arctic char, dolly varden, rainbow trout, lake trout, northern pike and arctic grayling occur in June. You’ll also be fishing for king salmon, chum salmon, and will have a good chance at sockeyes.

    Midsummer Family Week – Contact us for dates

    Bristol Bay has an increase in demand for family weeks at different times of the season with children so busy with other summer activities. The lodge gets many three-generation parties. Midsummer offers warm weather and lots of fish. Many catch rainbows and grayling on dry flies. The sockeye salmon are in by the millions and the dolly varden run is in high gear — 50 dollies a day is not uncommon. This is a great time to bring the family and introduce them to fly fishing or further their experience.

    PRICE: The ‘head/heads of the house’ or adults fish at our regular rate of $10,850 and the “children” for 50% or $5,425. These rates apply for up to 2 parents and 4 children per family group.

    WEATHER: Late July and early August temperatures are normally between 55 and 65 degrees, and the days are still lengthy for long fishing hours. While generally sunny, rain is a definite possibility at this time of year.

    FISHING: All resident species are available, with excellent dry-fly fishing for rainbow trout and grayling. The sockeye and pink salmon are running, as are the sea-run Dolly Varden. There is also a chance to catch an early silver salmon.

  • Alaska West Sportfishing

    Alaska West Sportfishing

    Alaska West Sportfishing

    One of the most exclusive, remote, and jaw-dropping angling experiences in the world.

    Updated on

    Alaska West stands out as one of Alaska’s premier camps, and in a state that abounds with world class fishing camps, that’s saying a lot. The camp sits on the Kanektok River which runs 110 miles from Kagati Lake to the Bering Sea. One of the Kanektok’s true strengths as a fishery is its relatively small size. This is a very “wader friendly” river, and perhaps one Alaska’s best to target king salmon on a fly rod. Many larger rivers require a boat and very heavy gear to target kings. Flyfishing from bank, beach or gravel bar for huge king salmon is a world-class fishing experience that few other lodges can offer.

    This is a true wilderness experience, yet the Alaska West camp provides a remarkable level of comfort, with heated tents, hot showers, and hearty meals served in a dedicated dining tent. It’s the perfect basecamp for targeting all five species of Pacific salmon, along with a host of resident species, in a remote and wild setting.

    Species: King, Coho, Sockeye, Pink & Chum Salmon, Leopard Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Grayling

    Season: June through August

    An unforgettable wilderness fishing adventure awaits!

    Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about your Alaska West adventure!

    Destination Inquiry

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    Call us 860-434-9624

    The Kanektok River Fishery

    The Kanektok is a premier Alaskan fishing destination for a reason. Its unique character, size, and consistent runs of fish make it one of the most productive and diverse rivers in the state. Anglers can fish effectively from the boat or by wading, and the river’s structure offers endless opportunities for all techniques.

    All five Pacific Salmon species – including king, pink, chum, silver, and sockeye – surge past the Alaska West campsight every summer in huge numbers. Since the camp is less than four miles from the river mouth, these fish are fresh from the sea, bright, well-fed, and tireless fighters. To be sure, many will be very thankful that the camp loans out tackle to replace broken rods; these fish won’t come in easily. Fishermen are taken out in pairs with a guide on an 18 foot, jet-powered skiff each morning. The angler should not be surprised at landing over twenty fish in a day and will get used to having sore arms at dinnertime.

    The “Alaska West” Camp & Experience

    Forget everything you think you know about “tent camps.” Alaska West redefines wilderness comfort. Guests stay in heated, carpeted, and well-lit double-occupancy tents that stand up to any weather. A separate, dedicated shower building provides on-demand hot water, and a drying tent ensures your gear is ready for the next day’s adventure.

    The heart of the camp is the large dining tent, where guests gather for hearty, family-style meals prepared by a professional chef. It’s the perfect place to share stories, tie flies, and relax after a long day on the water. The camp’s location provides easy access to all sections of the river, minimizing travel time and maximizing fishing time.

    A Typical Day & The Fishing Program

    Fishing starts as soon as the boat lands and even the weariest of the maximum eighteen guests will spring for his rod. From this moment on, fishing ceases only briefly for eating and sleeping. Anglers rise early to gobble a quick breakfast, pack a lunch, and pass through the heated wader tent. The first fish are hooked before 8:00am. The rest of the day is spent in pairs, exploring miles of pristine water on small skiffs with jet-powered outboards and one shared guide. These guides have to be truly committed to work in such an isolated spot and are happiest when they are able to show the guest exactly how much the Kanektok has to offer, including a streamside lunch of your freshly caught fish. All flies and leaders are provided to guests at no charge.

    Boats arrive back in camp around 6:00pm with just enough time for fishermen to freshen up in the heated showers and commune in the dining tent. After dinner the true enthusiast has hours of daylight left to work the river on foot. When at last his arm is exhausted, the angler will return to his heated tent with wooden floor, and screened front door. Inside there are two cots with full bedding, a space heater, lamp, plenty of room for standing and for hanging damp equipment, and, thankfully, a mosquito coil. These are simple accommodations but few wakeful hours will be spent within them. The most enthusiastic angler will be put to sleep soundly by these Kanektok salmon.

    World-Class Multi-Species Fishing

    The Kanektok is a fish-producing factory. The season kicks off with the mighty King Salmon (Chinook), the largest and most powerful of the salmon, running from mid-June to mid-July. As the kings taper off, the river fills with Chum (“Tiger”), Sockeye, and Pink Salmon, creating a target-rich environment for anglers.

    From late July through the end of the season, the Silver Salmon (Coho) arrive. These acrobatic and aggressive fish are a favorite on the fly, known for explosive takes and cartwheeling fights. Throughout it all, the river’s resident populations of beautifully spotted “Leopard” Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Grayling are there to be caught, growing fat on the eggs and flesh from the salmon spawn.

    Alask West Sportfishing 2025 Rates

    A 7-night / 6-day trip at Alaska West on the Kanektok River is $7,750.

    Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change. Contact us for seasonal promos.

    Take the guess-work out.

    Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.

    Call us 860-434-9624
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    Rates Include: 7 nights lodging, 6 days guided fishing, All meals, Fly and conventional tackle, Round-trip air transportation between Quinhagak and the lodge.

    Not Included: Round-trip air transportation to Quinhagak (QAH), AK, Alaska fishing license, Flies, Gratuities, Alcohol.

    Reservations and Deposit: To confirm reservations, a 50% deposit is required within ten days of booking. The balance is due 95 days prior to scheduled arrival at the lodge.

    Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about your Alaska West adventure!

    Destination Inquiry

    or

    Call us 860-434-9624

    Getting There

    The Alaska West Camp is not easy to access. Plan on at least a day and a half of travel to get there. Even from Anchorage, two more single-prop flights, connecting in Bethel, must be taken before arriving at the mouth of the Kanektok. The last leg of the trip is over water, motoring up river to the campsite several miles inland.

    This is wilderness fishing at its best; tracking across such a formidable expanse is all part of the experience. Keep in mind that Alaska West owes its abundance of salmon to its location on the extreme outskirts of civilization. Upstream from the camp are miles of flat, uninhabitable scrub, punctuated by thousands of glacial ponds. Dense, weathered thicket extends downstream and dissolves into the Bering Sea.

    Photography by Peter Viau, Tosh Brown, Abe Blair, Kyle Shea and Kara Knight.
  • Russia

    Russia

    Ponoi River on Russia’s Kola Peninsula

    The incredible Ponoi River on Russia’s Kola Peninsula may be the world’s most prolific Atlantic salmon river. During recent years, anglers landed an average of just under 40 salmon per rod per 6-day week for the entire 16-week season! The Ponoi River Company is the longest operating and most reliable outfitter on the Kola. Operating from the centrally located Ryabaga Camp site, anglers access over 50 miles of the Ponoi and an additional 50 miles of tributaries by jet outboard river boats or fly-outs in 2 twin jet helicopters. While known predominantly for fantastic numbers of small salmon (7-10 pounds), one year the Ponoi produced 1411 fish over 10 pounds including two over the 30-pound mark! Space is extremely limited for the season and early reservations are advised.

     

    Kola Lodge on Russia’s Kola River

    Kola Lodge gives serious Altantic Salmon fishermen the rare opportunity for trophy Atlantic salmon, which can exceed 40 – 45 pounds. On most other trophy salmon rivers, targeting big fish equates to catching few fish. However, the Kola offers not only chances for big fish but impressive daily catches as well.

    Guests at the Lodge fish both the Kola and it’s beautiful tributary, the Kitza River. Each of a maximum of 16 anglers (14 in July) fishes with his own boat and guide daily with accommodations in private cabins.

     

    Ouzel Outfitters on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula

    The Wild Salmon Center has gotten all the press, but Ouzel Expeditions pioneered Kamchatka and has outfitted the peninsula since 1991. Owner, Paul Allred concentrates on four rivers and picks the one that’s fishing the best the day you arrive!

    Kamchatka has been decribed as, “like Alaska used to be – but better”.   This 750 mile long peninsula boasts hundreds of miles of pristine, wilderness rivers, teeming with 6 species of Pacific salmon, arctic char and kunja (Siberian) char, and perhaps the best rainbow trout fishing on the planet.

    Veteran Alaksan outfitters, Paul & Sharon Allred, owners of Ouzel Expeditions , were the first Americans to explore and outfit the Kamchatka and are entering their 15th season providing top quality float trip expeditions on the peninsula.  For anglers looking for the ultimate wilderness experience and the opportunity for catch 30 + inch wild rainbow trout, we recommend a float trip with Ouzel Expeditions .

     

  • British Columbia

    British Columbia

    Excellent steelhead fishing has made British Columbia the go-to destination for targeting wild trophy steelhead. Fly anglers travel from all over the world to visit British Columbia to fish the famous summer steelhead runs and maybe land a trophy-sized 30-pounder. Known for long runs and multiple jumps, these large sea-run Rainbows are aggressive, extremely strong, and don’t quit a fight easily. Because these British Columbia steelies live up to their reputation, most lodges average 95% of their guests returning each year. Our fishing operations in British Columbia offer excellent steelhead fishing on the Dean and a truly unique luxury experience in the wilderness of western Canada. The Steelhead runs have continued to get better, with higher numbers of “big fish” being hooked due to a strictly enforced catch and release only policy throughout the season. British Columbia Rivers also provide excellent fishing for Pacific Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Cutthroats, and a variety of other fish.

    L-R: Dean River Steelhead being released, Nice British Columbia Steelhead; The Dean River.

    BC West

    BC West Bright SteelieBC West is located on one of British Columbia’s premier steelhead rivers, the Dean River. The Dean’ steelhead are widely acknowledged as the hottest sea-run rainbow trout in the world, and the Dean commands a high position on the “must fish life list” of nearly every traveling flyrodder. BC West is the premier lodge, located on the Lower Dean just below the famous Dean River Canyon and offers anglers their best opportunity to challenge these supercharged salmonids at their peak condition, chrome bright and fresh from the salt. Big bruiser chinook salmon in June and early July and acrobatic coho salmon in late August offer spicy alternatives should you tire of chasing steelies!

    Moose Lake Lodge

    Nice Upper Dean River RainbowMoose Lake Lodge located 300 miles North of Vancouver in the Upper Black Water/Upper Dean wilderness and offers bountiful rainbow trout fishing on nearby lakes and rivers. Moose Lake also off optional fly-outs to coastal waters or the option of the Dean River Outpost Camp on the Upper River providing a variety of fishing opportunities for not just rainbows and steelhead, but Pacific Salmon, Cutthroat, Dollies, Kokanee and Whitefish.

  • Alaska

    Alaska


    Alaska is synonymous with catching big fish, and lots of fish, in an environment that is wild, rugged and plentiful, like few left on earth. In a week it is possible to catch 10 kinds of the world’s greatest game fish, a different species every day. Or, you may choose to go with only one goal; catching the biggest Rainbow of your life. Everything is possible.

    In the Bristol Bay watershed, where the lodges we represent are located, the season extends from mid-June to the end of September. The calendar below explains when each species can be caught. Many fisherman plan Alaska trips around one or more species of Salmon, realizing that Trout, Char, Dolly Varden, Pike, and Grayling are available season long.

    If you want to pursue Rainbows with a dry fly, focus on June and July. But, if it’s a trophy Rainbow you’re after, they’ll be several pounds heavier in August and September.

    Most Alaskan outfitters operate on a weekly schedule, and range in price from $5,000 to $9,000 for 7-nights / 6-days fishing. The difference is largely a matter of accommodations and if the lodge provides daily fly-outs. Other price factors include: the number of boats and airplanes being utilized; how remote the location is; the ratio of customers to staff; fishermen to guides; and whether, tackle, transfers, licenses, and drinks are included.

    Fly-out lodges provide tremendous mobility, allowing you to pick prime fishing areas within a 150 mile radius of camp, and by flying to different locations every day, you get to see the vast, spectacular scenery and wildlife Alaska is famous for.

    Bristol Bay Area Fishing Calendar
    SpeciesAvailable
    Rainbow Trout (2 – 10 lbs)June Thru September
    Dolly Varden (2 – 10 lbs)
    Arctic Char (2 – 10 lbs)
    Arctic Grayling (1 – 3 lbs)
    Northern Pike (5 – 10 lbs)
    King Salmon
    Average Size 20 – 30 lbs
    Trophy Size 50 lbs    		Late June thru July
    Sockeye Salmon
    Average Size 6 – 8 lbs
    Trophy Size 12 lbs    		Late June thru July
    Chum Salmon
    Average Size 7 – 10 lbs
    Trophy Size 15 lbs    		July
    Pink Salmon
    Average Size 3 – 4 lbs
    Trophy Size 7 lbs    		August
    Silver Salmon
    Average Size 8 – 12 lbs
    Trophy Size 18 lbs    		August thru Early September

    Fly Out Lodges

    Mission Lodge

    Selecting from the lodges we represent in Alaska is a choice of better and best. Mission Lodge is clearly in the category of best. Management, accommodations, food, aircraft, pilots, and guides all get an A+. You can catch Rainbows to 8 lbs on the Agulawok without having to fly out, but, if you want to fly an hour to the Kvichak or the Moraine for a monster, they’ll do it. Through lease and permit, they’ve amassed prime fishing locations second to none. You won’t have time to fish all of the river camps they’ve equipped with guides and jet boats. Their equipment is safe, top notch, and meticulously maintained. The daily orchestration of putting you in the appropriate aircraft to fish the best river, for what you want to catch, is executed with military precision. You’ll be treated with the respect of a client and the care of a friend. You pay once and never reach into your wallet again (except for the gratuities, which you’ll be anxious to pay). You need a raincoat and clothes, otherwise you’ll be outfitted with top of the line fly or spinning rods & reels, waders, flies and lures.

    Every piece of the puzzle fits perfectly in place. As all consummate professionals, Mission Lodge Staff make it look easy! You get to relax, joke, enjoy yourself, and catch more, different, and bigger fish than you’ve ever caught before. Mission Lodge has the highest rebooking rate of any lodge we work with and our clients come back feeling like they got what they paid for and more. Click here for rates and more information on Mission Lodge.

    Enchanted Lake Lodge

    Enchanted Lake Lodge is located on 54 private acres within beautiful Katmai National Park. The lodge is perched high on a knoll overlooking Lake Nonvianuk and Enchanted Lake and offers breath-taking views in every direction. With the Kulik and Alagnak Rivers reachable by boat, and the Moraine, Funnel, Battle and American Creeks, as well as the Brooks, Big Ku, and Kvichak Rivers a short flight away, Enchanted Lake Lodge is perfectly situated for trophy Rainbow Trout. And that’s what they do!

    If you’re looking to pursue big Rainbows with a fly rod, this is the lodge for you. Early season dry fishing is followed by salmon fry on the surface, and both provide exciting sight fishing opportunities. Once the Salmon drop their eggs in July, fishing egg patterns turns into high gear. The guides are focused on one thing, catching you big Rainbows.

    Guests are awakened each morning with hot coffee, tea or chocolate and greeted at the airplane dock each evening with their favorite beverage. Sauna, cocktails and hor de’ouerves are available before dinner. There is a complimentary bar.

    You’ll be flown in pristine DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes and the pilot/guides remain with the guests all day. Jet boats are stationed on productive rivers.

    Each of the eight guest cabins has two beds, carpeting, full bath, hot water, spectacular views and accommodates two guests. Capacity is 12 anglers. Click here for rates and more information on Enchanted Lake Lodge.

    Bristol Bay Lodge

    Most acclaimed of Alaskan lodges, Bristol Bay Lodge represents the classic Alaskan experience. Nestled around Bristol Bay Lodge are cozy cedar cabins, set among tall fir trees. All overlook majestic Lake Aleknagik, in the Wood River, Tikchik Lakes State Park. The ruggedly beautiful area is visited by fewer than 1,000 sport fishermen each year. The Wood, Nushagak, and Togiak Rivers abound in prime fish habitat.

    Waiting serenely dockside are three immaculately maintained DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes. Adjacent to the floatplanes, rest the fleet of jet boats, patiently nodding on Aleknagik’s morning ripples, ready to explore the lake and its diverse rivers. The Agulowak River, a few minutes by boat from the lodge, offers wonderful fly fishing for Rainbows, Grayling, Dolly Varden, and Char.

    Guests can also stay at heated overnight tent camps complete with cots, foam pads, sleeping bags, linens, a cook and two guides. These legendary Outpost Camps, famous for the extraordinary fishing they provide, offer the chance to fish all day and under the midnight sun, then sit around the campfire and truly relax.

    The stylish, well-appointed lodge, built in 1972 by Ron and Maggie McMillan is now run by the long time manager Steve Laurent. There are single, double and triple sleeping rooms in the lodge and in out-cabins for up to 6. Each unit has a private bath. The cabins have living rooms and a fireplace. Click here for rates and more information on Briston Bay Lodge.

    Crystal Creek Lodge

    Crystal Creek was originally located in the famed Wood-Tikchik area on Lake Nunavaugaluk, the southernmost Lake in the Wood River drainage. Built in the late 80’s by Terry Ebberly and veteran guide / bush pilot, Dan Michels, the lodge first opened in 1988. Dan bought out Terry a few years later and while the operation flourished and became one of Alaska’s premier fly out lodges, Dan was drawn by the by the big rainbows to the east on the Alaskan Peninsula, near the limits of their 120 mile flyout radius. In 2005, Dan found exactly what he was looking for and purchased a beautiful log & river rock lodge overlooking the Naknek River, one of Alaska’s premier trophy rainbow fisheries. By the 2006 season, Crystal Creek had moved to the new facility on the Naknek. The new location gave the lodge easy access to massive runs of all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, as well as the bounty of trophy Rainbow waters in the Katmai and Iliamna regions.

    Crystal Creek is among the most luxurious lodges in Alaska. The massive 7,500 square foot log and river rock lodge and adjacent guest cabin provide spacious and tastefully appointed accommodations for up to 14 anglers. Meals and wine selections are gourmet, and staff and service top shelf. And with Dan’s 30 some years experience in the Alaska sportfishing business, Crystal Creek’s fishing program is second to none. Besides daily flyout fishing in the lodge’s fleet of impeccably maintained DeHavilland Beavers (2 on floats, 1 on tundra tires), the Salmon and Rainbow fishing can be spectacular within minutes of the lodge. The lodge is located very close to the Naknek Rapids, which stack up Salmon, food and monster Rainbows and is one of the best fishing areas on the river. Further, Crystal Creek also operates the incredible Yantarni Outpost Camp in the complete wilderness area of the southeast peninsula, which provides small stream, high volume Salmon fishing unmatched anywhere. Click here for rates and more information on Crystal Creek Lodge.

    Royal Coachman Lodge

    Royal Coachman Lodge is uniquely situated on the banks of the Nuyakuk River in the Wood-Tikchik State Park region of Bristol Bay, Alaska. Just downstream of the outlet to Tikchik Lake, its location offers remoteness, solitude and great local fishing on the Nuyakuk River for the rare non-fly out day or after hours fishing. The lodge has no neighbors and no other boats, cars or planes passing by the lodge. Nowhere else on earth will you find such a wide variety of sportfish. The sheer numbers of fish that this fishery supports is mind boggling. The area around Royal Coachman Lodge contains all five species of Pacific Salmon: Kings, Silvers, Sockeye, Chum and Pinks, along with seven species of freshwater gamefish, Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic Char, Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Sheefish!

    Royal Coachman’s veteran guides sit with guests each evening, around the fire or tying bench, planning the details of the next day’s outing according to each client’s preference. The lodge utilizes two DeHavilland Beavers on floats. Royal Coachman’s guides have fished around the world and make this their career. They can help the beginner learn how to cast, or show the experienced fly fishermen how to reach a tricky undercut bank. They will give you as much or as little assistance as you desire.

    With two exclusive permits in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, one private trophy trout fishery permit, permits to fish Katmai National Park and Wood Tikchik State Park, three department of natural resources permits, and nearly 20 boats cached throughout the best fishing locations, Royal Coachman has honed it’s competitive edge. Guests fish a variety of waters from very small streams to large rivers, lakes and the throughfares that connect them. By maintaining boats with jet units scattered throughout the region, and because of the variety of waters, private leases, and exclusive use permits held by Royal Coachman, you get the best fishing the region has too offer every day! These fishing destinations are remote and most of the time you’ll be the only anglers there. Whether you’re an expert fly fisherman or a beginning spin caster, you will find the angling adventure that you are looking for. And, you’ll catch a lot of big fish. Click here for rates and more information on Royal Coachman Lodge.

    Tent Camps and Float Trips

    If you prefer a tent camp or float trip over a fly out lodge, you want to be sure you select a good river as your base of operations. The Kanektok is the best single river we’ve fished in Alaska. The Kanektok has phenomenal runs of Pacific salmon, plus strikingly colorful “Leopard” Rainbows, sea run Dolly Varden, Char and Grayling. The river is small by Alaskan standards and wadeable. There is no better river to fly fish for Kings (King Salmon 20-50 pounds). Chum fishing is outrageous and the Silver Salmon fishing will blow you away. One week Alaska West caught 1822 Silvers, an average of 22 per rod per day and many of them were taken on dry flies!

    Alaska West 

    Alaska West is located 5.5 miles from the mouth of the Kanektok River, where it empties into the Bering Sea, so the Salmon are consistently fresh and dime bright. Alaska West is a “tent lodge” made up of a combination of permanent and semi-permanent structures providing unbelievable comfort in the middle of the Alaskan Wilderness. The ‘tent’ part comes from heavy vinyl covers that are removed during the winter. Everything else is permanent – wooden floors, heaters, electrical system, water system, including the permanent shower house.

    Alaska West puts anglers in the middle of the best fishing on the Kanektok for all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, “Leopard” Rainbow Trout, Char and Grayling. The Kanektok is one the best rivers in Alaska to target King Salmon of the fly, has amazing Chum and Sliver Salmon fishing. Click here for rates and more information on Alaska West.

    Dave Duncan & Sons

    Dave Duncan & Sons has developed an outstanding reputation after two generations of outfitting on the Kanektok River. From the outset, the Duncan’s knew the fishing was so good they called her “The Chosen River” to try and keep it a secret. Now, the Duncan’s operate two base camps and do a full river float on the Kanektok. While, both camps offer opportunities for all species, the Lower Base Camp is more focused on dime-bright salmon fresh from the salt and the Upper Base Camp is more focused on trophy “Leopard” Rainbows, particularly fun with a mouse imitation. Dave Duncan and Sons also do a 90-mile float trip that starts at the headwaters of the Kanektok and ends at the Bering Sea. The float is great way to experience the variety of fishing the Kanektok offers, as well the changes in the river’s personality as it negotiates its way from Kagati Lake to the Bering Sea. Both base camps and the 90-mile float provide anglers with a true Alaskan adventure on some of the best fishing water in Alaska. Click here for rates and more information on Dave Duncan and Sons.