Alaska Fly Fishing Trip: Preparing For This Year’s Fulfilling Fly Fishing Trip In Alaska

August 11th, 2008 Posted in Fly Fishing For Bass

Trying to plan an Alaska fly fishing trip? Wondering which lodge to book? Trying to decide when to go? Figuring out what to pack? For the answers to these questions and more, read on to learn how to plan a fantastic Alaskan fly fishing trip.

Obtaining a Fishing License

While most lodges or tour companies will arrange to obtain your fishing license for you, you can also order them online right from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. They offer a basic fishing license for out-of-state residents, as well as an additional stamp to go after King Salmon.

When to Go

The peak season for an Alaska fly fishing vacation is from June to September. However, the exact time you go will largely depend on the kind of fish you want and where you’re going. For example, Lake Trout will thrive during the off-season, while Rainbow Trout will peter out by mid-August.

Much of it depends on where you are and your timing. For a complete fish run timing chart, check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

For a non-resident, fishing licenses start at $20 for a day, $35 for two days, $55 for seven days, $80 for fourteen days and $145 for a full year. However, non-resident military personnel only pay $24 for a full year.

Booking a Lodge or Charter

If fishing is the primary reason for your Alaska trip, most experts recommend booking your stay at a fishing lodge. The remote areas of Bristol Bay are teeming with lodges that can only be accessed by float plane.

Unfortunately, if you’re not there during the peak period of the local salmon run, you may be faced with slow fishing and a waste of money. Alternatively, choosing the right time and place but not booking ahead means you could lose out.

So, how do you know where the fish are or where they’ll be? Frommer’s travel guide, a respected and international travel guide company, recommends making your reservations through a local travel or fishing tour company. They endorse Sport Fishing Alaska specifically - available by phone at 1-888-552-8674.

The company is unique as they are an advocate for the angler, helping you book your Alaska fly fishing trip based on where the fishing is good, plentiful and timely. They’ll also work within any budget and for a small advance fee of just $95.

A fishing expedition in Alaska is one of the most thrilling adventures a true angler will ever experience. Because for many it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, you sure don’t want to lose time spent on planning the trip after you’ve already arrived at your destination. Taking advantage of some of the services mentioned above will help to ensure you are able make best use of your precious time on the water.