Alaska offers visitors the opportunity to experience stunning ocean coasts, rain forests, interesting wildlife, beautiful landscapes, rich culture and for the sports-minded, outstanding fly fishing. This state boasts over 3 million lakes, 3,000 rivers and numerous streams, all available for fly fishing. If desired, visitors may charter a boat or float plane to take them to an isolated location; over 627 species of fish swim in Alaskan waters so there are plenty of fish to catch.
License
Alaska requires residents, between the ages of 16 and 59, and non-residents 16 and older to acquire a sport fishing license to fish in fresh or saltwater. Alaska residents, 60 and older, do not need a sport fishing license; they must apply for the ADF&G Permanent Identification Card (PID), which is a lifetime fishing, trapping and hunting license. Non-residents may procure a sport fishing license for one day, nine days, 14 days or for a year. Non-residents are advised to obtain the license in Alaska. Licenses can be procured at most retail shops. When purchasing the license, confirm if there is a specific permit for the fish you aim to fly fish. Some fish, like king salmon, require a special permit.
Fishing Season
Fishing is almost a year-round sport in Alaska. However, different fish are more prevalent during specific seasons. Visit in September to catch silver salmon; fly fish in June to catch grayling. When fly fishing in Alaska, it is important to remember that unlike the lower 48 states, Alaska experiences extended periods of daylight and darkness. For example, in Anchorage, in June, the sun rises at 4:30 a.m.; the sun sets around 11:45 p.m. Visitors may consider taking a few days to adjust to the difference in daylight and darkness prior to fly fishing.
Fishing Gear
No matter what season you plan to fly fish, it is important to have the correct gear before you cast your lines. Check your rods, reel and line to make sure that nothing needs to be replaced. If you plan to fish in summer, shorts, comfortable shirts and mesh vests are a safe bet. Regardless of what time of year you fish, always protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat and polarized glasses. The sun glare from the ice and snow is just as harmful as the glare from the water.
Rules and Regulations
Alaska has statewide rules that address wasting fish, use of sport-caught fish as bait, the possession of sport-caught fish and waters closed to sport fishing. Visitors and residents are responsible for learning and abiding by the pertinent regulations. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game provides details about the various regulations; consult this site and make sure you are compliant with the rules and regulations before beginning to fly fish.
Bears in Alaska
Many fly fishers worry about the threat of bears. There have been no bear attacks reported in recent years; the threat is minimal. If you have food, make sure it is sealed in containers or trash bags. Bears seldom attack in the wilderness but if you’re concerned, bear repellent and pepper spray can be purchased at most bait and tackle shops.
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