Southwest Alaska features first-rate fishing opportunities for both beginner and advanced anglers. Guided fishing trips as well as unguided float trips are available through the area's numerous lodges, many of which feature fitness centers for those who want to remain fit for battling large fish. Area hiking, canoeing and kayaking is also available and features stunning views of Alaska's landscape and wildlife.
Geography
The entire region of southwest Alaska is filled with rivers and lakes optimal for fishing. Unlike other regions of Alaska these rivers run clear. Glaciers used to be in this region but have since melted into river valleys and large, deep glacier lakes including Lake Clark and Lake Iliamna. The lack of glacial silt in the area makes it ideal for fly fishing. Notable fishing rivers include the Kuskowin River, Goodnews River, King Salmon River, American Creek and Copper River among many others. Additional notable fishing lakes include Becharof Lake, Nonvianuk Lake and the Wood-Titchik Lakes. The Dutch Water Harbor area is used for saltwater fishing.
Types
Types of fish found in southwest Alaska include sockeye salmon, king salmon, silver salmon, pink salmon, chum salmon, Arctic char, Arctic grayling, lake trout, rainbow trout, northern pike, steelhead and halibut. Rainbow trout is probably the biggest draw to the area. The salmon runs in southwest Alaska are the largest in the world.
Considerations
The climate conditions of southwest Alaska are extreme. The area is prone to long periods of rain as well as wind. Temperatures range from 40- to 70-degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months and are extremely cold during the winter. Fall is the wettest season although packing rain gear is recommended for any season you choose to visit southwest Alaska. April and June are the sunniest months. Ice breaks up in May and returns in November.
Lodging
Enjoy a stay at one of southwest Alaska's fishing lodges, many of which offer guided fishing services and trips as well as numerous other outdoor recreational activities. The Alaska Bearclaw Fishing Lodge features kayaking, mountain climbing, canoeing and hiking opportunities. The Anvik River Lodge features an exercise room with a bow-flex, elliptical machine, bun and thigh rocker, mats, bands and exercise balls that can be used at any time during your stay.
Guide Services and Float Trips
Guided trips are available through many different service companies and lodges in southwest Alaska. Aniak Air Guides offer all-inclusive guided trips as well as do-it-yourself options. The company also provides rafting, backpacking, hiking and camping guided trips. Katmailand and Angler's Paradise Lodges offer unguided float and fishing trips down the Alagnak River. These six-day trips begin at the company's Anchorage office for your flight to Kulik Lodge where you will transfer to boat or float plane for a quick trip to Nonvianuk Camp where the float starts.
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