Ask the Pros - Walk & Wade Fishing with the Wife

Michael,

Congrats on your upcoming trip to Alaska, you both will love it! Having a vehicle is crucial here, as close for us is 3 hours. Renting a small motorhome or truck camper is a great option. Also, hiring a guide for a day or 2 on the front end of your trip will help the 2 of you immensely as fishing up here is a little different than in the lower 48. North of Anchorage is the Alaska Parks Highway river system. Here you will find tons of access to lot's of rivers that are easily accessible by foot. Also, south of Anchorage there is the Kenai Peninsula which has good access as well but more pressure than up north. Both are sold fisheries. With regards to gear we fish 6 and 7 weight fly rods for trout, grayling, and dollies. Depending on when you visit would dictate which salmon species will be present. But, we typically fish 8 weight rods for salmon. Our trout don't eat bugs, they eat meat so having streamers as well as beads that imitate the salmon eggs are the main bugs we use. Hence, hiring a guide for a day or so and showing you how we fish here would be helpful. Salmon generally prefer large, bright streamers either swung or stripped. Also, make sure to check the regs as well as emergency orders before you fish as regs change frequently based on run numbers and specific river drainages. Good luck on your trip!

Cheers - Adam

Hi Michael, thanks for your question!

We're excited you're planning your first fly fishing adventure in Alaska. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

Gear Recommendations:

• Fly Rod & Reel: Choose a rod that fits your target species. If you’re aiming for salmon, a 9–10 weight rod is ideal. For trout, a lighter rod (6–7 weight) might be better. If you already have your preferred gear, feel free to bring it—otherwise, local rental options are available.
• Waders & Boots: Since you’ll be wading, invest in a good pair of breathable, insulated waders and sturdy wading boots. Early September can be cool and variable, so insulated gear will keep you comfortable.
• Clothing & Accessories: Layering is key—bring a waterproof jacket and pants, extra layers for warmth, a hat, and gloves. Polarized sunglasses are great for reducing glare and spotting fish. Don’t forget sunscreen and a small first-aid kit.
• Miscellaneous: A fishing vest or pack with plenty of pockets for your flies, tippet, and other essentials is a plus. And remember your Alaska fishing license!

Where to Go:

• Kenai River Near Soldotna: This area is a fantastic option for wade fishing, offering excellent action for both trout and salmon. The Kenai is well-known for its accessibility and beautiful scenery, making it perfect for first-time fly fishers.
• Kasilof River: Another great alternative with a slightly different atmosphere. Both rivers have plenty of wading access and provide fun, productive fishing.

Booking a local fishing guide for just a day or two is invaluable. You'll pick up local tips, learn about the best spots, and get insights into techniques that you won't find in a book. Once you’ve experienced that firsthand, you'll feel more confident and ready to try it on your own for the rest of your Alaska trip. Trust me, that initial investment in local expertise pays off every time.

Tight lines
Scott Daletas

Hi Michael,

Your best option for walk-n-wade fishing would be going North of Anchorage and fishing along the Alaska Parks Highway. You have 5 great streams, Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, Goose and Montana Creeks. All great trout and arctic grayling streams.

For gear; Waders, boots (rubber sole), wading jackets and warm layers. For trout a 6wt will be perfect and if you want to fish salmon an 8wt. Floating lines will be good. 0-3x leaders/tippet. Streamers, egg patterns and flesh flies will be the types of patterns for that time of the year.

Anything we can do to help or questions to answer, please let me know.

- Mike

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