Talachulitna River

The Talachulitna River is known to the locals as the Tal. The river begins where the snow melts on Beluga Mountain and flows onward for 45 miles where it joins the Skwentna River. The physical river begins at Judd Lake where Talchulitna Creek also forms.

The river is a catch and release, at least in parts, river for Rainbow Trout and Steelhead. Many people enjoy drift fishing on the Talachulitna River. It is also a good river for rafting as it is made up long stretches of Class 1 segments interspersed with class 2-4 segments. There are several companies that operate drop-off and pickup drifting trips. The pickup spots vary, but you can also raft to Skwentna Town if you can survive Hell's Gate.

The Beartracks Lodge is one of the few lodges along the river. This is prime fly fishing country, and Beartracks Lodge specializes in fly fishing expeditions. Expect trophy sized Rainbow Trout and Arctic Grayling along with King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, and Silver Salmon.

For King Salmon fishing, the best time is late June through mid-July with the peak usually right around July 1-4.

For Sockeye Salmon fishing, the best time is late July through mid-August with the first week of August being prime.

For Silver Salmon fishing, the run spans the entire month of August with the peak in mid-August.