Alagnak Lodge

This is a fisherman's paradise. The local rivers are the gateway that millions upon millions of salmon use to migrate to their historical spawning grounds. There is a dance here that happens quietly, and that is unseen by many. Look around at all of the wildlife. It is all tied to the annual runs of the salmon and the influx of nutrients that they return to the land.

The Bristol Bay Watershed is home to all five species of Pacific Salmon. In these waters fishermen seek the monster trophy fish, those being the King Salmon. Kings weigh between 20-60 pounds on average, but can top the 120 pound mark. The Silvers are the next largest, and a good sized silver weighs 20-30 pounds. It is the Silver Salmon that put the word sport into sports fishing. They are legendary for their fight, display, and tenacity. The Pink Salmon are the most common, and they spawn in the rivers only on the even numbered years. The Sockeye Salmon are beautiful and when the run peaks, the rivers are Red with fish. The Tiger (Chum) Salmon are quite beautiful. They feature red and green strips that look something like camouflage. All of these fish are good eating, but each is prized for something unique.

Along with the Salmon is a host of other fish. Most notably is the Rainbow Trout. These opportunistic fish can hit the 18 pound mark in some of the local rivers. There are also Grayling, Dolly Varden, and Arctic Char. If you find you have had your fill of Salmon fishing, the little three pound Char make an amusing target. They are smart. They will drive you crazy. They will gather around your fly and decide if it is worthy of their time. When they do bite, it is almost always because they took pity on the fishermen. In all honesty, they are not that bad, but they require both luck and mental agility. Be the Fish!

In the heart of the Bristol Bay Watershed is the Alagnak river. It may rival the Kenai River for the title of the best place to fish. Guests of the lodge are lucky enough to stay right above the river. Evening is the perfect time to cast your fly into the water right below the lodge. In the day, fisherman are treated the best fishing spots by expert guides.

Come and enjoy Alaska. The fishing here at Alagnak Lodge is something that you will always remember, and in its subtle way, Alaska will call you back again.