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Top Alaska Fishing Destinations

The Alaska Territory covers a sprawling 664,998 square miles and was purchased from Russia by the United States back in 1867. At the time of the purchase, the U.S. had little idea how great the investment would be. In its time, it was heralded as a blunder and was called “Seward’s Folly” (named after former U.S. Secretary of State William Seward who brokered the deal with Russia). Attitudes quickly changed with the discovery of gold, precious metals, and rare minerals. Soon a population influx occurred and people began to head into the great Alaskan wilderness seeking riches and work. It was at this point the outdoorsman, hunters, and fisherman, among the wealth seekers heading north, began to see the great potential in the wilderness and waters of the area. When Alaska became an official state in 1959, the amount of people making the journey north increased. Now, Alaska has over 700,000 residents and is known worldwide for having some of the best opportunities for fishing on the planet.  

 

It didn't take people long to realize that the fishing here was extraordinary. With over 3,000 rivers and streams created by centuries of glacial movement, 6,640 miles of stunning coastline, and a stunning three million lakes and bodies of water, fishing here is unlike anywhere else. In fact, there are over 800 different documented fishing locations listed on official road maps and many more yet to be discovered. The diversity in species of fish and fishing opportunities in Alaska is impressive. A few species that people like to fish include king salmon, silver salmon, Pacific cod, steelhead trout, king crab, opilio crab, arctic char, burbot, halibut, rainbow trout and many more. With five different and gigantic fishing regions to choose from, finding the ideal destination with lodging can be difficult. Read along as we look at the best regions to fish and some of the top accommodation options in those areas.

 

First on our list the world famous Kenai Peninsula in the Southcentral region of Alaska. In particular, we will be looking at the Lower Cook Inlet area of the peninsula. The wilderness here is vast and lush. You’ll find a diversity of wildlife and fish, plus ample opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings. The fishing environment here is unique and presents you with different options than your typical fishing trip. If you're an adventurous angler, you have the option to head out to the open sea for saltwater fish such as halibut, cod, and rockfish. When fishing from land, try taking to the rivers and streams or posting up on one of the inlets for an experience like you've never seen. The king and silver salmon are the most sought after freshwater species by anglers here, but you’ll also have the opportunity to catch red and pink salmon as well. You can even try to catch razor clams along the coastline if you so desire. In addition to the fishing, this is a great place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the vast wilderness of Alaska has to offer. There are ample opportunities for bird and wildlife watching, golfing, boating, hiking, rafting and photography. We suggest that you visit Deep Creek Fishing Club in Ninilchik. Here you’ll find everything you need for that dream fishing excursion you’ve always wanted. From guided tours to relaxing on the beach, they have you covered. Contact them today to see what they can do for you!

 

Next up on our list is the Alaskan Panhandle, which is located in the Southeastern region of the state. We will be paying particular attention to the town of Ketchikan and the surrounding area. The minute you arrive here you’ll be blown away at the natural features of the region. With the majestic backdrop of the Coast Mountains, the land is covered in lush rainforests, streams, rivers, and lakes. The coastline is riddled with massive granite fjords that tower above the landscape. When it come to fishing, this is one of the top spots in the state. The barrier islands provide a buffer from the sea, only increasing the quality of fishing in the area.  In fact this area has been dubbed the “Salmon Capital of the World” due to the number of canneries that have made their homes here. All five species of Pacific salmon can be found here as well as halibut, ling cod, Pacific cod and rockfish. River, stream, and inlet fishing are also enjoyable, and you’ll have further opportunity to catch large salmon as well as steelhead, rainbow trout, grayling, and cutthroat trout. Our recommendation for lodging here is the Sportsman's Cove Lodge. Tucked away in a lush and massive forest, this resort is the ideal location for a fishing excursion or just to enjoy the diverse landscape and wildlife. They have everything you need for your Alaskan fishing trip including guides and equipment rentals. Thier friendly staff is ready and waiting to help you plan your next big getaway.


Last, but not the least, we are returning to Southwest Alaska, but we are heading inland to Sixmile Lake. Best reached by airplane or boat, the lake is roughly 200 miles southwest of Anchorage. The area is a hot bed for fisherman and outdoor enthusiasts. Located at the southern edge of the Lake Clark National Park, the area has stunning natural features and it embodies the quintessential Alaskan experience. Lush forests stretch as far as the eye can see, only interrupted by bodies of water and mountain peaks. The rivers, lakes, ponds, and streams you’ll find in the area surrounding SIxmile Lake are teeming with numerous species of fish. You’ll find a healthy variety including rainbow trout, king salmon, silver salmon, red salmon, lake trout, char and many more during your trip. In fact, many record trout and salmon have been caught in the rivers and streams of the area. Fishing is not the only activity you can enjoy during your stay. In addition to world class stream fishing, the Bears Katmai are world famous, and provide a unique opportunity to photograph while fishing. Take a boat ride and get a unique perspective of the land or just relax in front of a bonfire and tell tales of your adventures. In Southwest Alaska, Valhalla Lodge lies snuggled between Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park, 200 miles southwest of Anchorage. Perched directly on the shores of the lake, the lodge has everything you need for your ultimate fishing getaway. They have experienced guides that can take you to all the local hot spots on the rivers, lakes, and streams. They also have a fleet of boats and planes, so they can take you directly to your catch. Get in touch with this great all-inclusive lodge for a fishing trip you’ll never forget.