Fishing in Alaska

What’s more Alaskan than tackling a world-class fish on a rod and reel? Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Alaska from all over the globe for a shot at the trophy fish this great state is famous for. Whether by sea, river or lake, making a fishing excursion part of your trip should be atop everyone’s list.

I say it a lot, but on any given cast, an angler could conceivably hook and land a fish of a lifetime in Alaska. Whether your goal is to catch fish to take home, cast a dry fly at rising trout or simply have the experience of fishing in Alaska, there are seemingly limitless options no matter where you travel here.

One of the easiest ways to get your fill of fishing in Alaska is to book a guided trip down one of the famous rivers of the Kenai Peninsula. Most trips are all-inclusive and only require you to purchase a fishing license, bring some warm clothes, a packed lunch and a sense of adventure.

The rivers of the Kenai Peninsula are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and everywhere you turn, you’ll swear you’re looking at a photograph, making a drift down the river on a guided trip an already-memorable experience.

If amazing scenery isn’t enough, the chance at spotting a wild brown or black bear, a bull moose, a lone wolf, coyote or one of the many otters or seals that roam our waters, will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Enough about amazing scenery and wildlife viewing already, let’s get to the fishing! As stated earlier, guided fishing trips make fishing in Alaska worry-free. All equipment is included: waders, boots, rods, reels, tackle, flies, bait and terminal tackle. The best part, you don’t need any fishing experience to be successful. Most techniques are very simple to learn and a professional guide will be right by your side helping you land your giant.

Most guides have both conventional fishing gear (i.e. spinning rods and baitcasting rods) and fly fishing gear for you to use. Both conventional gear and fly fishing gear can be used year-round for all species; however, fly fishing is often the preferred method for many species. Fear-not, you don’t have to cast like Brad Pitt in A River Runs Through It to have success. The techniques employed are rather simple, and here again, a professional will be by your side to ensure your success.

If you do catch salmon and decide to keep them, outfitters and guides provide fish cleaning and filleting services at no charge. There are also many local shops that will vacuum seal, freeze and ship your catch for you.

A fishing excursion in Alaska will prove to be an excellent addition to your vacation. From majestic scenery to wildlife viewing and trophy fish hunting, it’s hard to go wrong! There are lots of highly trained, professional guide services to choose from that want to help create lifelong memories for you and your family. We hope you have an outstanding visit and that Alaska will leave you longing to come back for more.

David Lisi is the owner of Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC based in Cooper Landing, AK where he makes his year-round home with his business partner and girlfriend Jackie. He is a professional fishing guide and outfitter on both the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers on the Kenai Peninsula. David has a passion for teaching various fishing techniques.  He spends upwards of 250-300 days a year guiding and fishing on many of Alaska’s famed rivers. David and Jackie are passionate about exploring Alaska and they are excited to share their home with you.