Gorge Fly Shop Blog: Fly Fish Alaska


*Carnivore. Meatatarian. Mouse - It's whats for dinner. Take your Pick!*

Fly fishing in Alaska can be spendy. For a first class fly-out lodge such as Royal Wolf or No See Um, the cost is $8000 for a prime week of incredible, fly-out fishing on a diversity of waters. Following are two alternatives for non-fly-out lodges, one having the option of a shorter, flexible stay. These two lodges both offer great fishing on aesthetically beautiful water, comfortable accommodations and tasty meals. They both specialize in fly fishing but take conventional anglers too. Whether you want to target Kings, Silvers or have some rainbow action you will find it here.

Riversong Lodge

Fish for Kings via jet boat

Riversong Lodge

Located 70 miles northwest of Anchorage at the confluence of Lake Creek and the Yetna River, Riversong Lodge has all five species of salmon and some fun wild rainbow fishing. It is a charming older main lodge with separate more modern guest cabins. The meals are outstanding with warm hospitality from the owners and staff.

Fishing is accessed via jet boat. On a visit there a couple of years ago, we had some great mousing and streamer action. The forested Lake Creek is a beautiful stream to fish. Anglers fish two per guide, using a jet boat for access. In mid summer there is even after dinner fishing. There is a morning and a late afternoon flight each day by Rust’s Air in a floatplane direct to the lodge. This allows for arranging a trip that fits your schedule and budget.

For instance, a five nights/four days fishing package is $3300 per person based on double occupancy, including the flight from Anchorage.

Talkeetna Fishing Lodge

River banks near Talkeetna Fishing Lodge

Cabin fit for two

The lodge is located two miles upstream from the Talkeetna River on Chunilna (Clear) Creek. They get all five species of salmon and, of course, rainbows. Each two anglers share a comfortable cabin, with access to the main lodge for dining, socializing and tying flies. The lodge takes 10-12 anglers per week but can handle up to 18 if they are all part of the same group. The lodge is accessed by van and then jet boat from the Anchorage airport. The food is outstanding here, as well, prepared by an accomplished chef who just happens to like living in the wilds of Alaska.

The guiding is a little more relaxed here, with three guides for the 10-12 anglers. Anglers will have all the assistance and guiding needed. Most anglers fish on their own once they understand the fishery that week, the water, and techniques. Fishing is accessed via jet boat and on foot. There is also the option to do a day fly-out via heli to the upper river for some amazing trout fishing for an additional (approx.) $150 per angler.

The rate is $3450 per person, Saturday–Saturday and includes transport from the anchorage airport.