SALTWATER FLY FISHING TRIPS - 2026
JUNE
SALMON POPULATIONS
Southeast Alaska is known for its phenomenal fishing. Every year thousands of people live out their angling dreams on the rivers and in the salt water on guided and DIY trips.
In addition to native runs of all 5 species of Pacific salmon, the region is enhanced with hatchery populations that return annually to the coves, inlets and bays in which they were released. This is different than the Lower 48 model in which hatchery runs were mixed with native runs on big rivers which diluted the the DNA. While there is likely a degree of mixing, these areas with terminal runs of coho and king are near freshwater creeks without native runs and provide excellent opportunities to fill the freezer or catch and release. The creeks are too small to support spawning, so the fish circle in the tidal waters and become catch for commercial fishermen, food for subsistence anglers and fun for those sport fishing.
WEATHER
Weather is unpredictable and we use 3 weather sources to plan our direction for each trip. We have scouted coves and inlets that will provide the best fishing in protected waters. The biggest variable is the wind which can turn choppy mornings into unsafe fishing conditions. While there is a grip for the angler in the bow, we will always prioritize safety and will not fish in marginal or dangerous weather. Full refunds will be given for trips cancelled by us due to weather.
JULY
METHODS
The opportunities to troll, mooch or cast spinners to salmon in the saltwater are nearly unlimited. But the fly angler is often excluded, likely because it is unnecessarily difficult. That, of course, is a major selling point for those who like to fly fish. We do not use downriggers or heavy weights to get flies down to fish. We sight fish and cast using sinking tips and sinking lines to fish that are pushing up with the rising water toward river mouths, or retreating with the tide back to sea.
At times you are certain there have to be fish and when a dime-bright coho or king fins, jumps or chases bait, you make your cast, strip…strip…strip and prepare yourself for the strip set of a lifetime.
CONSIDERATIONS
To maximize time on the water, we do not provide transportation to and from the boat launch. The launch is a considerable skiff ride from downtown and the heavy traffic makes towing a skiff into downtown prohibitive for pick up. Trips are up to 5 hours, eliminating shuttling will secure you at least an additional hour of fishing. However, the burden of finding your way to the meeting spot is reflected in the price.
Since this is an ocean-based operation we operate with a state-issued guide’s license in addition to a United States Coast Guard issued OUCV (6-pack) license.
AUGUST
GEAR
Our boat is an 18-foot Lund with a casting platform in the bow and room for a second angler in the stern. The open skiff is ideal for casting and maneuverability. All guided trips are private. Though the capacity of the skiff is 7 people, no more than 2 will be out on a trip at a time and you will not be joined by someone outside of your group. This will put a maximum of 3 people (guide included) into the boat to maintain a safe, comfortable experience.
Waders
Since we will be fishing from the skiff, you will not need waders or wading boots, just a good set of rain gear which can be provided if necessary.
Rods and Reels
We will use a combination of Sage and Echo 8- and 9-weight single handed and switch rods with Lamson, Ross and Sage reels.
RATES
1 Angler - $450 Additional angler $50
Cancellation policy:
If you cancel more than two weeks before the trip, we will refund any payment beyond your $100 deposit. If you cancel within two weeks, no refund will be given. If we must cancel due to weather or any unforeseen circumstance, the full amount (including deposit) will be refunded.
