Who is best suited to this destination? This is a promising destination for those wanting a quality program that is easy to reach and also a convenient add-on to other Alaska vacation plans. The fall trout fishing on the upper Kenai is a fantastic option for hardcore anglers. It’s also a great option for families with mixed interests as there are many activities other than fishing that can be coordinated.
Where is the lodge? The lodge is located in the community of Cooper Landing on a beautiful piece of riverside property. It’s about a two-hour drive southeast of Anchorage.
How do I get there? Guests can choose to be picked up at the Anchorage airport or rent a car to make the scenic drive to the lodge themselves.
When should I go? For the most productive trout and silver salmon fishing, scheduling a trip after August 15 will be best. For those preferring to fish for sockeye and even king salmon, June and July are the months to go.
How will I fish? The guides operate large drift boats that will take up to four guests. Most trout fishing is done while floating and drifting flies. Some wading can occur when fishing for sockeye and when swinging flies for large trout, especially late in the season.
Is there wade fishing? There may be some wading, but anglers should expect to fish out of the boat for much of the fishing.
Where will I fish? The upper Kenai canyon and the middle Kenai River is where guests will fish. There also are options for offshore ocean fishing and conventional trolling for silver salmon in Resurrection Bay. There are several day floats to choose from on the upper and middle Kenai River. Most guests prefer to stay in the upper river as its permit system limits commercial access.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? Anglers may launch right from the lodge or can take about an hour drive. If they wish to pursue some saltwater options, anglers should expect to be in the vehicle for a few hours of that day.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? The main target is rainbow trout, but Dolly Varden are also prevalent. King, Sockeye and Silver salmon return to the Kenai River at various times of the season.
How many fish will I catch? During normal conditions in the prime part of the egg drop, anglers can expect to land a dozen or so trout and more Dolly Varden. Salmon fishing can vary greatly with kings being rare, sockeye fairly abundant and silver salmon numbers decent but not what one would expect in western Alaska.
Will I see other anglers? This can be a busy place with both visiting and local anglers taking advantage of the productive fishing.
What are the guides like? The guides are a mix of very experienced and newer guides. The company is very professional and has high standards for the staff.
What are the physical demands? There are no physical demands required for this destination.
Are there any special skills required? There are no special skills required for this destination.
Does the lodge provide equipment? The lodge can provide everything anglers need.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? Having a 9-foot 6-weight rod with a floating line is ideal.
What are the top flies? Streamers and dry flies for trout early in the season and beads(eggs) and flesh patterns later. For more information on specific flies please contact Fly Water Travel’s Alaska Destination Manager.
What are the options if water and weather conditions become challenging? The lodge is very comfortable and has the ability to coordinate many eco-activities if fishing is not in the cards.
What is a typical day like? The lodge and the guides like to get started early. Each evening the guide will inform guests of the meeting time. It will vary greatly depending on what species is being targeted and where anglers might be heading that day. The dining area is open early and stays open late to accommodate each guest’s specific timing.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The lodge grounds are scenic and fun to explore. The vibe is very friendly and casual. The main lodge is open throughout the day and night and guests are free to come and go as they please.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? There are many staff members on-site and all are friendly, service oriented and ready to help make guests’ stay enjoyable.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? There is a large dining hall where all guests eat. The meals are made to order and of high quality.
What is the alcohol policy? The lodge has a bar and guests are welcome to relax there with their beverage of choice.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests will stay in cabins with ensuite bathrooms, most of which are double occupancy with some able to accommodate a family of four.
Are single accommodations available? If so, is there an up-charge? Single accommodations are not available.
Is there internet and/or cell service? There is cell service at the lodge and the internet works well.
Are there other activities? The lodge can coordinate activities like rafting, hiking, flight seeing, glacier tours, dog sledding and many other fantastic activities. There are additional charges for certain activities, so it is recommended that guests plan their preferred itinerary in advance.
Are there any other expenses? There are additional activities that can add to the trip costs. The lodge takes credit cards if needed.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? There are some inherent dangers with boats and wildlife, but overall this is a very safe, well run facility that takes great pride in the services offered.