The Fall is here and it’s time to indulge my obsession of fishing in Alaska. This year’s trip provided as much enjoyment as any of the previous years. Notable this year were the big rainbow trout caught by all the lodge guests.

The Nuyakuk and Tikchik Rivers provided most of the largest rainbows. These were caught swinging Dahli-Llama streamers or black leech patterns across the flows. When executed correctly, the swing resulted in some hammering strikes.

The nearby Agulapak River again produced incredible numbers of 20″+ arctic char and rainbows for all those who fished there. Most fish were caught on a plastic bead pegged to the line 2″ above a bare hook to prevent deep hooking of the fish.

Flying to the Kulukuk River, we were able land 15-20 silver salmon each in the 8-14 lb. range. Bright color streamers in red, orange, pink and purple proved to be irresistible to the migrating salmon.

The Togiak River provided a mixed bag of char, rainbows, silvers, and large grayling.

A few of the guests walked the Grant River with good success on rainbows.

Noteworthy was the 5 of 11 anglers at the lodge were in the 74-78 age group. (Yeah, I’m one of the 74’s). The lodge program can easily accommodate the ability of those “past their prime”. We were able to complete 6 days of fishing and catch the same number and quantity as our younger counterparts. 

Meals at the lodge would put many restaurants to shame. Some of the local fare included halibut, salmon and elk chops. More traditional items included steaks and an Italian buffet

The trip was coordinated by International Angler with lodge operations conducted by Sweetwater Travel. The trip cost was $12970 plus license, tips, and travel to Anchorage.

It’s expensive, but worth the price.

Tight loops and tight lines,

Al