Lake Creek and the dozen or so surrounding streams abound with Alaska fly fishing opportunities. June brings Alaska King Salmon (currently closed) followed by early July and chum salmon, pink salmon. Last but never least, Alaska silver salmon (coho) in late July and August. Anglers will find plenty of fly rod action. Our best rainbow trout fishing begins in early August when several species of salmon are spawning in Lake Creek.
Only at Northwoods Lodge
Northwoods Lodge provides only the best fishing gear with top-of-the-line rods and reels. Since 1985 we have offered our clients first-class service, excellent Alaska salmon fishing, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff. Fly & spin anglers will sample fishing only Alaska can provide. Our Deluxe Alaska Fishing Resort is situated on Fish Lakes Creek, in the heart of southcentral Alaska’s best angling destination.
June/July – Alaska Fly Fishing for King Salmon (currently closed)
Alaska King Salmon is probably the most exciting Alaskan salmon species that can be taken on the fly. These fish range from 15 to 60 lbs and can tax even the best equipment. We usually fish from shore or wade from gravel bars to pursue these large fish.
Casting a heavy fly to Alaska King Salmon requires proper technique and gear. Early Kings arrive when river flows are high, requiring heavy shooting heads and large weighted flies. Later in June and early July, water levels drop, and 8-weight rods become more viable—though 10 to 12-weight rods are typically used.
We like to use:
Two-handed spey rods in tight casting areas
Large fly reels (3.5–4.5″ spools) with durable drag systems
Leaders: 3–4 ft, 15–30 lb mono depending on clarity
100+ yards of 20–30 lb backing
Once hooked, kings should be fought with light pressure to keep them from turning downstream. Ideally, position yourself downstream and apply steady, controlled tension to land them efficiently.
These species can provide fast-paced fly rod action. Alaska Silvers are aggressive, aerial fighters. They typically stack in sloughs and backwater pools, so long casts aren’t required.
Fly tips:
Silvers: Purple Egg-sucking leech on 1–1/0 hooks
Chums: Chartreuse flies and lures
Sockeyes: Bare red hooks or sparse fly patterns
Use 7–8 weight rods for silvers and chums. For pinks, 5–6 weight rods, floating line, and lightly weighted flies work best. In shallow water, dry flies and poppers like the Pink Polliwog can yield topwater strikes.
Rainbows & grayling can be caught with nymphs, smolt patterns, and sculpins. Egg & flesh patterns also work. Sunny June afternoons bring strong caddis and mayfly hatches.
Mid to Late Season
By July and August, king salmon begin spawning. Egg and nymph patterns become the go-to flies. From mid-August to September, flesh flies dominate, though mouse or shrew patterns are also productive in the late afternoon.
Grayling migrate in early spring and late fall. The best time for large 15–20 inch grayling and colorful rainbows is during the fall salmon spawn. 5 to 8-weight rods are ideal.
Northern Pike Fly Action
Northern Pike are found in upstream lakes and offer exciting fly rod action throughout the season. The biggest pike (10–25 lbs) are caught in early June and late August–September.
Use 8–9 weight rods for casting large streamers and topwater flies
Leaders: 15–20 lb with 40–50 lb mono or wire tippet
Our guides are skilled in cleaning pike for a delicious fish fry at the lodge. A fully equipped fly tying table is available, and our staff is happy to teach newcomers.
Call Northwoods Lodge at (907) 354-3474 to Book Your Next Alaska Fly Fishing Trip.
Alaska Fly-In Fishing at Its Best!
Guests are flown in by Rust’s Flying Service. The scenic 40-minute flight from Anchorage is part of the adventure. Since 1985, we’ve delivered exceptional service, great Alaska salmon fishing, and a welcoming environment.
Alaska Fishing at Northwoods Lodge
Lake Creek and other freshwater tributaries of the Yentna River offer some of the best salmon runs in Alaska. Our professional guides will take you out in custom boats to target King, Silver, Pink, and Sockeye Salmon—as well as Arctic Grayling and Rainbow Trout.
One Guide for 2–4 Clients
Flexible Daily Schedules
Competitive Rates
Fly & Spin Fishing
Satellite TV and Internet
Fishing Equipment Included
Tackle & Hip Boots Provided
Family-Owned & Operated
Private Lake View Cabins
Sauna
What Our Guests Have to Say
“This place is heaven on earth. We enjoyed the beautiful lodge, the wonderful food and the fantastic fishing!”
— Suzanne and John Schibel, Tampa, FL
“What a great time I had at your lodge. The word thanks seems so inadequate, but it’s all I know. You and your crew did a fantastic job. I look forward to returning in the future.”
— Ted Owens, Nashville, TN
Call (907) 354-3474 to book your Alaska fishing adventure today! 