fishing tour alaska

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Alaska Fishing Trips

Alaska Fish On Charters provides you a full service Alaska salmon fishing and halibut experience that is second to none. With over 70 years of Alaska fishing experience combined on the Kenai River and the Halibut fishing grounds, our fishing guides provide you with all the tools you need to have a spectacular fishing adventure. We don’t brag we let our repeat clients do it for us, our goal is to send clients home with fish for their freezer and memories that last forever. Thank you for your interest in our Business!

Looking to book an exciting and rewarding Alaska fishing trip? Alaska Fish On Charters provides full service Alaska fishing trips with salmon fishing and halibut fishing experience that is second to none. With over 70 years of experience guiding Alaska fishing trips on the Kenai river and the Halibut fishing in the Cook Inlet. The Kenai river is world renowned for salmon fishing and the Cook Inlet is highly regarded for its halibut fishing. Alaska Fish On Charters is located in the perfect location for Alaska fishing trips.

Our Alaska fishing guides provide you with all the tools you need to have a spectacular Alaska fishing trip. We don't brag - we let our repeat clients do it for us, and our goal is to send clients home with fish for their freezer and memories that last forever. Thank you for your interest in Alaska fishing trips and in Alaska Fish On Charters!

Alaska fishing trips vary greatly depending on what river you fish, and many of Alaska’s rivers offer breathtaking locations for you to enjoy. The Kenai River is a prime location for reeling in King Salmon , Silver Salmon , Red Salmon and Pink Salmon, as well as Trophy Trout . Other great rivers to utilize during Alaska fishing trips are the Kasilof River, the Ninilchik River, Deep Creek and more. Alaska is also known as the best place in the world to go halibut fishing , and once you boat a halibut during your Alaska fishing trip you will understand why. If you book an Alaskan fishing trip with us, we’ll ensure that you will get the most out of your trip to the Last Frontier.

Alaska Salmon Fishing Trips

Alaska salmon fishing may be some of the best fishing in the world, especially when your trip has a guide with experience, patience, and professionalism on the Kenai and Kasilof  Rivers. Our passion for salmon fishing on these Rivers, providing exciting and fulfilling Alaska fishing trips for eager fishermen, and teaching the craft to others makes salmon fishing with Alaska Fish On Charters a personal experience, and one you’ll remember for years. Whether you are looking for the thrill of fishing King Salmon, Red Salmon or Silver Salmon, we have it all.  Our clients enjoy the company of our knowledgeable salmon fishing guides.  We have a high success rate of satisfied customers who rave about our Alaska fishing trips, along with letters of recommendation to prove it, too. We have a high success rate of satisfied customers who rave about our Alaska fishing trips, along with letters of recommendation to prove it, too.

Alaska Halibut Fishing Trips

Alaskan halibut are some of the most sought after fish in the world and can be a great addition to the best Alaska fishing trips. Clients like the moist, flakey texture of halibut that goes with just about anything. The Cook Inlet is known for some of the best Alaskan halibut fishing around, and definitely a must-visit spot on any Alaska fishing trip. In fact, Homer is the Alaskan halibut fishing capital. Alaska Fish On Charters has an abundance of knowledge, from the best time of day and year to fish to the type of bait to use, to provide you with the ultimate Alaska Halibut fishing trips. Halibut are thrilling to fish for. These flatfish that linger at the depths of the water provide an exciting challenge for everyone during their Alaska trip, and you never know what size you’re going to catch when you drop your line down. Halibut range anywhere from 10 lbs to 410 lbs…

Alaska Trophy Trout Fishing Trips

Alaskan trout is highly sought after by many fisherman. Enhance your Alaska fishing trip by committing to catching a trophy trout, and let Alaska Fish On Charters help you accomplish it. If you choose to embark on an Alaska fishing trip, you’ll learn that this state has many different places to fish for these brightly-colored, acrobatic fish.The Kenai River is a fly fisherman’s paradise and an essential stop on the best Alaska fishing trips. The state of Alaska has rivers that will produce trophy trout, but many people can’t afford to pay $5,000 to $7,000 for a week of fishing. At Alaska Fish On Charters, we offer trophy trout fishing for less than $2,000, which is an option that is great for your budget, but that still provides a stellar Alaska fishing trip experience.

Alaska Fly-in Fishing & Bear Viewing

Alaska fly-in fishing trips are a great addition to any Alaska fishing package.  When you are fishing for salmon or trout on a secluded Alaska fly-in trip you have a good chance of seeing bears in their natural habitat. Alaska bear viewing is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alaska! If you have never witnessed bears in their natural habitat, it is something you will remember forever. The best place to experience this is on a fly-in fishing trip. Compliment your Alaska fishing trips with this exciting addition – Alaska Fish On Charters can help you plan a day trip to witness a truly unique Alaska experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

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Alaska Fishing Packages

Alaska Fish On Charters offers a wide variety of feature-filled, competitively priced Alaska fishing packages out there. We have reduced the prices of our Alaska fishing packages to meet your budget and allow you to eat at some of the finest restaurants in Alaska! Our Alaska Fishing Packages have very competitive prices but that don’t mean we don’t have a quality guide service. We have some the best guides money can buy, and they are all available to help make the most of your trip in our Alaska Fishing Packages. We don’t like bragging about it – we catch fish to prove it. With our Alaska fishing packages, we don’t like to put you on a time frame and tell what time of the day you have to eat, so enjoy the savings and we will show you where to eat. If you want to put all your focus on the fishing, we’ll take care of making the food decisions for you. If you enjoy cooking and want to be hands-on in that aspect of your Alaska fishing trip, we also have kitchens in all of our lodging that is yours to use while staying with us. Our Alaska fishing packages are flexible so that you are guaranteed to have the experience you desire and catch the fish you came to Alaska for.

Captain’s Special (Aug & Sept)

Salmon & halibut package.

• 4 Nights of Lodging
• 1 – guided halibut fishing trip
• 2 – 5 1/2hr trips of Guided Silver or Sockeye Salmon Fishing
• First 50 lbs. of Fish Processing and 1 Airline approved box.
• (All Fishing Gear and Lodging Necessities are Included)
• (All packages are changeable upon your request before booking add to or take away just ask)
• $1,450 per person for 4 guests | $1,565 per person for 3 guests | $1,750 per person for 2 guests |$2,500 for 1 guest

Relatives Paying for Shipping (May)

Halibut & king salmon combo package.

• 6 Nights of Lodging
• 2 Full Days of Guided King Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof River
• 2 Full Days of Guided Halibut & Salmon Combo on Cook Inlet or Gulf of Alaka Waters
• First 100 lbs. of Fish Processing and 2 Airline approved boxes.
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $2,165

Fish & Go (June)

King salmon package.

• 3 Full Days of Guided King or Sockeye Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof River
•  First 50 lbs. of Fish Processing and 1 Airline approved box.
• (All packages are changeable upon your request before booking add to or take away  just ask)
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $1,435 

Should Have Stayed Longer (June)

Halibut & king salmon package.

• 5 Nights of Lodging
• 2 Full Days of Guided King or Sockeye Salmon Fishing on the Kenai or Kasilof Rivers
• 1 Day of Guided Halibut Fishing on the Cook Inlet or Gulf of Alaska Waters
• 1 Day of Sight Seeing or Fishing on Your Own – We Will Point You in the Right Direction
• Discounted Rate Per Person – $1,595

View All Fishing Packages

Kenai Peninsula

Your Alaska fishing trip doesn’t have to solely focus on fishing. There are many great restaurants and stores to enhance your Alaska fishing trip. Why pay top dollar for an all inclusive Alaska fishing trip when you can eat at some of the finest restaurants on the Kenai Peninsula to truly experience the life of the locals in the great Frontier? Check out the great food and stores within minutes of all our lodging as an added bonus of our Alaska fishing trips. The Kenai Peninsula has a lot of options to meet your needs.

Find Local Establishments

Alaska Fishing Guides

While fishing guides are common throughout the state, having the right guide makes a tremendous difference on your Alaska fishing trip. At Alaska Fish on Charters, we provide services that will make your adventure meet all of your expectations and enhance your Alaska fishing trip experience to the highest level. Alaska is a wonderful land of breathtaking beauty, and the best way to experience Alaska fishing trips and the Kenai River is with a trusted guide at your side. Alaska Fish on Charters is the go-to place to find the best guides to take you on the Alaska fishing trip of a lifetime.

Meet Our Fishing Guides

Alaska Fishing Vacation

An Alaska fishing trip vacation wouldn’t be complete without a guided Kenai River adventure . You can choose between a variety of Alaska fishing trips with complete packages and stay in our comfortable fishing lodge for four to seven nights. Of course, there will be plenty of Alaska salmon on this Alaska fishing tip, but there are also days when you can explore other great features of the beautiful Kenai Peninsula. From high-end shops and restaurants to plane and helicopter rides, to exploring the wildlife, you’ll never run out of things to do on your Alaska fishing trip.

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All-Inclusive Alaska Fishing Lodge Packages

“the most diverse alaska fishing vacations”.

Fishing trips in Alaska are truly one-of-a-kind experiences, even for those who take them frequently. We’re known for our guided fishing packages because they highlight all that Alaska has to offer. Our Alaskan fishing adventures include salmon fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers, halibut fishing in Homer and Ninilchik, rockfish and cod fishing, and more.

Whether you’re looking for a solo getaway, unforgettable couples retreat, or a family adventure, the peninsula offers boundless opportunities for experienced and beginner anglers alike.

Take the hassle out of vacation planning with one of our Alaska fishing packages today. Booking is easy. Simply choose from one of our three popular Alaska fishing trip packages or use the Trip Planner to get in touch with an expert who can help you customize your Alaskan holiday today.

The Alaskan

$3,695/person, package includes.

• 7 Nights Ocean Front Lodging
• 7 Day Rental Car
• 1 Day Guided Homer Halibut Fishing
• 1 Day Guided Ninilchik Halibut Fishing
• 1 Day Guided Kenai River Salmon Fishing
• 1 Day Guided Kasilof River Salmon Fishing
• 2 Extra Days To Enjoy Alaska!

Complimentary Fish Processing + Packaging

The Novelist

$4,310/person.

• 1 Day Guided Fly Out Salmon Fishing
• 1 Extra Day to Enjoy Alaska!

The Ultimate

$4,615/person.

• 1 Day Rockfish, Salmon + Cod Fishing

Trips DO NOT Include: Airfare, food, gratuities, sales taxes, 3% service fee, travel insurance, or credit card processing fee.

** Alaska fishing vacation packages can be changed at an adjusted cost for better customization **

The Kenai Peninsula is home to many species of fish and each new season provides new possibilities for a unique adventure. When you book your fishing trip to Alaska with us, you get all-inclusive convenience without the need for compromise. We offer three distinct Kenai Peninsula fishing packages, each designed to maximise your fishing experience in Alaska. However, our trips are fully customizable and therefore only limited by time and your imagination.

Your Alaskan holiday should be everything you imagined and more. Our all-inclusive fishing trips include several fully-guided day excursions with a certified expert, all new tournament-grade fishing gear, 7 days in a private lodge overlooking Mount Iliamna and Cook Inlet, a rental car, and fish processing and packaging.

We’ve remained the go-to vacation hub for anglers within Alaska and the lower 48 year after year because we make vacation planning easy and offer a wide range of customizable adventures for salmon fishing, halibut fishing, fly-out fishing and more. Don’t wait another year. Start planning your guided Alaska fishing trip today.

Full Adventure Planning:

With Soaring Eagle, your guided fishing adventure is just clicks away. Our experienced customer service team will handle all of the details for you, including creating your customized week-long fishing itinerary, booking your rental car, and securing comfortable lodging in one of our oceanfront cottages .

Variety in Fishing Adventures:

We are conveniently located on the Kenai Peninsula close to the action! From Seward down to Homer, we offer a variety of fishing experiences for your vacation. Whether you’re looking to create your own week with us or choose from one of our popular all-inclusive Alaska fishing trip packages, we have you covered!

5-Star Rated Guides:

When it comes to fishing, we understand that experience counts. We only work with the best guides to lead our fishing expeditions. Our team consists of guides who consistently receive the highest ratings on TripAdvisor and have extensive industry experience. Each one is eager to make your fishing trip in Alaska an exceptional experience!

Tournament Grade Gear:

As a premier Alaska fishing lodge, we understand you’re only as good as the tools at your disposal. With sponsorships from Cabela’s, Penn, Shakespeare, SpiderWire and more, our charters are equipped with only the best fishing gear every season.

EXCELLENT DISCOUNTS:

If you’re looking for the ultimate fishing vacation, there’s no better place than Soaring Eagle Lodge. With EXCLUSIVE vendor rates and an expert team by your side, booking an affordable Alaska fishing trip has never been easier.

We look forward to helping you create your dream adventure!

LOCK IN LOWER RATES!

FOR SUMMER 2024

• Salmon Fishing
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Bear Viewing

• Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival In Homer Alaska

Book Your Alaska Fishing Charter Trip With Us!

With over 30+ years of experience offering the finest alaska fishing charter trip & lodge accommodations, looking to book an exciting and rewarding alaska fishing trip with over 30+ years of experience alaskan gamefisher specializes in private multiple day alaska fishing charters, & lodging, where you are the only group of anglers at our alaska fishing lodge, & on our fishing boats..

Read Our Customer Reviews

LATEST ALASKA FISHING & BEAR VIEWING REPORTS

Alaska Fishing Report – 24th August 2023

Fill the family freezer fishing day, fun was had by all. Book your Alaska Halibut Fishing Trips with us. read more

Alaska Fishing Report – 8th August 2023

South Dakota guys wacked some butts today fly out salmon trip tommorow for em. Book your Alaska Fishing Trips... read more

Alaska Fishing Report – 27th July 2023

Gleysin & Kimberly’s first Alaskan salmon , they were having a blast. Book your Salmon Fishing in Alaska Trips with... read more

Why Choose Alaskan Gamefisher for your next fishing trip?

Our Alaskan Fishing Charters are created specifically with your personal requests in mind. Your trip is truly custom, so we can build your fishing/lodging package however you want it with a combination of saltwater halibut fishing , freshwater salmon fishing , & fly out remote stream salmon fishing , wildlife , & Bear Viewing trips .

Fishing Season

Our saltwater Halibut, & King salmon combo trips start in early May, the only month we fish for both salmon, & halibut the same day in the saltwater fishery. June we will transition our king salmon fishing to the Kenai River all the way thru July, Then in August the feisty Coho, or Silver salmon will be in play in the rivers.

Our fly out trips we can begin to catch silver salmon starting about July 20, sockeye salmon June 5th to Late July on fly outs and on the Kenai river mid July to mid August. We can get into large numbers of saltwater silver salmon over in seward starting early July running into late august. Our Homer Alaska saltwater boat concentrates on halibut only in June, July & August.

About the Guide

Captain Mel Erickson owner & head Guide of Alaskan Gamefisher since 1989 will personally be your Alaska fishing guide for our several fisheries. Kenai River salmon fishing, in June, July & August and on saltwater halibut & King Salmon Combo charters in May, on Cook Inlet, at Anchor Point near Homer.

Captain Mel Erickson is one of very few Alaska fishing guides that personally guides for both Kenai River Salmon, Alaska Halibut, & also owns the boats for both fisheries. This means you will fish both salmon, & halibut with the same guide business and not be sub-contracted out like so many of the other guide services here.

We do have hired Captains that run our salt boat when captain Mel is on the Kenai River putting you on big Kenai river king, & Coho salmon. Captain Mel also personally guides many of the fly out trips, & the Bear viewing trips where we will be very close to Coastal Alaskan Brown Bears.

Captain Mel Erickson Says:

I cannot stress enough the benefits of a private charter for your group only, while we do shared charters where you share the cost of the boat with other anglers, many problems arise from mixed group fishing trips, especially in the saltwater halibut trips. I highly recommend doing the private charters!

30+ Years Of Experience

People return again and again to fish with Alaskan Gamefisher. Our 30 plus years of experience makes the difference. We guarantee your satisfaction and can provide numerous references that will be happy to share their own experiences with you.

BOOK ALASKA SALMON FISHING TRIP

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Enjoy your alaskan vacation trip.

Make your reservation right now with the best price

What To Expect?

All package trips include a full day of fishing including Salmon and/or Halibut in both fresh water and saltwater. The boat, crew, fishing equipment and lodging are all included in these packages. (Read More…)

• Private or Shared
• Fishing Equipment
• Fresh & Salt Water Fishing
• Full Day Packages
• Multi Day Packages
• Half or Full Day Trips

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Guest Reviews

Just finished a private Salmon/halibut combo trip for 3 of us. May 2018 with Captain Mel Erickson on the Gamefisher near Homer Alaska, Great Time and we will be back, brought home 3 50lb boxes of salmon & halibut.

I have been fishing with Captain Mel Erickson every year for over 20 years, we always do a 6 day/7 night private package usually in August, but been every month of summer. Fishing with Mel is a lot of fun & we always have a great time and bring home lots of fish fillets. The fly out trips are my favorite.

Dale Buckner Amarillo Texas

We did a Bear Viewing tour with Captain Mel Erickson on the Gamefisher, the trip to Lake Clark National Park was amazing, we saw over 30 bears, very beautiful location. I cant believe we were so close to a grizzly bear & Mel is very knowledgable about bears.

Karl laxtas Tampa FL

Thanks again Mel for the excellent fishing trip, you are the best Kenai River salmon guide & always seem to put us on the kings when the other boats are catching nothing. Take care, & see you in 2 years on our next trip.

Paul Simpkins Logan Utah

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Sport Fishing

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Alaska Fishing Lodges, Charters & Fishing Trips

Home » Tours » Outdoor Adventures » Sport Fishing

Fish Alaska for a day or a week! World-class fishing in Alaska is available to all, from novices to experienced anglers. Alaska fishing vacations range from day fishing trips to those included in a multi-activity tour to lodge-based fishing trips at Alaska’s world-renowned sport fishing lodges .

Choose from the remote and pristine waters of Bristol Bay to the Kenai Peninsula . From salmon fishing to halibut to rainbow trout, Alaska sportfishing can be found throughout the state, from Anchorage-based fishing trips for salmon, Homer fishing charters for halibut, fishing charters from Ketchikan, as well as fly-out adventures to all-inclusive Alaska fishing lodges .

Header photo courtesy of Jeff Schultz/Jeff Schultz Photography

Choose from 12 vacations in Alaska related to Sport Fishing

Quintessential Alaska: Denali, Glaciers & Fishing

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $2339 / pp

Travel by train to see Denali National Park. Travel into Denali on a bus tour. Return to Anchorage by coach and pick up a rental car. Drive to Whittier for a glacier cruise in Prince William Sound. Spend... Browse itinerary

Discover Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula by Car

Starting at: $1199 / pp

A relaxed driving tour of the Kenai Peninsula and a day cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy unlimited mileage in your midsize rental vehicle. Overnight stops in Seward, Homer, and Soldotna provide opportunities for world sport... Browse itinerary

Redoubt Bay Lodge

Duration: 2 days

Starting at: $1965 / pp

Departing from Anchorage's Lake Hood, it is just a 50-minute flight by seaplane over Cook Inlet to the entrance of Lake Clark Pass. Nested in a 171,000-acre critical habitat area, Redoubt Bay Lodge has three rustic cabins and... Browse itinerary

Fly-Out Guided Fly Fishing from Anchorage

Length: 10 hours

Starting at: $870 / pp

This Anchorage day trip lets anglers experience guided fly fishing in Alaska, a fishermen’s dream trip! Enjoy the experience of fighting silver salmon, feisty trout, and grayling without the crowds (depending on the season). From Anchorage, travel in... Browse itinerary

Orca Adventure Lodge

Duration: 3 days

Starting at: $1159 / pp

Start in Anchorage with a scheduled flight over glacier-carved Chugach mountains to Cordova's quaint historic fishing town. On arrival, transfer to the lodge and settle into one of the 40 cozy guest rooms for two nights. The lodge... Browse itinerary

Fly-Out Guided Spin Fishing from Anchorage

Starting at: $818 / pp

This Anchorage fishing trip gives you the true Alaska spin/tackle fishing experience! Enjoy the challenge of fighting silver salmon, feisty trout, and grayling without the crowds (depending on the season). From Anchorage, travel in a floatplane to a... Browse itinerary

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Duration: 4 days

Starting at: $2476 / pp

Transfer provided to Cooper Landing, just a 2-hour scenic drive from Anchorage. The lodge sits on the upper reaches of the Kenai River, a world-renowned for wild salmon and trophy trout fishing. This riverside retreat is the perfect... Browse itinerary

Ice Fishing Day Tour from Fairbanks

Length: 6.5 hours

Starting at: $285 / pp

Today you will be picked up from your Fairbanks hotel for a full day of guided Alaska lake ice fishing.  Learn traditional Alaska Native skills and techniques for ice fishing from experienced ice fishing guides.  While catching fish... Browse itinerary

Talkeetna River Fishing (Half Day)

Length: 3 hours

Starting at: $230 / pp

This Alaska fishing half-day tour from  Talkeetna takes you by jet boat to the best fishing holes on the Talkeetna River. Talkeetna is located at the confluence of the Talkeetna, Susitna, and Chulitna Rivers, offering a few possible... Browse itinerary

Kenai River or Kasilof River Salmon Fishing (Half Day)

Length: 4-6 hours

Starting at: $218 / pp

Enjoy a half day fishing charter on the Kenai River or Kasilof River.  Your fishing guide will take you in a custom made drift boat or a power boat to the best fishing places. You will fish for... Browse itinerary

Halibut Fishing in Homer (Full Day)

Length: 8-10 hours

Starting at: $351-386 / pp

The Alaska city of Homer is known as the “Halibut Capital of the World” and offers some of Alaska’s best halibut fishing from mid-May to September. The boat trip itself on this Homer fishing trip is a treat... Browse itinerary

Halibut Fishing in Homer (Half Day)

Length: 5-6 hours

Starting at: $242 / pp

Enjoy fishing in Kachemak Bay from Homer, known as the “Halibut Capital of the world,” This half-day fishing charter reaches nearby fishing grounds for halibut.  This Homer fishing adventure is recommended for families or those who only have... Browse itinerary

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Alaska Guided Fishing Trips & Packages for Salmon & Rainbow Trout

Guided Alaska Fishing Trips for Salmon and Trout

With alaska drift away fishing guides, guided alaska fishing trips, for salmon & rainbow trout.

Fishing for Salmon and Rainbow Trout in Alaska is the experience of a lifetime! No matter if you’re an experienced angler, a total beginner, or somewhere in between, guided Alaska fishing trips with Alaska Drift Away Fishing is the perfect way to experience Alaska’s fishing at its finest.

Trout Fishing

Battling a true Kenai River trophy rainbow trout will challenge the most experienced angler. Whether your passion is fly fishing or spin fishing we have the techniques and locations to set you up with the best Alaska trout fishing trip of a lifetime!

Salmon Fishing

YOU, the angler, and YOUR Alaska salmon fishing trip is our top priority. Whether hunting first-run king salmon on the Kasilof river, filling the freezer with red salmon, or fly fishing silvers on the turquoise water of the Kenai, we have you covered.

How Much Does an Alaska Fishing Trip Cost?

The cost of your Alaska Fishing Trip will depend on what you choose to do. We have many different options for our guided fishing trips. You can book a half-day fishing trip for as low as $195 per person or choose a fishing package starting at $285 per person. You also have the option of paying per person or booking a private boat. From custom multi-day packages to 4 hours on the water we can deliver you a Kenai River experience that will last a lifetime.

From $195 per person.

We offer full day, 6hr, and 1/2 day trips. We provide all necessary gear for fishing, expert instruction, and deep knowledge about the river and its inhabitants. Your guides are the owners and have been fanatically guiding trout on the Kenai since 2005. Caution, many folks fishing a day with us have turned into longtime repeat clients. Your Kenai experience will leave you wanting more.

Make it custom or pre-made – starting at $285 per person (1 night / 1 half day)

Our Alaska Fishing Packages allow you the flexibility to create your dream Alaska Fishing Trip. We work closely with you to plan your dream Alaska fishing package. With our experience and your desire, we will turn your dream into reality. From river and ocean fishing, flightseeing, glacier viewing, and everything in between we guarantee you will not get bored.

Meet Your Alaska Fishing Guides

Alaska Fishing Season

The Alaska Fishing Season on the Kenai Peninsula runs from Mid-May through October. The Kenai and Kasilof Rivers receive 3 species of salmon and multiple runs during the Alaska Salmon Season. Trophy rainbow trout fishing on the Kenai River starts June 11 and fishes into October. Over four months of great fishing gives you plenty of options and opportunities to create the Alaskan fishing trip of your dreams. Be sure to book early as peak dates for salmon and rainbow trout fill fast.

Fishing Locations on the Kenai Peninsula

Turquoise glacial water, mountain vistas, vast forest expanses, wild salmon, native rainbow trout, and a bounty of wildlife, this is Kenai Peninsula fishing. Whether you are an expert or beginner angler, want salmon or rainbow trout, fly fish or spin fish, the Kenai & Kasilof Rivers will exceed your expectations. May – October offer 3 species of salmon and trophy rainbow trout to fish for, the options of when and what to target are as epic as the fish swimming in the river. Let the experts at Alaska Drift Away Fishing help you design your ultimate Kenai Peninsula fishing trip.

Alaska Fishing by Month

Each month in the Alaska fishing season offers different guided fishing trips as fish species and numbers ebb and flow in line with the changing seasons. Click below to find out more about each month of the fishing season in Alaska.

Fishing in May

Fishing in June

Fishing in July

Fishing in August

Fishing in September

Fishing in October

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Mailing: PO Box 652, Sterling, AK 99672

Physical: 35930 Janota Circle, Soldotna, AK 99669

Trip Departures: Izaac Walton State Park Boat Launch Sterling, AK 99672

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +1 907-529-8776.

Sport Fishing Guide Service

                      Homer, Alaska                        

River Bank Fishing Alaska's 

Kenai Peninsula & Katmai National Park  

Taking Bookings for the

2024 Season !

Call 907-299-7121

Specializing In:

Guided River Bank Fishing

Drift Boat Fishing

    Hike-In Fishing   

Fly-In Fishing

Fly Fishing Float Trips

Anchor River

Fishing Report         

2024 Prices

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Anchor River Steelhead Guides

At Alaska Fly Fishing Tours we would like to make your Alaskan fishing vacation a dream come true!  Create unforgettable memories you will treasure for life.  Imagine yourself, wading in a pristine Alaskan river, fly-fishing for Trophy Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic Grayling, Steelhead or Pacific Salmon.  We specialize in Guided River Bank Fishing Trips , Drift Boat Fishing Trips , Fly-In Fishing Trips , Hike-In Fishing Trips , and Fly-Fishing Float Trips , all with easy access to rivers on the Kenai Peninsula, Kachemak State Park, and Katmai National Park.    Owner/Guide, Grant Anderson , has successfully been catching world class fish in Alaska since 1992, and has a lifetime of experience fishing and guiding all over North America.  Our professional and patient guide staff will teach you all you need to know, give personal attention, keep you safe and help the novice fisherman catch them like a pro.   Regulations are detailed and can change from year to year. You can be confident our guides know all the regulations, aware of any changes and promote local etiquette. River Bank Fishing Trips offer a true angling experience, enjoying the true beauty of Alaska, and staying away from the big crowds.  If you desire to come up to Alaska and go fishing without spending all day in a boat, try our Full Day or Half Day Guided River Bank Fishing Trips on some of the most pristine waters in the world.  Fishing is a great family activity for the day, with no experience required. Our clients range from the advanced fly fisherman to a novice beginner.  We suggest you bring your own gear if possible.  All gear can be provided if needed, including: fly rods/reels, flies, tackle, and hip boots or waders.  It will help us if we know your boot size and your fishing experience to match you with a guide and location.    Alaska Fly Fishing Tours is located in Anchor Point, Alaska, on the Kenai Peninsula, near Homer, Alaska.  We provide guided fishing on the “World Class” Anchor River, just 15 miles from Homer, AK, as well as other rivers in the area including: Deep Creek, Ninilchik, Kasilof, Kenai, and Humpy Creek.  The Anchor River has a great King Salmon run in May/June and awesome Silver and Steelhead fishing in the fall.  Located southwest of Homer across Cook Inlet, Katmai National Park offers unlimited opportunities for fishing, rafting, and sometimes bear viewing at the same time.  Rivers we fish in Katmai are the Alagnak, American, Moraine Creek, and many others.  The Alagnak River has one of the largest Sockeye Salmon runs and produces excellent Rainbow Trout fishing.  Custom float trips are available up to 3-10 day trips.  Fly-In Fishing Trips are for those who want the out in the bush experience.  Thank you for spending the time to visiting the Alaska Fly Fishing Tours, Sport Fishing Guide Service web site. Give us a call or email for more information, to book a reservation or just to talk about fishing in Alaska.   Guided River Bank Fishing * New Extended Day Trips $350 (8 Hours)   Full Day Guided Fishin g  $300   (6 Hours)   Half Day Guided Fishin g  $200   (3-4 Hours) Drift Boat Fishing Kenai River $350 per person Kasilof River $350 per person   Book your Trip Today! 907-299-7121   Guides Fly Box Map Room Photo Gallery Weather and Information                  We welcome all Veterans and especially anyone with a disability or handicapped!   “Put Me in Coach” is our attitude!   No Limitations Here!     The Fly Box “The Fly Box” Anchor Point, Alaska Locally Hand Tied Flies     “Alaska Fly Fishing Tours’ Sport Fishing Guide Service is located at The Fly Box Tackle Shop Our Meeting Place for most of our River Bank Fishing Trips River Bank Fishing Kenai Peninsula Anchor River, Deep Creek, Kenai River, Kasilof River, Ninilchek River and others. . Float Trips Katmai National Park/Preserve Alagnak River, Moraine Creek, American River, and many more ... Bristol Bay Area Goodnews River, Togiak River, Kwethluk River and others… Fly Fishing Float Trips     Please inquire by phone or email for cost ! Float Trips and Fly-In Trips need advance booking.   Alaska’s Premier Float Trips in the Bristol Bay area and Katmai N.P. Please take time to look at Alaska Rainbow Adventures web site at http://www.akrainbow.com/   Map Room   Anchor River South Central Alaska Kachemak Bay Kenai Peninsula   Fishing Information Rainbow Trout Pacific Salmon   Arctic Grayling Dolly Varden Steelhead   Photo Gallery        Please send us your pictures from your trip to put on the website. * Weather and Information * Check the Weather for your Route, Road Conditions, Earthquake & Volcano Activity, Mileage Chart, Morris Code Chart   Anchor River Tides Anchor River NWS Hydrograph Anchor River. King Salmon Count   Anchor River Map   Buy Fishing License Online   Kenai Peninsula Fish & Game Emergency Orders   907-299-7121 Alaska Fly Fishing Tours Sport Fishing Guide Service P.O. Box 1930 Homer, AK 99603                            Email Us   At - [email protected]                                                                                                                                                         Fly Box - Fishing Information – Drift Boat Fishing - Hike-In Fishing Trips - Fly-In Fishing - Fly Fishing Float Trips - Map Room - Photo Gallery – Prices -   Weather and Information   www.alaskaflyfishingtours.com                                   Anchor river fly shop, anchor river fly shop, anchor river fly shop, Anchor river fly shop Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop Anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop Anchor river fly shop Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop Anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop Anchor river fly shop Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop Anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop Anchor river fly shop Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop Anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop anchor river fly shop Anchor river fly shop Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Fly Shop, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide Service, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Anchor River Guide, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Fly Shop, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Steelhead Fishing, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides, Anchor Point Guides. Travel  to Alaska for a fishing or fly-fishing float trip has long been the dream of many anglers from all over the world. If you have dreams of trophy rainbow trout, arctic grayling, char or any of the five species of pacific salmon dancing on the end of your fishing line, you have found the right Alaska  fishing guide & outfitter to guide you to your dreams. homer Alaska homer Alaska fly fishing homer Alaska  I am sure that if an Alaska salmon or Rainbow trout-fishing trip is your dream, you are in the process of gathering tour information about the multitude of travel possibilities there are as you plan your trip to Alaska. A river bank fishing trip or Alaska fly fishing float trip with Alaska Fly Fishing Tours, Sport Fishing Guide Service is just one of many options available to you as you plan your Alaska salmon or rainbow trout fishing adventure. For this reason, I would like to invite you to look through the Alaska Fly Fishing Tours web site, if one of our guided river fishing trips, river bank fishing trips, fly fishing float trip or other fishing adventures are something that interests you great, let's fish Alaska together! Our staff of experienced Alaska float fishing guides and I will work hard to ensure you of a quality Alaska fishing trip, and a chance to catch a world class size rainbow trout or salmon. Traveling to Alaska Traveling To Alaska Traveling To Alaska Our tours include fishing trips in Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula, near Homer, Alaska, Travel to Alaska for fishing or fly-fishing float trip has long been the dream of many anglers from all over the world. If you have dreams of trophy rainbow trout, arctic grayling, char or any of the five species of pacific salmon dancing on the end of your fishing line, you have found the right Alaska fishing guide & outfitter to guide you to your dreams. homer Alaska homer Alaska fly fishing homer Alaska  I am sure that if an Alaska salmon or Rainbow trout-fishing trip is your dream, you are in the process of gathering tour information about the multitude of travel possibilities there are as you plan your trip to Alaska. A river bank fishing trip or Alaska fly fishing float trip with Alaska Fly Fishing Tours, Sport Fishing Guide Service is just one of many options available to you as you plan your Alaska salmon or rainbow trout fishing adventure. For this reason, I would like to invite you to look through the Alaska Fly Fishing Tours web site, if one of our guided river fishing trips, river bank fishing trips, fly fishing float trip or other fishing adventures are something that interests you great, let's fish Alaska together! Our staff of experienced Alaska float fishing guides and I will work hard to ensure you of a quality Alaska fishing trip, and a chance to catch a world class size rainbow trout or salmon. Traveling to Alaska Traveling To Alaska Traveling To Alaska  Our tours include fishing trips in Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula, near Homer, Alaska,

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Alaska Fishing Trips

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View top alaska fishing trips or browse our directory of 359 alaska fishing lodges, charters, guides and float trips to find your perfect alaska fishing trip.

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Lonely Plan-it: A fishing trip to Alaska

Apr 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Bird Creek in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains is lined with fisherman hoping to catch silver salmon © Karen Timmons / Getty Images

For many Alaska visitors, the chance to drop a line in the briny depths of the ocean, or cast a fly rod upon a rushing river, is the reason they’ve traveled north – and for good reason. There is nothing quite like fresh fish – caught amid the stunning scenery of Alaska – consumed over a dinner table filled with tales of the day itself.

Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is its second-largest economic generator, with a wide variety of species found across the state. From mid-April to August, saltwater fishing vessels of varying sizes and shapes take to the sea and net or line-catch salmon, halibut, cod and other species for markets around the world. Sport fishing is also a huge business in Alaska, including the Arctic and Northwest regions, where species like Arctic char are considered a fly-fisher’s dream for their fight on a line. 

For these reasons, you’ll need to consider the seasons, types of fishing and the most accessible locations for your fishing holiday. In a state with 3,000 rivers, three million lakes, and over 6,000 miles of coastline, the toughest part is deciding where to go. 

What are the regulations for fishing in Alaska?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is the state’s overseeing agency for all things sport fishing, and it tightly controls where, when, and what species you can catch. Dividing the state into three regions (Southcentral, Interior, and Southeastern) the agency provides up-to-date listings of open and closed areas, and forecasts for salmon runs each spring, when many anglers are making  plans for fishing trips. 

All nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a current fishing license , available either online or at retail outlets in just about every city. Additionally, those wanting to fish for king salmon must secure a stamp indicating this intention, which is added to your license. It must be noted here that the ADF&G does not take fishing without a license lightly: officers are constantly patrolling shorelines and salt waterways – and fines for non-licensed fishers are hefty.

Know your halibut from chinook

It behooves the fishing visitor to have an idea of what type of fish they’d like to catch while in Alaska. Those looking for salmon have the choice to fish in either saltwater near Whittier, Seward, Valdez or Homer and nearby environs; or in the rivers and streams flowing near these communities, but also in Anchorage and along the Southwest regional areas like Dillingham and Katmai National Park. 

Know that the farther away from the road system one goes, the more expensive fishing will get, especially if you need a float plane to reach a river. Alaska's waters house five species of salmon: chum, sockeye, pink, chinook and coho. Each spawn at different times of year, beginning with chinook (also known as king salmon) in late spring.

Other freshwater fish include Arctic char, grayling and trout – the latter usually fished in September and October. 

Saltwater species are abundant and accessible in any harbor community, but halibut are predominant in the community of Homer at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula . In fact it is known as the “halibut capital of the world” with fish hauled in here reaching 200 pounds in weight. 

Best destinations for a DIY fishing trip

• Cast a line into the river for world-class salmon fishing on the Kenai River near Cooper Landing .
• Head out to deeper waters of Cook Inlet from Homer to fish for halibut. 
• Show up to Ship Creek in Anchorage and rent the entire kit to fish like a local. 
• Fly-fish the sparkling waters of the Little Tok River near the community of Tok, in the Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve.
• Try the family-friendly Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan for a look at the dangerous deep-sea crab industry.  

Top tips for fishing in Juneau

Located along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau is a great landing spot for Southeast fishers wanting to haul in a halibut or salmon. Charters depart from both downtown docks and Auke Bay about 15 miles from the city center. 

Where to stay: Spend the night downtown at the Silverbow Inn and take in the charm of Alaska’s capital city. 

Where to eat: For fresh seafood and local atmosphere, dine at the Hangar on the Wharf and watch floatplanes and ships come in and out. 

What to expect in Seward 

A popular destination for both cruise ship and independent travelers, Seward is also a hotspot for Anchorage residents looking for a weekend getaway. The calm waters of Resurrection Bay glean salmon, halibut, rockfish and cod and are great places for youngsters to learn the art of saltwater fishing. 

Where to stay: Harbor 360 hotel sits right at the small boat harbor and offers a complimentary breakfast and access to downtown Seward activities, including fishing charters.

Where to eat: The Cookery in downtown Seward is small but its menu of fresh seafood and produce packs a delicious punch. 

Visiting Valdez

This scenic Prince William Sound community lives hard by the sea, with daily salmon, halibut, and rockfish charters departing from its small boat harbor. Visit during the pink salmon run in early July and see the commercial purse seiners hauling up enormous nets of delicious fish.

Where to stay: Totem Hotel and Suites is a good option and a short distance from the downtown docks. 

Where to eat: Try The Fat Mermaid for locally-sourced seafood right along the main street of Valdez and within walking distance to activities.

Remote fishing experiences in Alaska

If a remote fishing experience is on your bucket list and within budget, these lodges provide a truly immersive once-in-a-lifetime Alaska fishing trip. 

Waterfall Resort

Located on scenic Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, this homey lodge is reached via a 45-minute floatplane ride from Ketchikan and offers pristine scenery while fishing for salmon in the calm waterways around the island. This former salmon cannery-turned fishing lodge is a wonderful choice for groups and families. 

Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge

A luxury resort located near one of the most productive sockeye salmon waterways in Alaska, the Kvichak River, this lodge is for serious fishers, with daily guided forays into the wilderness to cast a line. Want to fly fish for trout? This is the place for that as well, with large fish regularly caught and released. 

Tordrillo Lodge

Want to throw in some other adventures while still finding time to fish? This hidden lodge deep in the Tordrillo Mountains just an hour floatplane ride from Anchorage is pretty much perfect, with salmon and trout fishing intermingled with heli-skiing, hiking, and rafting. 

Be bear aware

Alaska’s bears frequent the same fishing rivers and streams as humans, and they always have the right of way. If you are fishing without a guide, review the Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and guidelines for fishers , and always keep an eye out for bears, especially if fishing in the long, dusky Alaska evening hours. 

What to pack for your fishing trip to Alaska

If taking a charter vessel, dress for inclement weather and a near-constant day of wetness and fish scales. Wear rubber boots, or non-slip, close-toed shoes – and bring rain gear, a warm hat and gloves. 

For those heading out into the open waters of Prince William Sound or the Gulf of Alaska, consider pre-dosing with an anti-seasickness medication or wearing a behind-the-ear patch to prevent nausea during the trip. Even the most ardent sailors sometimes feel the rolling ocean swells to be too much to manage without medicine. 

For river fishers, waders are a must, and non-felt wading shoes. 

Don’t have gear? There’s no need to worry: most guiding outfits provide everything you need for a comfortable experience. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Alaska:

The best time to go to Alaska? Save this guide on when to visit .  Get around in Alaska with these  transport tips .  Be sure to add these top experiences to your Alaska itinerary. And make time for some epic road trips  to the highlights in Alaska.

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Inspired by Experience

Welcome to your alaskan adventure.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska Guided Fishing Charter

Hoonah fishing trips & guided tours options and rates.

At Edgewater Outfitter’s our exclusive excursions feature a maximum of six clients per trip to ensure each guest gets the attention they deserve while having the best experience possible.

Fishing Trips

Choose Either a 4 Hour Group Stream Fishing Trip or Select a 4 Hour Private Executive Excursion

Wild Alaskan Bear Tours

4 Hour Private Bear Search Tour

YOUR ALASKAN EXPERIENCE

An icy strait point fishing trip that's simply unforgettable..

For your guided fishing trip near Juneau, Alaska, each angler is equipped with their own rod, reel, waders and wading gear, before being professionally guided in an Alaskan wilderness experience of a lifetime.

The salmon rich streams are easily accessed by forest service and old logging roads that wind throughout Chichagof Island. After a beautiful scenic drive and a short hike, you will arrive at the destined salmon spawning grounds for some of the best salmon fishing in Alaska.

Transportation is provided with a Chevy Suburban LTZ to make the experience as easy, fun and comfortable as possible. The scenic drive through Hoonah, Alaska make this a drive to remember.

*Prices do not include the local 6.5% sales tax.

*If a tour is not booked PRIVATE there is a chance of additional guests on the tour.

*For all fishing trips an Alaska fishing license will also need to be purchased, for as low as $15 per day, from the State of Alaska.

Visit https://store.adfg.alaska.gov to purchase your daily license.

MEET CAPTAIN REMO

Captain David “Remo” Riemenschneider has over 30 years of fishing, hunting and outdoor adventure experience. Remo was born to fish and the only thing that he enjoys more now, is sharing this passion and experience of the outdoor world with others.

He grew up in the small town of Cuero in South Texas fishing the regions lakes, rivers and the bays of the Gulf of Mexico. Remo’s had his Captain’s License, Master 100 Ton, since 2011 and has been taking people on fishing and hunting excursions since he was 16 years old. He’s spent summers as a sport fishing, hunting and adventure tour guide in different areas of SE Alaska since 2017 and finally founded Edgewater Outfitter’s in 2022 in beautiful Hoonah.

At Edgewater Outfitter’s every stranger is a friend and even on the slowest days while guiding, Remo works hard to ensure his clients have the trip of a lifetime.

WHAT SPECIES WILL YOU BE FISHING FOR?

Southeast Alaska boasts one of the richest salmon fisheries in the world. Edgewater Outfitter’s guides our clients to streams and rivers that contain large populations of silver, pink and chum salmon, as well as dolly varden and cutthroat trout.

Edgewater Outfitter’s is committed to extensive conservation efforts and supports catch and release practices to ensure these fisheries survival for generations to come.

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE NOW

Talk to Captain Remo or go ahead and book your wild Alaska Excursion today!

Immerse yourself in wildlife, connect with nature, and be inspired by your experience with a stream fishing tour that will leave you in awe!

In the meantime, you can follow all the adventures on our social media so be sure to follow us and start getting excited for the adventure that awaits!

View this profile on Instagram Edgewater Outfitters (@ edgewater_outfitters ) • Instagram photos and videos

Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures

Tours in Fairbanks, AK

Buying a gift card is a great way to gift a bucket-list experience!

TOUR FAIRBANKS ALASKA WITH OUR EXPERT GUIDES!

We offer prime fishing, wilderness, snowmobile, Northern Lights (Aurora) viewing, and dog sled tours in Fairbanks, Alaska! Rain or shine, we have made Alaska’s wild waters accessible since 1991!

• Hour Glass 6-10 hours

Float Fishing Trips – Chena River

Our Fairbanks wilderness float fishing trip offers both beginners and experts a fantastic all-day spin or fly fishing trip on the clear waters surrounding Fairbanks!

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Scenic Wilderness River Float Tour – Chena River

Enjoy some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities for moose, bald eagles, beavers, spawning Alaskan king salmon, and more!

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Delta Clearwater Trophy Arctic Grayling – Day Trip

Get on board! A fishing trip you won’t forget on this beautiful Alaskan river, famous for its crystal clear waters and huge Arctic grayling! Book your spot on this sought-after Interior Alaskan fishing adventure!

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Trophy Northern Pike Fishing

This is a Northern Pike Fishing Expedition to one of the best pike habitats in Alaska with specimen up to 40 inch in length possible.

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Pike Fishing: Quick and Easy

Dive into Northern Pike fishing along our local rivers and lakes on this quick and easy fishing tour in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Whiskey on the Fly

Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures in cooperation with Arctic Harvest Distillery have designed a special tour to brighten up your vacation!

ABOUT ALASKA FISHING AND RAFT ADVENTURES

Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures is the first choice for local year-round Alaska fishing trips and river rafting guide services. We specialize in guided fly fishing tours, float fishing, scenic river trips, winter ice fishing, dog sledding, snowmobile tours and Aurora Ice fishing tours in Alaska. We have a long history of not just guiding rafting trips on the Chena and Chatanika Rivers but many river systems including multi-day fishing trips to some of Alaska’s most remote wild rivers. We employ the best fishing guides and rafting instructors in Interior Alaska for fly fishing, spin fishing, ice fishing, and wildlife adventures on most of the fabled lake and river systems of our Interior region. Our guides are avid outdoor experts and have explored and fished or hunted in the most remote and wildest areas of Alaska. We permit and provide access to many of Fairbanks’ and Interior Alaska’s most beautiful and productive rivers including the Chena and Chatanika Rivers, Delta Clearwater Creek, Gulkana River, Talachulitna, Beluga Lake, Minto Flats, as well as Western Alaskan rivers and countless local lakes such as Quartz Lake, Birch Lake, Chena Lakes, Fielding Lake, and more. We offer fully outfitted half-day, full-day, overnight camping, fairbanks tours, and multi-day float and hike-in Alaska fishing trips and wilderness viewing tours, as well as winter outdoor adventures. Join us in exploring Alaska’s waters!

EXPERIENCE THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Activities tailored around your testimonials.

Fly fishing trip on Clearwater Creek near Delta Junction. Our guide was extremely helpful. He took us to a mayfly hatch where we caught a ton of arctic grayling. He was very good at coaching and getting us into great spots along the river, mentoring us on grayling tips and behavior, and was very polite.

We caught a TON of Grayling with Mike. He really knows where to find the fish and is a really great guy overall! If you’re not having a good time fishing with Mike, you probably don’t know how to live!

I enjoyed my first guided trip so much, even as a local, that I took my mom out when she came to visit for a fall fishing trip. The scenery was beautiful, Mike our guide was excellent. We caught tons of grayling on spin casters and fly rods. It was a great day, highly recommended!

Full day on the Chena river. We caught lots of fish and had a good time. I even managed to catch a couple of fish on a fly. Scenic surroundings. We brought our own lunch which is the only way to get what you really want.

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Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge

Access by commercial air is necessary to King Salmon, Port Heiden, Kodiak and Cold Bay, and then charter aircraft to the remote locations of Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is along the southeastern two-thirds of the Alaska Peninsula, encompassing the Aleutian Range. All five species of Pacific salmon are available in the freshwater streams and lakes, plus Arctic char, rainbow and lake trout, grayling, Dolly Varden, northern pike and burbot. Saltwater species include flounder and halibut. The refuge includes numerous ponds, lakes, rivers, streams and estuaries. Refuge fishing is year-round.

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20 Must-Do Experiences in Alaska

By Diana Hubbell

Last updated: April 29th, 2024

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When contemplating your “must do in Alaska” bucket list, bear in mind that there is no place on Earth like the 49th state. Alaskans like to call their home the Last Frontier, a phrase that still fits. After all, this is a state more than twice the size of Texas, but with less than a million residents.

Much of the land is all but untouched by humans and instead inhabited by an incredible array of wildlife. This is one of the few places where you can see humpback whales breaching near calving glaciers, or bald eagles hunting wild salmon.

The Alaskans who do live here tend to embody the fiercely unconventional, pioneer spirit of their Gold Rush-era prospector predecessors. This has long been a place where people have chosen to live according to their own rules, in some cases off the grid altogether. Travelers here will find warm hospitality, avant-garde art, and an infectious sense of adventure.

From seeing the Northern Lights to flying over the Arctic Circle, here are just a few of the must-see in Alaska experiences to plan.

Go Dog Sledding in Seward

Dog sledding in Seward

In January 1925, a diphtheria outbreak was sweeping through Nome, Alaska, threatening the lives of all the local inhabitants. The frigid winter conditions rendered many forms of transportation treacherous or downright impossible.

The outlook was grim until a team of brave dog sledders traveled hundreds of miles carrying diphtheria antitoxin, a life-saving serum.

Almost a full century later, locals in Alaska still commemorate this courageous event with the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Each year, teams of mushers zoom 1,000 miles over snowy terrain with their trained Alaskan malamutes, Samoyeds, and Siberian huskies.

Although technology may have advanced since the 1920s, dog racing in Alaska is much more than a sport. National park rangers often use teams of dogs to reach off-road spots in winter.

Whether you’re a dog parent or simply an animal lover, it’s hard to think of a better way to spend an afternoon than hanging with these charismatic canines.

In the coastal town of Seward , visitors can tour the racing kennels and snuggle up to puppies. Afterward, you’ll board a custom wheeled sled for a two-mile ride from Seavey Homestead to Resurrection Mountain.

Read: Where to Go Dog Sledding in Alaska

Get Your Heart Racing on the World’s Largest ZipRider

ZipRider in Icy Strait Point Photo by Werner Bayer on Flickr, licensed under CC0 1.0

If you’re the kind of person who instinctively heads straight for the tallest, fastest, most terrifying roller coaster at an amusement park, the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point should be right up there on you “must do in Alaska” list.

But even if you’re not a hardcore adrenaline-junkie, it just might be, too. Since groups of six can tackle this Alaskan adventure together, it makes for a great family bonding activity.

Situated in Icy Strait Point, this ZipRider is the biggest on the planet, featuring six 5,330-foot lines. Over the course of the ride, travelers plummet 1,330 feet at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Taking the initial plunge off the first platform is admittedly daunting and may challenge even the most steadfast of nerves.

Icy Strait Point

Once you’re whizzing 300 feet over the temperate rainforest canopy, however, the ride is pure pleasure. It helps that the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Keep an eye out for the icy peaks of the Fairweather Range in Glacier National Park in the distance.

While the ZipRider itself is obviously the high point, the journey to get there is an adventure in and of itself.

Drivers keep the bus ride from Hoonah interesting with all sorts of anecdotes and informational tidbits about the area. Take a window seat if you can; bears and other large mammals have a tendency to wander through the area.

Read: Best Zip Lines in the World

Go Whale Watching in Point Adolphus, Icy Strait

Humpback whale in Point Adolphus, Icy Strait Point

A warning: whale watching in Alaska may ruin you for doing it just about anywhere else. Whereas in some places, a stray tail fin sighting may be cause for celebration, Alaskan waters are teeming with marine life.

Among the many possible places to see cetaceans, Point Adolphus in Glacier Bay National Park ranks among the very best. These nutrient-dense waters toward the southern tip of Icy Strait draw large marine mammals of all kinds.

Each year, humpback whales migrate more than 10,000 miles from the warm waters of Hawaii in the winter to Alaska in the summer . Although these majestic giants were once critically endangered, more than 20,000 now swim here. As a result, this is a terrific place to watch humpback calves breaching and adults flashing their tails.

Travelers can expect to see plenty of other species on a whale-watching expedition here. Pods of both resident and transient orcas can often be spotted hunting here. Dall’s porpoises have a tendency to leap alongside boats and play the wake.

Read: How to Spot Marine Mammals From a Cruise Ship

Try a Traditional Alaskan Salmon Bake in Juneau

Alaskan salmon bake, Juneau

Wild salmon have been central to the Alaskan way of life for thousands of years. As a part of the local ecosystem, these fish are crucial. They provide a primary source of nutrition for everything from grizzly bears to bald eagles .

Indigenous Alaskan nations trapped and preserved salmon for generations before European colonists arrived. And when prospectors swarmed the state in a frenzied search for gold, wild salmon were a main source of sustenance.

Today, Alaskan salmon are prized throughout the world for their rich, fatty, exceptionally flavorful meat. It’s also a rare success story when it comes to seafood sustainability. Thanks to decades of careful population management, wild Alaskan salmon is a treat travelers can enjoy with a clean conscience.

For a uniquely Alaskan experience, try an Alaskan salmon bake in Juneau . Traditionally, salmon bakes are community affairs, much like a Midwestern fish fry. The word “bake” is a bit of a misnomer, as the fish is actually slow-roasted over a live alderwood fire.

Visitors have feasted on Gold Creek Salmon Bakes in the temperate rainforest just outside Juneau for more than 30 years. Along the way to your meal, you’ll see a historic gold mine and hear tales of the region. The salmon bake includes a full spread with cornbread, potatoes, wild rice, and baked beans.

Learn All About Sea Creatures in Seward

Alaska SeaLife Center

For a chance to meet adorable sea otter pups, Steller sea lions, and other marine mammals, visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center is one of the best things to do in Seward . The facility actively promotes education for all ages, as well as ongoing research and animal rehabilitation.

Many visitors to the center head straight for the ringed seals and the spotted seals. With their immense eyes and playful dispositions, it’s not hard to see why these mammals capture attention. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other stars here, including ethereal clusters of moon jellies and the formidable red king crabs.

Don’t miss the chance to see a rare giant Pacific octopus. These hyper-intelligent cephalopods can grow to weigh more than 100 pounds and change color at will. Groups of up to six visitors can book a private encounter with these elusive creatures. During the 30-minute experience, travelers can help feed the octopus and learn about its fascinating biology.

Go on a Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour in Ketchikan

Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour, Ketchikan

Of all of Alaska’s prized wild seafood, no catch is more valuable, or dangerous to hunt, than crab. Red king crabs, which run slightly larger than their blue and gold counterparts, are still highly sought after.

These real-life sea monsters can grow to nearly six feet across and boast remarkably sweet, tasty meat. Dungeness crabs and snow crabs are also in high demand, although they tend to be smaller and are a somewhat more affordable delicacy.

For seafood lovers or anyone else fascinated by this world, the three-hour Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour is one of the best things to do in Ketchikan . Unlike many real crab-fishing expeditions, this one doesn’t involve risking life and limb—or your lunch.

F/V Aleutian Ballad, Ketchikan

The F/V Aleutian Ballad is a sturdy, solid steel vessel measuring over 100 feet in length and it sticks to the calm waters of the Inside Passage here. Passengers can expect smooth sailing on the open-air deck.

Along the journey, you’ll see crabs of enormous size being pulled from the water. Curious passengers are even allowed to touch these giant crustaceans. More often than not, traps will pull up other sea creatures, including octopuses.

All of these other ocean critters wind up onboard in temporary holding tanks where passengers can see them up close. Before the end of the voyage, they’re released unharmed back into the sea.

Sample Craft Beers in Anchorage

Alaskans tend to be known for their independence, their resourcefulness, and their refusal to adhere to convention. All of these qualities are pretty perfect for starting a craft brewery, which is perhaps why this sparsely populated state sports so many exceptional ones. The best Alaskan craft breweries take advantage of the state’s local ingredients, many of which are rare or wild.

The original here is Midnight Sun Brewing Co., which got its start back in 1995. Today, the Alaskan brewery is a well-established powerhouse with one of the best taprooms in town.

At any given time, The Loft offers 16 rotating draft beers, plus an extensive selection of bar food. The stars here are the boozy barleywines and imperial stouts. If you get a chance, try the heady Monk’s Mistress, an especially potent Belgian-style dark ale.

Glacier Brewhouse Photo by Anchorage Downtown Partnership on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Glacier Brewhouse is another one worth seeking out. Opened just a year after Midnight Sun Brewing Co., the brewery is particularly proud of its barrel-aging program. The constantly rotating selection of draft beers alone is worth checking out. It doesn’t hurt, though, that the brewhouse is one of the best places to eat in Anchorage .

The high-ceilinged, woodlined restaurant and taproom has a clear view of the craft brewery. Take a seat at the bar and dine on wild Alaskan seafood and pizzas made using an Old World rye sourdough starter.

See Wolves, Moose, & Other Wildlife Up Close

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Located an hour’s drive from downtown Anchorage , the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is one of the best chances to see the state’s charismatic megafauna. Note that this is not a zoo. Almost all of the animals here were orphaned or severely injured and could not survive on their own in the wild.

The center allows them to live out their days in spacious enclosures that closely mimic their natural habitats. Check the schedule for regular talks and educational programming.

Kids will love meeting feathered and furred characters like Snappy, a great-horned owl with a partially amputated wing, and Hugo, a grizzly bear found abandoned more than 20 years ago. Moose, elk, reindeer, wood bison, and muskox also roam these pastures. Of particular note is the small resident wolf pack, who love playing with animal handlers.

Spy on Bears in Lake Clark National Park

Lake Clark National Park

Alaska is known for being home to a vast array of wildlife, but perhaps none are more synonymous with the state than its bears.

The state boasts more than 140,000 of these highly intelligent mammals, including 98 percent of the American population of brown bears. For Alaskans, encounters with brown, black, and polar bears are simply a part of life.

Interestingly, brown bears and grizzly bears are the same species—the former simply inhabit coastal areas while the latter live in landlocked territory. Kodiak bears, meanwhile, are a subspecies of brown bear found exclusively in the Kodiak Archipelago. Black bears often coexist with brown bears, but are significantly smaller and usually less aggressive.

While travelers may very well inadvertently encounter a brown or black bear right in Anchorage, your chances are significantly higher just outside of the city. Lake Clark National Park, roughly an hour and a half drive out of town, is one of the best places to see bears in Alaska .

When snapping photos of brown or black bears, be sure to follow your guide’s safety precautions. In general, bears do not like to attack humans unless provoked. Nevertheless, these are incredibly powerful, wild animals that can run as fast as a horse.

When in bear country, either avoid carrying food or make sure it is tightly sealed. Bear cubs may look cuddly, but maintain a safe distance to avoid upsetting any protective mama bears.

Stroll Along the Homer Spit

Few places are more atmospheric than the Homer Spit on a gorgeous summer afternoon. This spindly peninsula stretches 4.5 miles into the icy waters of Kachemak Bay. The strip of land is so narrow that you’ll see water on both sides as you wander along the promenade.

In the backdrop, the snow-capped peaks of the Kenai Mountains loom. Overhead, birds of prey swoop and soar. Bald eagles are far more prevalent in Alaska than any of the lower 48 states and this is by far one of the best places to see them in the wild.

As spectacular as the surrounding scenery is, exploring the Homer Spit itself is one of the best things to do in Homer . Galleries, cafés, and eateries line virtually the entire peninsula. Homer has a famously bohemian streak, thanks to the many artists who have migrated here and made a home for themselves.

After poking around the local galleries, stop for brunch at La Baleine Café. Chefs Kirsten and Mandy Dixon pride themselves in sourcing organic ingredients from the Homer Farmer’s Market.

Order a “Musher Meal,” which the duo served to participants in the Iditarod Sled Dog Race for 30 years. It’s a hearty plate of reindeer sausage, eggs, Manchego, and salsa on corn tortillas.

Walk Along a Glacier

Exit Glacier, Kenai Fjords National Park

There are estimated to be around 27,000 glaciers in Alaska , but many of these are all but inaccessible to humans. Luckily, there are a few key exceptions to this rule, which are a breeze to reach.

One of the most beautiful places in Alaska , the Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park is located a mere 15-minute drive from downtown Seward.

For generations of mountaineers, this massive, flowing expanse of ice has served as an entry point to the sprawling Harding Ice Field. Yet even without technical climbing equipment, visitors can easily walk the Glacier View Loop. This well-maintained, one-mile trail offers incredible photo-ops of Exit Glacier and is manageable for all levels of hikers.

Mendenhall Glacier

Another stunning glacier that makes for an ideal afternoon trip is the 13-mile Mendenhall Glacier. Located an easy 12-mile drive from downtown Juneau, this tidewater glacier is accessible by kayak or by road. As a bonus, the visitor center goes above and beyond with top-notch exhibits.

Board the White Pass Railway

White Pass Railway

The White Pass Summit Excursion near Skagway is arguably one of the most stunning rail journeys in the world. The vintage train cars hug the sides of the mountain for virtually the entirety of the two-and-a-half hour round-trip sojourn. The views are something every visitor interested in both history and scenery must see in Alaska.

As you wind along sheer slopes, it’s hard not to think of the brave workers who risked life and limb to build the route in the first place. At the onset of the Klondike Gold Rush, the routes into Alaska’s vast interior were treacherous. Neither the Chilkoot Trail nor the White Pass Trail were safe for the tens of thousands of miners pouring into the area.

Michael J. Heney, a railroad builder with the grit and the chops to take on such a challenge, joined up with Sir Thomas Tancrede, who had investor connections. In 1898, construction on one of the most difficult rail construction projects known to man began. At one more, around 2,000 men were working here to lay track as fast as possible.

Pan for Gold in Fairbanks

Gold panning in Gold Dredge 8, Fairbanks

Alaska’s Gold Rush history may have only lasted a little over three years, but it forever changed the state. From 1896 to 1899, more than 100,000 prospectors headed north to seek their fortune.

Many would return home penniless, while a few struck it rich. In the process, a network of boom towns sprung up to accommodate the miners. Some likened it to the Wild West, a quasi-lawless period of big dreams and grand adventures.

Gold Dredge 8, Fairbanks

Even after the initial fervor subsided, people continued to search for gold in these lands. The Goldstream Dredge No. 8 was a mining operation in Fairbanks from 1929 to 1959. Today, this carefully preserved historic site allows visitors to learn all about the past.

Along the way, you’ll hear true stories of the larger-than-life figures who once populated this place. At the end of the tour, visitors can even try their hand at panning for gold. More than a few have walked away with a very valuable Alaskan souvenir .

Marvel at the Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest

As the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world, the Tongass National Forest is a marvel. Wandering along the hiking trails here, it’s possible to imagine a time before humans reshaped their surrounding landscape.

The rainforest covers more than 11,000 miles of Alaska’s southern coastline. Just about everything everywhere you look in here is alive. Ancient Sitka spruce, alder, hemlock, and yellow and red cedar trees form a dense, verdant canopy. Meanwhile, the forest floor is vivid green with ferns, moss, and other vegetation.

It’s possible to enter the rainforest at many points, but the trails around Juneau are particularly well-maintained.

Keep an eye out for both brown and black bears, both of which thrive here. Salmon run through the streams in season, which means there are a number of places to watch bears hunting in preparation for winter. Shy Sitka deer also regularly flash through the trees and lucky visitors may even spot a wolf.

Go Fly Fishing in Denali

Fly fishing

Even if you’ve never tried your hand at fly fishing, Alaska is a great place to start. The state boasts pristine streams with healthy fish populations. That means that even relative novices have an excellent chance of snagging a trophy-worthy catch.

Denali National Preserve, adjacent to the Alaskan national park itself, allows for sport fishing and is a great place to start. Note that in order to go fishing, you’ll need a non-resident fishing permit. Luckily, these are easily obtainable and guides on organized fly fishing trips will typically pick one up for you.

One of the best places to fish in Alaska , travelers can expect to haul in trout and wild salmon in this area depending on the season. Fly fishing here tends to be catch-and-release—although locals can and do eat their catch. Even if you’re not planning to cook and clean your catch, you can still pose for a killer photo with it.

Learn About the History of the Alaskan First Nations

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Thousands of years before European colonists arrived on Alaskan shores, Indigenous people fished, foraged, farmed, and hunted on these lands. The languages and traditions of Alaskan First Nations are still a vital part of life in this region. More than 20 percent of the state’s population identifies as Alaska Native to this day.

There are all sorts of ways to learn more about First Nations including the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. One of the best things to do in Anchorage is to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which offers insights into the sophisticated strategies Indigenous people once used to survive Alaska’s harsh climate. First opened in 1999, the center delves into the past and present of 11 distinct cultural groups.

Yet as fascinating as the history of the First Nations may be, it’s important to remember that these Alaskan cultures are evolving with each new generation. Juneau, in particular, has become a hotbed of contemporary Alaskan Indigenous art. At the city’s state-of-the-art Sealaska Heritage Arts Campus, artists reinterpret traditional crafts such as textile weaving and wood carving.

Catch a Glimpse of Mount Denali

Mount Denali

Standing a staggering 20,310 feet above sea level, Mount Denali is the highest mountain in all of North America.

In 1897, the peak was renamed Mount McKinley by a gold prospector by the name of William Dickey in honor of a U.S. president. In 2016, this Alaskan mountain was officially rechristened Mount Denali, which means “Great One” in the Alaskan Native Koyukon language.

“Great One” feels like an apt moniker for this mighty summit. The sight of its snowy summit and glaciers catching the sunlight is truly something wondrous to behold. Unfortunately, very few people can claim to have seen it. The mountain is so massive that it tends to create its own weather patterns, meaning that the summit is often veiled by clouds.

Travelers and locals fortunate enough to see the mountain in all its glory often refer to themselves as part of the “10% club”—or 30% club, depending on who asks. Either way, it’s a rare and privileged minority. Though the chances may be slim, a clear shot of Mount Denali is special enough to warrant trying your luck.

See the Northern Lights From Fairbanks

Northern Lights in Fairbanks

Witnessing the Northern Lights firsthand is one of those ubiquitous bucket list items that is very much worth doing. The aurora borealis, as it’s also known, manifests as undulating sheets of luminous violet, blue, and emerald up in the northern night sky.

Part of its allure lies in its elusive nature. Although it’s possible to monitor the conditions to find times when the probability of seeing the Northern Lights is highest, no one can predict them with complete certainty.

There may never be a guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights, but Fairbanks, Alaska , offers some of the best odds anywhere of catching this breathtaking sight. At 65 degrees north latitude, this is one of the closest bastions of civilization to the Arctic Circle.

During the late summer nights, when there is some darkness, the chances of seeing colors dance across the Milky Way are fairly high.

Ride ATVs in Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park

Rugged, wondrous Denali National Park is one of the best places to visit in Alaska to see some of North America’s megafauna out in the wild.

The park itself is home to 169 species of birds , plus 39 species of mammals, including many of Alaska’s most iconic favorites. Both brown grizzly bears and black bears forage in these woods and fish in the park’s streams. Moose, caribou, and elk all graze here. Eagle-eyed visitors will often see herds of snow-white Dall’s sheep clambering along sheer rock faces.

The area is also one of the few places travelers have a good chance of seeing wolves in the wild. Although gray wolves can be found in many parts of North America, these intelligent predators often tend wisely to steer clear of humans. At one point, these creatures had been hunted to near extinction.

The more biologists study them, the more they have come to realize how crucial wolves are to a healthy ecosystem. Denali National Park is one of the few places where the population is substantial enough that fortunate travelers might see these creatures roam.

Part of the reason wildlife thrives here is the relative lack of paved roads and other hallmarks of human civilization. That means that visitors looking to explore the national park and nearby preserve have limited transportation options. Inside the park, guided bus tours and park shuttles run along a single, winding road towards the mountain itself and back.

To get off the group bus, you’ll need a sturdy, all-terrain vehicle and an experienced guide. An ATV ride offers an unbeatable opportunity to get off the main drag and see Alaskan animals . It’s also a thrilling adventure in and of itself.

Fly to the Arctic Circle

Flightseeing in Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle is one of the most surreal places on planet Earth. This northernmost latitude is home to the midnight sun and the polar night on the summer and winter solstices. On the former, the sun never sets for 24 hours; on the latter, it never rises.

The far northern city of Fairbanks is less than 200 miles from the Arctic Circle, but the land journey is not for the faint of heart. Around 75 percent of the road there is unpaved and there are few signs of human civilization along the way.

While intrepid travelers with camping gear still make the trek, travelers who are pressed for time may wish to opt for a faster and far more scenic route. Flightseeing is one of the best things to do in Alaska , and round-trip flights from Fairbanks can whisk passengers to the Arctic Circle and the Brooks Mountain Range in a matter of hours.

Along the way, you’ll see the Yukon River glinting majestically in the sun, not to mention miles and miles of some of the last true remaining wilderness.

There’s simply no better way to experience all the wonder of the Last Frontier than aboard a cruise with Celebrity. Browse our upcoming Alaska cruises and book your next great adventure today.

Diana Hubbell

Diana Hubbell has been covering food and travel for publications including The Guardian, The Washington Post, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, VICE, Architectural Digest, The Independent, Eater, and Atlas Obscura for more than a decade. Although she is currently happy to call New York City home, she previously lived in Berlin and Bangkok.

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11 Things Tourists Should Never Do When Visiting Alaska

A laska continues to fascinate visitors from around the world. Not quite as rugged as visiting the Arctic, Alaska is still wildly wild. For instance, this mountainous state houses 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the U.S. Unbridled wilderness can make traversing the land difficult if you don't know the area well, making Alaskan travel plans more detail-oriented than other itineraries.

Despite the often cold temperatures and, at times, tumultuous terrain, Alaskan tourism remains a considerable part of the state's economy. In fact, per the Resource Development Council , one in 10 jobs in Alaska is in the tourism industry. Plus, one in three travelers to Alaska is a return visitor, so something about the place leaves a big impression on those who see it. Whether it's the almost unparalleled wildlife, the people, or the nonstop access to fresh seafood, Alaska has a way of making visitors fall in love with it.

While many visit The Last Frontier for the adventure, there are also many cultural touchstones. Because these realities co-exist, there are a handful of things visitors (especially first-timers) need to know about Alaska, especially when it comes to what to avoid. Not only are these tips helpful for travel planning, but they'll also make you a responsible tourist in a new place.

Read more: This Is What You Should Never Do When You Travel

Ignore The Notion Of Leave No Trace

Alaska is a beloved travel destination in part because of its absolute wilderness. However, that majestic natural beauty can't be maintained if visitors don't follow the protocols of "leave no trace." That means leaving things as they are, not taking things with you from nature, and not leaving trash or damaging the natural environment. Yes, that means not taking plants, shells, or anything else you find outside.

This idea of "leave no trace" also applies to more practical parts of being a traveler. For example, if you've ever been hiking and see signs to stay on the trail to protect the ecosystem, that's part of this notion. When trails are established, they do so in a way that will do the least harm to their environment. So, if hikers roam wherever they want off-trail, they could be crushing vital native plant life or disturbing important nesting locations.

It is also essential for campers to pack up everything they bring with them to camp. Bring an extra bag to dispose of garbage properly away from the campsites. Litter can be dangerous or even deadly to wildlife. The Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation noted that two of the most common injuries it treats are litter-related. Animals are hit by cars (because they're busy investigating the litter), or they get trapped in the litter. Either way, these situations are easily avoided by correctly disposing of garbage.

Assume You Can See It All

Many first-time visitors to Alaska may think they can dash over to Denali from Juneau during a quick trip. Contrary to what maps would have you believe, Alaska is enormous. That trek from Juneau to Denali? It'll take up to 20 hours by car, including the ferries. Sure, it's doable, but you need to understand the mechanics of the trip before taking it. 

The three largest cities in the state are Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. So if you're in doubt about where to visit, start with one of them. You can decide on an area of Alaska you would like to see rather than hoping you can squeeze multiple regions into a week. Not only will that involve a ton of commuting and far less adventuring, but it will also be expensive traversing the state.

There are five regions in Alaska to choose from. For reference, Anchorage is in the Southcentral region, Juneau is in the Southeast, and Fairbanks is in the Interior. If you've never been to Alaska before, consider starting with Anchorage. As the largest city in the state, Anchorage has so much to do. It's also a terrific jumping-off point for different day trips if you want to get out and see more of nature, like the Portage Glacier.

Disengage With Native Culture

In Alaska, there are 228 federally recognized tribes of Alaska Natives or indigenous peoples. Statistically, about 19% of the total population of Alaska comprises native people, so there is a lot for visitors to learn about those tribes. Engage in the culture and return home with a greater understanding of Alaskans. If you disengage from such a vast part of the populace, you're missing out on many opportunities to learn and see the state.

Brendan Sainsbury at Lonely Planet suggested visiting the  Anchorage Museum or the  Alaska State Museum  to learn more about Alaska Natives. Both of those museums are in Juneau, the capital city of Alaska. He also noted to keep an eye out for totem poles to glean further insight into the lives of Alaska Natives.

"Viewing totem poles will also give you some insights into the Native culture of Alaska. Emblematic of the people of the southeast coast and British Columbia, these zoomorphic sculptures are loaded with cultural, historical and artistic significance," Sainsbury stated. "You'll find an abundance of totem poles in the southeastern panhandle, particularly in Ketchikan's Saxman Village and Totem Heritage Center, and Sitka's National Historical Park."

Forget That Alaska Is Part Of The U.S.

This one may sound silly to some, but it's not uncommon for tourists to assert that Alaska is a foreign land. It may be far removed from your home state, yet Alaska is still very much a part of the U.S. That's just one of many misconceptions about Alaska. A woman even went viral on  TikTok in 2023 because she thought the state was an island like Hawaii due to how it is shown on maps. It is not, in fact, an island, although it is frequently depicted as one on maps of the United States.

Don't go to Alaska and try to exchange your U.S. currency, ask people if they speak English, or in any way assume that the state is unlike the rest of the country. Don't make folks you encounter feel that they're being othered. And, no, Alaskan businesses don't accept loonies, toonies, or any form of Canadian currency. They may geologically be separated from the lower 48 states by Canada, but they still use the United States Dollar.

Underprepare For The Weather

Alaska is one of those places where the weather can change at the drop of a hat. The last thing you'll want is to be miles away from a shelter, stuck waiting out a rainstorm, or cut short outdoor activities because you didn't pack enough warm clothes. The best thing you can do is know what typical seasonal weather is for when you're going and packing around that. Remember that you can always wear or bring your coat or bulky sweater on the plane instead of shoving it into your over-full suitcase.

Valerie at Valerie & Valise , who grew up in Alaska, has a handy summary for seasonal weather. Summer has warmer temps; fall is still sunny with the potential for snow; winter offers the Aurora Borealis, and the shortest month of spring shows melting snow with increasing warmth. She also noted that  the summer months are the most popular for travelers in Alaska , while winter comes in at a close second.

Because the summer warm-up also brings rain, Valerie advised to be prepared for rainy weather. "My family joked growing up that the weather changes every five minutes in Alaska," she wrote. "So plan ahead: pack for rain. The worst thing that happens is that it sits in your suitcase for the whole trip!" Even something as simple as a portable poncho could save the day when in doubt. You don't have to pack a whole rainy-day ensemble; some fail safes will do.

Underestimate Wildlife

Most travelers know that they need to  keep an eye out for bears when hiking in Alaska's parks . But they might not realize that they may encounter myriad other animals that pose a threat, no matter how cute they are. Underestimating the danger of any wild animal, especially in Alaska, could put you in harm's way. Those dangers don't stop at big mammals either; there are 35 species of mosquitos in Alaska, believe it or not.

Nearly 30% of recorded bear attacks in the United States have occurred in Alaska. That statistic isn't meant to scare you, just to emphasize how disproportionately large the bear population is in The Last Frontier. Although they are friend-shaped, it's always best to keep a fair distance between you and any wildlife – particularly during the various breeding seasons. For the record, brown and grizzly bear mating season is from May to July. 

The National Park Service suggests a few ways to keep yourself and the wildlife safe during your time in nature. NPS says to stay at least 300 yards away from bears and 25 yards from everything else, including dens or nests. It also advises never to feed wildlife, even if they seem non-threatening, like a chipmunk or squirrel, because they can become food aggressive. Alaska has incredible wildlife that can be viewed safely. As always, be aware of your surroundings.

Book At The Last Minute

Travel writers often advise against  making the booking mistake of purchasing a trip too early – that isn't the case with Alaska. As a destination, Alaska is one of the places where you need to book well in advance or risk your hotel, activities, car rental, etc., options being limited. How far in advance you need to book depends on the trip you're planning, though. For example, you may want to book Alaskan cruises at least a year in advance, particularly if you want to save money on the trip.

In general, book at least four to six months in advance unless you're going in a big group, in which case a minimum of six months is recommended. If you plan on visiting during the busiest season (the summer), book hotels and tours as soon as possible. That said, you will have a bit more wiggle room if you're going to Alaska in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Not to mention that traveling during shoulder season is often much cheaper than going during peak tourist season.

Skimp On Tipping

It's never a good look to pinch pennies when tipping out at a restaurant or for a tour guide. That's doubly bad in a place like Alaska, where the cost of living can be sky-high. Its remoteness heavily impacts the price of everything from groceries to gas and everything in between. So, when planning an Alaskan trip, try to accommodate tipping at least 20%. Don't forget to tip your tour guides, luggage helpers, baristas, and bartenders, too.

The average cost of living in Alaska, across the board, is 30% higher than in the rest of the United States. The most inflated costs are monthly utilities at 46%, food at 40%, and healthcare at 49%, higher than the national average. Knowing that you might want to tip more generously than you may during your daily life. It's also worth knowing the higher costs anyway, as you could see those costs reflected during your trip. Whether you go grocery shopping or eat out at restaurants, the cost of goods might be higher than you're used to.

Especially as we deal with the dreaded tip fatigue, because so many less traditional places are now requesting tips, remembering to tip for good service can be cumbersome. Only about 80% of Americans always tip their waitstaff, according to 2023 data shared by the  Pew Research Center . Don't let tipping fatigue get in the way of thanking someone for their hard work!

Hit The Road Without A Plan

As previously mentioned, Alaska is enormous. When you  set out on an Alaskan road trip , you'll notice pretty quickly that there aren't a lot of areas to stop off at. Whether that's for getting gas or going to the bathroom, you'll need to be strategic about where you stop and how often you do so. Adam at Getting Stamped recommended driving in Alaska from May to September when there is more daylight and warmer road conditions. Driving in wintery Alaskan conditions can be tricky.

If you don't mind the sometimes treacherous weather Alaskan winter can bring, Adam had a few suggestions for how to venture safely. "If you are up for this adventure, ensure you are prepared and have a backup plan!" He wrote. "Always have extra gas with you. Gas stations along the Alaska Highway have very limited hours in the winter. Expect extreme cold temperatures. Make sure you have the appropriate cold-weather clothing and gear in your car." Driving can be a massive bonus to seeing as much Alaska as possible during a vacation. You must be aware of the road conditions and pack and plan accordingly.

Presume Everywhere Can Cater To Dietary Needs

This is not to say that restaurants and hotels aren't looking out for your best interest. This is another tip related to the remoteness of Alaska. Because fresh veggies or fruit can be harder to come by, folks like vegetarians may have a harder time finding dietary accommodations. If you're planning a trip and you have vegetarian or vegan restrictions, or any dietary needs for that matter, consider that if you are going to more rural parts of Alaska. Accommodating special diets will be even more complicated outside of major metropolitan areas.

When traveling with a tour group, especially if they are planning meals, be sure to inform them well in advance about any dietary restrictions. That includes allergies; they need to know how to keep everyone safe and fed. As a precaution, pack some easy-to-go snacks that fit your dietary needs. That way, you are still well-fed between meals and prepared if given some food options that won't work. After all, it's possible that a tour or group trip can't always accommodate dietary restrictions depending on where you are. Also, try to bring goods that don't require refrigeration or preparation to make your life easier.

Not Following Hunting And Fishing Protocols

Many Alaskans hunt for sustenance, with the fish or game they catch feeding themselves and their families. While many trophy hunters visit Alaska yearly, it's important to recognize the need for protocols to stop overhunting or overfishing – and stick to them. According to the Alaska Professional Hunters Association (APHA), non-Alaskans who want to hunt in the state may require a guide. Per the site, anyone who wants to hunt mountain goats, Dall sheep, or brown-slash-grizzly bears must have a guide with them. While it isn't required outside of those target parameters, the APHA also notes that a lot of game hunters who visit Alaska still choose to bring a guide anyway for their help.

It's also important to recognize that in parts of Alaska, whale hunting is not only legal but necessary for use in select communities for food and other byproduct uses. The Indigenous Inupiat and Siberian Yupik communities hunt whales under the very stringent regulations of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling. It is illegal for whale meat to be sold outside of the Alaska Native communities, too, so do not purchase it if you happen to see someone selling it.

Read the original article on Explore .

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