The Alaska Fishing Experience at
Glacier Bear Lodge, Yakutat Alaska
Alaska Wild Steelhead Fishing at Glacier Bear
Lodge
The Alaska salmon and halibut fishing here in Yakutat
is world class. The Situk River, just minutes away from Glacier
Bear Lodge boasts the biggest run of wild steelhead anywhere
in North America. Anglers from all over come here in April and May
to enjoy this catch and release fishery.
Alaska Sockeye, King Salmon, Pinks and Silvers
Again, the Yakutat Bay and the Situk River holds their
own as far these two species of Alaska salmon are concerned. The
Kings are in the salt water almost the entire season, and enter the
Situk River in June, along with the Sockeye. Most often King
Salmon occur in the 7 to 25 pound range, with occasional
specimens up to 40 pounds. The typical catch is 11 to 18 pounds
per fish. We can possibly
arrange a charter boat to troll for King Salmon in the salt water, and
the sockeye run into the Situk River is always a great time of the year
for light gear and fly rod fishing. Limits on these two species
vary, and are controlled by the fish counts of the Alaska Department
of Fish & Game.
Alaska Fishing Tackle and What to Bring Recommendations
Depending on the type of fishing you plan on doing (either
fly fishing or spinning rod), we recommend the following gear and tacke:
for spinning tackle fishing - at least 10 lb test line
for fly fishing - 8 weight rod, 8 weight line, float or sink-tip,
0x tippet
rain gear
lightweight waders and wading boots - Hodgeman makes a good brand,
as does Simms
Fishing vest and boots for walking and casual
shoes
Hip boots or neoprene waders for winter and spring and breathable
waders for summer as walking is a daily event and to stay cool you
will need breathable waders
Long Johns or other types of under garment are recommended as standing in the river even during the summer can
get cold
Good quality rain
gear, gloves, hat
Identification and/or passport
If you plan on going on a charter boat for halibut or rockfish, and are
prone to sea sickness, bring along
your favorite remedy - probably the most effective one is the patch
you can put behind your ear the night before your ocean trip. These
can be purchased through you local pharmacy and do require a prescription.
Check with your doctor.
Insect repellent - Mosquito repellent: The bugs generally aren't
as bad as people fear, and they're really only a big consideration
in June and July. If you really want to protect yourself, there's
nothing as effective as 100% DEET products. Mosquito head nets tend
to be overkill unless you plan on doing a lot of hiking or tent camping,
as they obscure visibility and can get warm.
Polarized glasses, waterproof
bag, hook sharpener, needle-nose pliers or hemostats, leader clippers,
knife, appropriate assortment of high quail swivels, weights, hooks,
new line, extra spools and reel oil or WD-40.
Small first aid kit: Most hotels and tour operators will have you covered, but it's convenient
to have Band-Aids and ointment for minor emergencies and blisters
Camera/video camera: Capture your Alaska experiences on film and
don't forget the extras: film, batteries, lenses, chargers, and memory
cards. NOTE: Pack film in your carry-on, rather than your checked luggage,
as new airport screening equipment could ruin it.
Zipper-top bags: Freezer-size zipper-top bags are great to keep clothing folded
and toiletries isolated (in case of leaks). Separate baggies make it
easier to repack in case your luggage is searched, and extra bags
are handy for storing dirty or damp clothing.
We recommend you purchase your flies and spinning
lures when you arrive at one of the local shops here,
as they will have what you need. If you would like us to plan a day
charter in the salt water for your group, we can arrange a charter
for you without much difficulty. Your charter boat will have
the tackle and rods onboard
needed to ensure you have a great day fishing while in their company.
Alaska Fishing Licenses are
not required for any person under the age of 16. Licenses
are required for salmon, trout, steelhead, halibut, rockfish and
razor clams. The cost of a non-resident fishing license varies ($20/1day,
$35/3day $55/7day, $80/14day) depending the length of your stay.
You may buy your license at Glacier Bear Lodge when you arrive, or
you may purchase
it online.
Additionally, if you plan on fishing
for King Salmon, a King Salmon Stamp is required.
You can call us toll free at
1-866-425-6343 and inquire on availability at Glacier Bear Lodge. Please visit
our book your adventure page
for more information.