How to Make Your Alaska Float Fishing Trip Gratifying

If you're planning an Alaska float fishing trip, the key word is "planning." During peak season, quality lodges will book up fast and rates are high, but planning ahead can avoid both disappointment and excessive costs.

When you're planning an Alaska float fishing trip, the focus should be on the planning. Alaska sees over a million tourists every year and that means popular lodges book up fast, charters get reserved and you could get stuck without a seat.

So, plan ahead, book early and know the best places to be. To find out more on how to make your Alaskan fishing trip a hit, keep reading for tips on what to bring, the best season and where to stay.

What to Pack

Ideally, you want to pack clothes that will layer easily - keeping you prepared for hot sun, rainy days and cold nights. Choose a fabric like performance wool or a high-tech fabric that will wick away sweat, dry quickly if it gets wet and keep you warm at night.

Instead of packing every piece of oversized and heavy fishing gear that you own, call ahead to your lodge or tour company and see what types of equipment will be included in your package. You may still want to pack your favorite lures or gear, but most companies actually provide flies, lures, floats and other fishing supplies.

Finally, invest in high-quality rain gear. While Gore-Tex may seem like the best choice, it is actually only waterproof for about four to six hours. So, though PVC rain gear can be hot, clammy and uncomfortable, it will keep you dryer for a longer period of time on rainy days.

The Best Time to Go Float Fishing in Alaska

The peak season for float fishing in Alaska is the summer, so it's between the months of June and September. You'll likely have warm, if not rainy, weather, great fishing and easy pickings on the water. However, the summer is also prime tourism season, which is why it's so important to book ahead.

Great Locales for Fishing

The best fishing spots in Alaska are

* The Kenai River, a water known for its huge salmon
* The Copper River Delta, a river delta teeming with salmon and trout
* Bristol Bay, an angler's paradise and home to hundreds of remote lodges, and
* Kodiak Island, an island oasis that's remote, isolated and crammed with fish

It's hard not to have a successful Alaska float fishing trip, but with a little planning you can make any trip a great one. Just remember to hit the best fishing spots, go at the right time and pack appropriately. Also, always check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Fish Division before you book a lodge or charter company. Their website is available at sf.adfg.state.ak.us.

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