How to Prepare for a Rainbow Trout Fishing Expedition While in Alaska

If you want to go rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to be. With its pristine wilderness and seemingly untouched waters, the fish are available in abundance.

If you love rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to go. The water is clear, the fish are jumping at your hooks and the scenery is absolutely stunning. However, prior to heading out on a major fishing expedition, please read on for some ideas and hints that will help your fishing trip go as smoothly as possible.

Be Aware of Your Fishing Seasons

Rainbow trout season in Alaska runs from June 15 to Oct 31 - however where the trout are running depends on the year and the river you select. For more information, you can ask your guide to help you find the best trout fishing spots, or you can consult the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

A Guide by Your Side

Hiring a guide will not only help keep you safe, but will also save your fishing trip. A guide can do a lot more than provide equipment and help you to navigate the Alaska waters - they can also point you to the best-kept secret fishing spots for rainbow trout fishing. Alaska guides need to be licensed, so always look for a qualified and registered individual.

When choosing a guide, select one that provides all the tools and equipment that you'll need on your trip (instead of lugging it on the plane). Also, inquire about the accommodations, food and experience level of the staff. Some recommended companies include Alaska NW Charters (yacht fishing charters), Alaska Outdoor Adventures, and Puffin Alaska Fishing Charters.

Before you book a guide or lodge, though, always take the time to speak with your "candidate" guide on the phone. Get a feel for their style, personality and fishing philosophy. While experience and skill are important, remember that you'll potentially be spending days in a boat with this person, and compatibility is critical.

Acquire a Fishing License

An experienced guide should arrange your license for you. Alternatively, you can buy your own license online and directly from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The rates for a non-state resident are $20 for one day, $35 for three days, $55 for 7 days, $80 for 14 days and $145 for an annual fishing license.?

In addition to obtaining a license, you must follow several other state rules and regulations regarding sport fishing. For example, you can't sell fish that were caught by sport fishing, nor can you export them unless they're properly prepared for transport. You're also limited in the type of equipment you can use. To review these regulations, contact the Fish and Game office directly or check out their website.

Pack Smart

Typically, your guide or lodge will supply you with your gear and equipment for fishing. However, you may have to bring your own waders or certain small supplies. Before you depart, you should ask your lodge or guide to supply you with a packing list that's season specific. Regardless, when packing for Alaska, you need to be prepared for any weather system.