SEASONS
JUNE FISHING
The fishing season in Bristol Bay opens on June 8th, which is an exciting time for rainbow trout fishing. The salmon fry migration starts and rainbow trout feed aggressively to recover from a long winter. Most of our early trips in June focus on streamer fishing, and our guides love teaching Spey casting techniques to fish some of the larger rivers in the area. June is also an exciting time for dry fly fishing and hiking intimate streams for trout and grayling, some of your beloved hatches from the lower 48 can be found right in our backyard. With 18 hours of daylight in the spring and daily fly-outs in our Helio Courier, we have the flexibility to tailor your fishing schedule to "match the hatch." Anglers can expect to encounter fewer people at well-known destinations such as the famed Brooks Falls in June, it is the perfect time to experience true solitude. In addition to trout and grayling, we also have opportunities to fish for Northern Pike, Dolly Varden, and Lake trout in June.
In July, the sockeye salmon are just starting to make their way into the river systems of Katmai National Park. The return of the Sockeye Salmon is an exciting time for bears and anglers alike. As the salmon push into rivers, the trout (and bears) follow to pursue the abundant food source. Before the salmon begin their spawn, you can expect sight fishing opportunities with dry flies and nymphing, and even opportunities to fish with the famed "mice patterns" of Alaska. As the month progresses and the salmon begin to spawn, egg patterns become the method of choice across Bristol Bay. July is also the peak season for observing bears gathering at Brooks Falls to catch salmon, a must-see adventure for anyone visiting Alaska. Just as in June, July is a great opportunity to scratch Northern Pike, Grayling, and Char off your bucket list.
JULY FISHING
AUGUST FISHING
August is considered the "peak" of the salmon spawn in the Bristol Bay region, and when we really start to see the fish feed aggressively on salmon eggs. The rainbow trout and dolly varden stage up below salmon nests to wait for drifting eggs, creating exciting sight fishing opportunities. Don't forget your polarized sunglasses! One of the highlights of August is flying out to share small streams with brown bears as they fish for salmon to help sustain them through winter. August is a great time to bring along your camera for some exciting photographs in between incredible fishing. We primarily focus on hiking trips with breathtaking tundra views in August to access remote areas with more fish, and fewer people.
In September, while a few rivers are still experiencing spawning salmon populations, many of the salmon are reaching the end of their life cycle and have died. While the weather can be unpredictable and rugged, the fish are at their heaviest and we tend to find some of our largest trout and char during September. While fishing with egg patterns is still common in September, streamers and flesh patterns become very productive during this time. It is a great time to swing flies with two-handed rods for seasoned anglers who are looking for trophy opportunities, as well as those who are looking to learn spey casting techniques with our experienced guides. In September, the tundra is changing colors, the bears are at their fattest, and the shorter days bring incredible sunset views from the lodge's front porch.
SEPTEMBER FISHING