In the Bristol Bay area, on the northern shore of the Naknek River, an airstrip was established in 1930, becoming the air base where the village of King Salmon was founded. From there, passing through volcanoes, glaciers, and valleys populated only by wildlife, one can access the vast Katmai National Park, situated between the Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak Island, separated by the Shelikof Strait. From King Salmon, a half-hour private flight takes you to the ATA lodge, on the banks of the Alagnak River. Besides a rich variety of birds, this area is home to snowshoe hares, porcupines, weasels, martens, minks, beavers, river otters, moose and herds of caribou, together with wolverines, red foxes, Canadian lynxes, coyotes, wolves, and the endemic brown bear species known as the grizzly. These enormous bears can reach up to three meters in height and weigh nearly 600 kilos. From the lodge, a twenty-minute seaplane ride takes you to Brooks Falls, a small waterfall famous among photographers from around the world who come to capture images of grizzlies fishing for salmon. Indeed, the lodge is also popular with hikers and photography groups. It’s quite easy to see bears up close, as this area has the highest concentration of grizzlies in the world. Inside Katmai, several rivers flow, including the famous Alagnak Wild River, the destination of our journey. ATA Lodge is structured to accommodate around twenty guests, with a spacious dining room offering excellent international cuisine, wooden cabins equipped with all the essentials, well-fitted jet boats, and everything needed to ensure an unforgettable week of fishing. Near the lodge, the river branches into various smaller channels, providing beautiful spots for fishing with truly
incredible views. The river’s clarity is also due to its formation from two large lakes: Kukaklek Lake or Nonvianuk Lake which is connected to Kulik Lake by the Kulik River. From the Lakes, the Alagnak River flows for 75 miles through untouched areas, including a mile-long class III canyon and various stretches that are challenging without guides. The Alagnak is considered by many locals, as one of the sacred rivers, and is among the best for fishing in all of Alaska. From early June, when large, leopard-spotted rainbow trout begin to move, to the end of September, with the last runs of silver salmon, the Alagnak is packed with fish. Majestic king salmon of incredible size and beautiful trout, grayling, and char can be caught throughout the season, along with all 5 Pacific salmon species. Here, all 5 salmon species have impressive, highly aggressive runs, and there are even lakes with pike in them near by. The lodge’s excellent guides will offer highly professional assistance, and one does not need to be an expert angler to enjoy catching several fish per day on this river. The only advice is to pack the right clothing, favoring technical and breathable layers due to the frequent temperature changes. This river is highly recommended for anyone seeking a fishing experience in one of the world’s most pristine regions.
If fly-fishing were considered a religion, then Alaska would be its High Church. Fly-Fishing in Alaska is more than just a sport or passion - it’s a way of life. Once you have been bitten by the bug, you’re “hooked”. At ATA Lodge, on the Alagnak River, you have the unique opportunity to visit some of the most remote and stunningly beautiful locations on the planet to Fly Fish!
