Fishing for Giants in Alaska

Have you ever dreamed of fishing for giants in Alaska, one of the most stunning backdrops in the world?

Embark on a seven-day angling expedition in Alaska, the last frontier, to chase the titans of the deep and the monarchs of the streams. This guide is tailored to resonate with the hearts of anglers, offering an enthralling blend of fishing adventures and Alaskan rugged elegance. Let’s look at how to make the most of spending a week fishing for giants in Alaska.

Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage

Estimated flight time: London to Anchorage: 14 hours; New York to Anchorage: 7.5 hours; Los Angeles to Anchorage: 5.5 hours. Travellers from the UK will struggle to book direct flights so expect to connect in the US and complete the journey. Airlines to look at are American Airlines, Alaskan Airlines and British Airways but shop around for the best deals.
On landing, rent a car at the airport for a scenic 3-hour drive along the Seward Highway to the charming fishing town of Homer, known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” There are stops along the way to take refreshments and grab a few snaps of your stunning new location.
Evening: Settle into the Driftwood Inn, offering cosy lodging with views over Bishop’s Beach and Kachemak Bay. This is a great chance to explore local eateries like The Little Mermaid for a fresh seafood dinner or one of the many other restaurants open locally.

Day 2-3: Halibut Adventures in Homer

Morning: Its time to fish for giants in Alaska! Embark on a full-day halibut fishing charter with one of the many local fishing charters, targeting the gigantic Pacific Halibut which can often exceed 100 pounds. A local guide will be invaluable and make sure you get on the fish faster and one of the great things about Homer is that the Halibut can often be found relatively close to shore meaning you wont spend half your day travelling to the fish!
Evening: After a long day at sea relish your catch of the day at AJ’s OldTown Steakhouse & Tavern, where they’ll cook your catch to perfection. Alternatively, venture to Fat Olives Restaurant for a taste of their diverse menu offering a mix of fresh local seafood, pizzas, and hearty pasta dishes. With a casual and friendly atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and share stories of the day’s catch over a delightful meal. If you’re still keen on having your catch cooked, many eateries in Homer offer a “Cook Your Catch” service, allowing you to savour the fruits of your angling labour in a variety of delicious preparations.
Optional: On the evening of Day 3, enjoy a leisurely stroll on Homer Spit, a unique geographical feature filled with shops and restaurants. Make sure you take your camera to capture some unforgettable photo opportunities.

Day 4: Journey to The Kenai River

Morning: After a hearty breakfast at a local café, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to the famed Kenai Peninsula, home to the iconic Kenai River. The route is a visual feast with opportunities to spot wildlife like moose and eagles. There are also several viewpoints along the way such as Beluga Point, offering a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the panoramic vistas of the Turnagain Arm.
Afternoon: Arrive at the Kenai Riverside Lodge, nestled along the banks of the Kenai River amidst lush woods and majestic mountains. After settling in, take a guided tour of the premises, acquainting yourself with the available amenities and the surrounding nature trails. The lodge staff can help arrange your fishing licenses and gear rentals, ensuring you’re all set for the following day’s adventure.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Alaskan meal at the lodge’s riverside dining area, swapping stories with fellow anglers. The serene ambiance by the river under the twilight sky provides a tranquil setting to reminisce about the day’s journey and the fishing adventure that awaits.

Day 5-6: Salmon Fishing on The Kenai River

Morning: Rise early to the cool, crisp air of the Alaskan morning. After a nourishing breakfast at the lodge, embark on a guided fishing expedition on the turquoise waters of the Kenai River. Under the guidance of seasoned local experts, you’ll cast your lines for the mighty King and agile Silver Salmon. The exhilarating rush as you feel the tug on your line and the ensuing battle between man and fish is an experience to cherish.
Afternoon: Return to the lodge for a sumptuous lunch before heading out again for an afternoon session on the river. The guides will take you to different spots known for abundant fish activity, enhancing your chances of a rewarding catch. The scenic riverbanks, home to diverse wildlife, add a touch of wilderness to your angling adventure.
Evening: Unwind at Veronica’s Café in nearby Kenai town, offering a homely atmosphere with live music on select evenings. The menu boasts comfort food and fresh seafood, providing a satisfying end to a day of rigorous fishing.

Day 7: Farewell Alaska

Morning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge, reminiscing about the week’s adventures. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, capturing a few more photographs of the breath-taking Alaskan scenery.
Afternoon: Embark on a leisurely drive back to Anchorage, perhaps stopping at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre en-route to witness rescued animals like bears, moose, and bison in a natural setting. Don’t forget to grab a few presents for friends in the gift shop, plushy moose anybody?
Evening: Arrive in Anchorage and enjoy a farewell dinner at Simon & Seaforts, renowned for its seafood and stunning views over the Cook Inlet and Alaskan Range, before preparing for your flight home.

When to travel?

The sweet spot for embarking on an Alaskan fishing voyage to chase big Halibut and Salmon while enjoying amiable weather typically falls between late May and early September. During this window, the Alaskan summer graces the northern frontier with extended daylight hours and relatively mild temperatures, setting a pleasant stage for both offshore and river angling escapades.

Late May through July is a prime time for King Salmon (Chinook) fishing, as they make their way into freshwater to spawn, with the Kenai River being a particularly favoured haunt for anglers. As July transitions into August, Silver Salmon (Coho) begin their run, offering another exciting angling prospect. Concurrently, the halibut season kicks into high gear from June through August, with the waters around Homer being a renowned hotspot for landing these behemoths of the deep.

Cost Estimates

Costs can vary widely depending on how and when you want to travel. A rough estimate of a one-week stay including all accommodations, guided fishing expeditions and car rental ranges from £2,000 ($2,500) on the lower end up to £4,000+ ( $5,000+) for a more premium experience, per person. This makes an Alaskan fishing adventure on the higher end of most anglers travel budgets but it is truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who can manage it.

A one-week itinerary, packed with adventure like this, offers a blend of heart-pounding angling experiences and the serene beauty of Alaska’s landscapes. It’s a journey of pursuing the giants of the deep and the rivers, while soaking in the tranquil ambiance and rich culture of Alaska’s fishing towns. This trip is more than just an angling expedition; it’s a venture into the wild and a life experience you will never forget. Add fishing for giants in Alaska to your list of destinations today!