Ayakulik River, Kodiak Island – Alaska

There is no greater thrill for the adventurous angler than to fish for salmon or steelhead in the company of the magnificent Alaska brown bear. And there is no better place in the world to experience such an adventure than on the island of Kodiak. The so called “emerald island” is a place of incredible beauty, fantastic fishing and the home of the densest population of giant brown bears in all Alaska. Isolated from the rest of Alaska for thousands of years the brown bear has thrived in the unique natural environment of this protected island. It’s mild climate, varied topography and abundance of food in the form of various species of Pacific salmon, abundant Sitka black tail deer, grasses and berries has provided the brown bear.

Kodiak offers sports fishermen a variety of options for decent fishing along its road system, however, the best fishing is to be found away from the crowds in remote areas of the island accessible only by air or sea. Remote rivers such as the Karluk, the Sturgeon, the Ayakulik, the Uganik, Dog Salmon Creek or Olga Creek, can provide some of the best action anywhere on the island, but it is important to know your waters and be at the right place at the right time for the species you are targeting.

We target some of the best waters on the island for Chinook salmon or trophy coho salmon on a fly, waters that are perfect for wading and fly fishing. Their remote location assures that that the only fishermen on the river are guests at the lodge. To get here, we generally use small planes fromm Kodiak to Larsen Bay and then a helicopter for the last part off the journey. It is definitely a trip worth taking even if it were just for the spectacular views of the island you will experience.

June is the peak time for chinook (or king salmon), while September is peak season for cohos (or silver salmon). There are few waters in Alaska that are so appropriate for catching kings on a fly and after some years of reduced runs, kings were back in good numbers in 2010. Kodiak cohos are the largest in Alaska with fish averaging in the upper teens and some even topping the 20 pound mark. This salmon is the most spectacular fighter of all. Blazing runs in unpredictable directions and explosive acrobatics make it a thrill to catch both on a fly rod or spinning gear. During this time of year, you will also enjoy the fishing for abundant dolly varden and the occasional early steelhead.

The area we fish in the extreme south western part of the island is prime bear habitat and if you travel there with us you will definitely see bears. Coming across a wild brown bear while fishing these waters, can be unnerving for first timers. But for most fishermen it is without a doubt one of the most exciting and memorable experiences they will ever have while enjoying the sport. As long as you use common sense and follow a few simple rules you should never have a problem fishing here. Our guides are native Alaskans that have fished these waters for years and have a great deal of experience being around bears. They will brief all guests on what to do and what not to do while they are in bear country and keep a watchful eye on them at all times.