subject: Tips For Planning Your Alaska Fishing Adventure [print this page] Most fishing enthusiasts agree that going Alaska halibut and salmon fishing is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime experience. Such a trip represents a significant investment of money and time, so it is a good idea to figure out and plan exactly what you want to do before booking your outfitter. Here are some planning tips for your Alaska fishing adventure to make it truly unforgettable.
--How much of your day do you want to spend fishing?
You may think that you'll want to spend all of the hours in your day fishing, but the types of charters you choose, the kinds of fish you're looking for, and the locations where you fish will greatly influence how much of your actual time will be spent fishing.
To maximize your angling hours, book charters that will guarantee that you leave early in the morning and don't leave till late in the afternoon. Work only with outfitters that are located near your lodging place so that you will not waste too much time in transit. If you choose to spend a lot of time stream and lake fishing, you won't be spending as much time traveling and preparing.
Most people come north specifically for Alaska halibut and salmon fishing, and there will be plenty of outfitters who will be happy to oblige. However, keep in mind that when using chartered boats you are not in control of your fishing experience. Self-guided trips are best, and a good lodge will be able to find you nearby spots where you can fish for both halibut and salmon to your heart's content with a minimum amount of wasted daylight hours.
--Keep "run timing" in mind
Wouldn't you hate to go invest in an Alaskan fishing trip only to find that it it's the wrong time of year to angle for the fish of your choice? Run timing is a term that refers to when the fish you are looking for will be coming through the area where you will be fishing. If you have your heart set on catching a certain species, make sure to check with your lodge before booking to see if that fish will be there when you are.
--Choose the location of your lodge carefully
There aren't too many places in Alaska left where you can enjoy fishing with any degree of privacy because there are so many lodges and fishing outfitters now. However, a little research will yield you the results you want. Choose a lodge that is away from other lodges and even communities, and your chances of enjoying a more restful and relaxing fishing experience will be greatly increased.
Select a lodge with a stellar reputation that really knows how to look after its clients: you will come home happier and your freezer will be stocked with dinner for months to come.
