Season: June September Fish Species: Rainbow trout, char, grayling, and five species of salmon Lodge Capacity: 12 anglers Rate: $7,650 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www.flywatertravel.com Kris Hamrick tight to a feisty American Creek rainbow. Photo: Ken Morrish NO SEE UM LODGE You will have stories to tell when you come home from this trip. Fish cartwheeling away and stealing into your backing, bears growling in the bushes, and enough solitude streamside to let you savor all that s important the feel of tundra beneath your feet, the croaking of ravens in the distance, and the ebony spots in the rainbow s eye. Nestled on a private bluff overlooking the Kvichak River, No See Um Lodge has ranked among the finest Alaskan fly-out operations for over 20 years. The guest houses have a total of six bedrooms, each equipped with twin beds and a private bathroom. A lounge with full complimentary bar and woodstove enhance the One of the Alaska s finest fly-out lodges for trophy rainbows and sea bright salmon comfortable setting. The lodge is centrally heated and each bedroom has an excellent view of the river. In addition to exceptional cuisine, the lodge has 24-hour electricity, phone service, and a classic wood fire sauna. Anglers access all of the Iliamna region s finest trout waters with the help of experienced pilots, professional guides, impeccably maintained fl oatplanes, and countless jet boats stashed away on all the best systems. Come and experience fi rsthand the incredible angling and unsurpassed service that have exceeded the expectations of discriminating fly fishers the world over. Spaces are limited so early reservations are required.
Season: June September Fish Species: Rainbow trout, char, grayling, pike and salmon Lodge Capacity: 12 anglers Rate: $7,000 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com The ultimate reward; a massive Kvichak rainbow. Photo: Royal Coachman Lodge ROYAL COACHMAN LODGE Located in the heart of the Wood- Tikchik Park on the banks of the Nushagak s main tributary, the Nuyakuk River, Royal Coachman Lodge offers access to exceptional home waters as well as fly-out fishing to some of Alaska s most scenic and least crowded trout and salmon waters. Royal Coachman features full time professional guides, two floatplanes, exceptional cuisine, friendly staff, and great fishing. The lodge also holds several exclusive permits in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, A classic fly-out lodge with a tremendous range and access to every significant species guaranteeing access to some of the best king and silver salmon fly water available in southwestern Alaska. Private cabins for each pair of guests feature comfortable furniture and bathrooms with showers. The main lodge is tastefully furnished, with living room and dining room overlooking the Nuyakuk River. This beautifully situated, intimate lodge caters to twelve guests per week, ensuring complete flexibility in the fishing program and a high level of personalized service throughout your stay.
Max Morrish learning the craft under the watchful eye of lodge owner Justin Johns. Photo: Ken Morrish FISHING BEAR LODGE Describing a place as unique and special as Fishing Bear Lodge is anything but easy. At its core this modest and endearing family run lodge offers its guests just the right amount of roughing it and an opportunity to experience a remarkable diversity of true wilderness fly fishing. Backing up against the surreal spires of the Wind River Range in the heart of southwest Alaska s 1.6 million acres Wood-Tikchik State Park, Fishing Bear employs jet boats to fish a host of seldom seen An intimate, family run operation, perfect for fathers and sons or groups wanting to step into the Alaskan Wilderness with both feet small streams for hearty rainbows, abundant artic char and large surface oriented grayling. In addition to these smaller under the radar systems, guests can enjoy late night trophy rainbow sessions on the renowned Agulapak. For dry fly enthusiasts, lovers of solitude and exceptional scenery, or families in search of a memorable wilderness adventure and a rewarding introduction to the wonders of wilderness fly fishing, this is a place you will want to visit more than once. Season: June early October Fish Species: Rainbow trout, char, grayling, pike, sockeye salmon Lodge Capacity: 8 anglers NEW Rate: $3,950 per person for a 6 night/6 day package Full Details: See www.flywatertravel.com
Daily double on the Kanektok. Photo: Mary-Kate Whitford ALASKA WEST Season: June September Fish Species: Rainbow trout, five species of salmon, char, grayling Lodge Capacity: 22 anglers Rate: $4,900 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com The Alaska West camp offers anglers the best of the Kanektok River legendary main stem fishing for sea-bright kings, chum, and silvers, and willow-lined side channels teeming with wild leopard bows, char, and grayling. The Kanektok is by all standards a remarkably diverse fishery, perfectly suited to both single hand and spey rod anglers and offers one of Alaska s best opportunities to target both king salmon and fresh silvers with the fly. High catch rates, easy wading, and open backcasts are the norm. The ultimate base camp for anglers seeking bright salmon, leopard rainbows, and spey casting instruction Alaska West is a large, luxurious tent camp set in the heart of the lower Kanektok s finest water. Guests sleep in pairs in comfortable wall tents with carpeted fl oors, quality mattresses, heat and lighting. Hot showers, a large dining tent, a recreation tent, and a drying tent complete the scene. Anglers fish two per guide and move about the system in 18-foot jet boats. For those interested in getting a great taste of all that Alaska has to offer without footing the bill for a fly-out lodge, Alaska West is a proven crowd-pleaser that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
NEW Season: June September Fish Species: Rainbow trout, char, grayling, halibut, five species of salmon Lodge Capacity: 16 anglers Rate: $7,295 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www.flywatertravel.com Heading in after a day of coastal silver fishing. Photo: Rapids Camp Lodge RAPIDS CAMP LODGE Rapids Camp Lodge is an easy to reach full service fly-out lodge with excellent home waters and one of the most diverse and exciting fishing programs in Alaska. Seasoned hardcore fl y anglers appreciate the wide range of water the lodge frequents. This includes staples like the Moraine, Battle Creek, Contact Creek, Headwaters Creek and the American River. Other prolific under the radar rainbow fisheries mandate the use of a wheel plane and sturdy walking legs. Additionally Rapids Camp Lodge is one of the few destinations equipped and willing to handle a wide range of eco type activities including flight seeing of the regions many glaciers and The best equipped and most versatile fly-out lodge in the state volcanoes, bear and wildlife viewing, clam digging, beachcombing and halibut fishing. The lodge features eight comfortable double occupancy rooms with private baths, a friendly wine and beer bar, two gourmet chefs, workout room, and complimentary state of the art tackle and waders. With three Beavers and a turbine Otter, handsome jet boats for the home water, and a saltwater boat located in the unparalleled Geographic Harbor, Rapids Camp has endless options for all who visit. Whether you are after silvers or kings, massive rainbows on the spey rod, or a crack at wilderness rainbows that rarely see a fly, this is an operation that will keep you coming back.
Season: June mid-october Fish Species: Rainbow trout, five species of salmon, Dolly Varden, grayling Lodge Capacity: 14 guests Rate: $5,300 per person for a 4 night/5 day package (includes approximately three days of elected guided fly-out activities) Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com Tordrillo Mountain Lodge utilizes choppers to fl oat and fi sh remote, seldom seen waterways. Photo: Tordrillo Mountain Lodge TORDRILLO MOUNTAIN LODGE For years we have been on the lookout for a quality, multisport adventure lodge in Alaska s southwestern interior. Our criteria were straightforward quality wilderness fishing for trout and salmon, as well as exceptional guided activities for nonanglers. This past season we finally found it! Located on a scenic point overlooking Judd Lake and the headwater of the fabled Talachulitna River, Tordrillo Mountain Lodge has everything we hoped for and more. Anglers enjoy ultra remote, guided heli-fishing (walk and wade or inflatable kayak floats) for rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, grayling and salmon, while non-anglers can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, guided heli-hiking and heli-rafting adventures. Alaska s premier multi-sport lodge with remote helicopter fishing, hiking, skiing and rafting perfect for couples and families Additional activities include wake boarding, foil boarding, stand up paddling, bear viewing and flight seeing in the greater Denali/ Tordrillo region. The 5,600 sq. ft. lodge features double occupancy rooms with private baths, exceptional meals, an impressive wine list, and a full bar. After the day s adventures, unwind in the lodge s oversized wood fire hot tub and lakefront sauna or treat yourself to a professional massage. Widely recognized as one of North America s premier winter heli-skiing operations, Tordrillo s acclaimed Kings and Corn Adventure Trip combines spring heli-skiing with ultra productive, small stream fly-out fishing for king salmon. Early reservations required.
Rafting an Alaskan wilderness river represents the ultimate in value and adventure. Photo: Ouzel Expeditions ALASKAN FLOAT TRIPS There is little doubt that a wilderness float trip represents one of greatest and most memorable adventures in the world. At Fly Water Travel we are proud to work with three of Alaska s premier outfitters including Beyond Boundaries, Frontier River Guides and Ouzel Expeditions. Some of our favorite trips are outlined below. THE KANEKTOK This 100 mile float through the wilds of the Togiak Wildlife Refuge has become a standard by which other float trips are measured. With exceptional guides, access to all five species of Pacific salmon, Dolly Varden, grayling, and gorgeous leopard bows, this seven day trip keeps anglers coming back year after year. Rate: $4,675 per person for a 7 day/6 night package AMERICAN CREEK For the serious rainbow hunter keen on a true wilderness adventure, few systems compare with American Creek in the heart of the Katmai region. After landing in an alpine lake, the expedition will float through miles of productive pocket water, a steep canyon with rapids, and then on into intricate braids, and the long slicks of the lower river. The entire 36 miles of river is home to numerous rainbows in the 18-24 inch class with fish in the 30 inch class taken each season. Add to that lots of big dollies and bears and you start to get the idea of what a trip down American Creek is all about. Rate: $3,750-4,390 per person per week THE KISARALIK Transecting a wide range of ecosystems with several portages, this float is a true wilderness adventure with exceptional salmon runs as well as rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, arctic char and grayling. The upper reaches of the river are exceedingly scenic and the fishing tends to improve each and every day with the last forty miles consistently exceeding expectations. Rate: $4,250 per person for an 8 day/7 night package LAKE CREEK For folks who want to get the entire Alaskan wilderness experience condensed into a five day float trip, Lake Creek is our top pick. With a stunning backdrop of Denali, wildlife, rapids and hearty populations of rainbows and Pacific salmon, Lake Creek delivers. Rate: $3,750-$4,290 per person
NEW Season: June mid-october Fish Species: Five species of salmon, Dolly Varden, halibut and rockfish Lodge Capacity: 14 guests Rate: $5,050 per person for a 5 night/5 1 / 2 day package Full Details: See www.flywatertravel.com Baranof owner and master outdoorsman Mike Trotter leading Max Morrish to one of his secret spots. Photo: Ken Morrish BARANOF WILDERNESS LODGE Beneath the jagged granite peaks, the cold blue ice fields, the natural hot springs, and the thundering waterfall that spills into the salmon filled sea, there is a lodge that is unique among those that we represent. More than a place to simply visit, southeast Alaska s Baranof Wilderness Lodge offers an unparalleled base for connecting to one of the world s most diverse and vibrant ecosystems. From the comfort of their waterfront lodge, anglers of all skill levels can walk and wade The ultimate venue for friends, families and couples to experience the vast and varied wonders of southeast Alaska remote wilderness streams teeming with salmon and Dolly Varden, fish for halibut, bottom fish and Pacific salmon, sea kayak, whale watch, bear view or soak in the natural hot springs which first made Warm Springs Bay famous. With food and hospitality to match the grandeur and bounty of the region, Baranof Wilderness Lodge is a gem that families, couples, and serious anglers alike will find profoundly moving and pleasurable.
Perfect in size and structure, the Kispiox is also home to the world s largest steelhead. Photo: Ken Morrish KISPIOX RIVER FISHING COMPANY The Kispiox is a river of subtle moods, endless secrets, and staggering rewards. The family of head guide Jim Allen first homesteaded in the valley four generations ago in 1906. Since that time they have become as much a part of the river as the river has become a part of them. When you are with Jim Allen and his crew of talented guides, all of whom call the Kispiox home, you are in very good hands. Clients enjoy the lavish comforts of spacious, double occupancy rooms in the newly constructed Bear Claw Lodge. A massive, timber frame structure with Hunt for the world s largest steelhead from a base of unequalled elegance and service panoramic views of the upper river, Bear Claw has set a new standard for elegance in the Skeena watershed. Each day anglers float different sections of the river in rafts and swing flies through a remarkable variety of water that is home to some of the largest steelhead in the world. In addition to the Kispiox, anglers have the option of fishing the Skeena and lower Bulkley, depending on conditions. For all who appreciate skilled guides, fine accommodations and a shot at some of the world s largest wild steelhead, this is the place. Please ask about special 2-4 day packages. Season: September early November Fish Species: Steelhead Lodge Capacity: 8 anglers Rate: CAD $6,000 per person (plus GST) for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www.flywatertravel.com
When it comes to BC steelhead fishing, no company offers more destinations or knows more about these unique fisheries than Fly Water Travel. Photo: Ken Morrish
THE BULKLEY RIVER As the Skeena s largest tributary, the Bulkley may be blessed with more good swing runs than any other river. With over 80 miles of productive water, most of which is broad and shallow, the Bulkley is a mecca for dry line and dry fly enthusiasts as well as any angler keen on a stable, productive British Columbia steelhead venue. The season extends from September through early November. BULKLEY RIVER LODGE A Fly Water favorite, Bulkley River Lodge is perfect, with quaint cabins on the banks of a lovely riffle. Headed by Bulkley River veteran Dave Evans, the guide staff at Bulkley River Lodge is made up of experienced professionals who maintain a fun, playful, and educational attitude on the river. Accessing more than 80 miles of gorgeous fly water via jet boats, drift boats and rafts, Bulkley River Lodge provides an exceptional experience for both seasoned steelheaders and first timers. Anglers sleep two per cabin, each complete with comfortable beds, private baths, and heat. Excellent meals with tastefully selected wines are served in the main lodge each evening. Rate: $4,995 per person (plus GST) for a 7 night/ 7 day package FRONTIER FARWEST LODGE For more than twenty years, Frontier Farwest Lodge has been sharing the secrets of the Bulkley River with anglers from around the world. Built in 1935 and known then as The Telkwa Creamery, Frontier Farwest Lodge is owned by veteran guide Derek Botchford and his Chilean wife Andrea Soto. Rooms in the main lodge have private baths and sleep two anglers per room. Hearty meals are served with complimentary drinks each evening. River travel is done via drift boat. All guests get to experience two rustic overnight trips that include two full days of fishing the Bulkley s remote canyon waters. Camps are located on exceptional steelhead water and offer a spacious cook tent and a large guest tent with four comfortable cots and a portable heater. Frontier Farwest also offers a limited number of four day float trips through their canyon waters. Please call for details. Rate: CAD $4,850 per person (plus GST) for a 7 night/6 day package STEELHEAD EXCURSIONS NEW Steelhead Excursions is a highly personalized, family operated steelhead lodge that is based out of the home of Bob and Jill Hull on the Bulkley River. Bob is one of the most experienced and respected guides on the Bulkley and enjoys a very loyal client base, most of whom fish with him every season. Bob and Jill have modified their home so that six anglers can all enjoy their own private rooms and three shared baths. Bob works with two other expert guides and each day anglers depart the lodge with jet boats in tow. While spaces are extremely limited, this is an exceptional venue that is enjoyable, enriching and productive for all who get the opportunity to visit. Rate: $4,700 per person (plus GST) for a 7 night/6 day package
Fly Water Travel and Lani Waller are the only companies with established booking privileges for all three of the Babine s renowned lodges. Photos: Ken Morrish and Kent Davenport
THE BABINE RIVER Flowing deep within the wilds of northern British Columbia, the Babine experiences returns of some of the world s largest wild steelhead. Rugged, remote and lightly guided, this river is best suited to experienced anglers who appreciate solitude streamside. Most lodges open in early September and close in early November. SILVER HILTON LODGE Widely considered to be the finest and most exclusive steelhead fishing lodge in the world, the Silver Hilton has jet boat access to more than twenty miles of pristine trophy steelhead water. Babine fish range from 8 pounds to over 30 pounds and are among the purest strain of wild steelhead remaining in North America. Silver Hilton features two fully staffed, five-star facilities located approximately seven miles apart. The Main Camp fishes eight rods per week on the two lower beats. The upper Triple Header camp takes four rods per week on the upper reach. Anglers fish four per guide and rotate through all the beats, ensuring ample solitude streamside. Due to a high rate of repeat clients, availability is typically limited to early and late in the season. All packages include round-trip, private helicopter transportation from Smithers, BC to the lodge. Rate: $5,000-$7,100 per person for a 7 night/7 day package (includes $250 to the Save the Babine Foundation) BABINE NORLAKES LODGE Located on the clear flowing upper reaches of the famed Babine River, Pierce Clegg s Babine Norlakes Lodge is a classic camp for the serious steelheader. With the longest season of any BC steelhead camp, Babine Norlakes takes pride in creating an operation that involves fishing hard and playing hard each and every day of the season. With a range of 13 miles, anglers relentlessly cover the river s prime holding water before returning to camp for drinks, a hearty meal, and the coveted roaring bonfire. And while all anglers will have the opportunity to fish the lodge s lower satellite waters, three anglers, through the process of a random drawing, will get to spend two full days on these waters with an overnight at the cozy, four person satellite camp. Anglers sleep in comfortable, heated bunk cabins with detached communal shower and outhouses. For serious anglers keen on putting the big ones on the beach and having a good time in the process, this is the place. Rate: CAD $5,750 per person (plus GST and $250 to Save the Babine Foundation) for a 6 night/6 1 / 2 day package BABINE STEELHEAD LODGE Babine Steelhead Lodge is the middle lodge of the Babine s three operations and is attractively situated overlooking a long, home pool. The facility boasts three well built bunk cabins that sleep up to four anglers. Cabins have heat, linens, and attached sinks and toilets. A communal shower house and a drying room are nearby, linked to the cabins by attractive boardwalks. The main lodge features a comfortable living room with a sweeping view of the river and a large adjoining dining room where meals are served. In standard Babine fashion, anglers fish four per jet boat and work some of the longest and most seductive runs on the river. For those who want to experience some of British Columbia s finest trophy steelhead fishing, this operation deserves your serious consideration Rate: CAD $5,500 per person (plus GST and CAD $200 to Save the Babine Foundation) for a 6 night/6 day package A Steelheader s Way, by Lani Waller is now available. This 216 page hard-cover book features ten color illustrations by Dave Hall, more than 150 color photos by Ken Morrish and an impressive array of insightful chapters by one of the world s most highly regarded steelheaders. It is published by Headwater Books (www.headwaterbooks. com) and distributed by Stackpole Books. For autographed copies, order directly from the author at lani.waller@verizon.net or 415-897-4997.
Paul Peterson going long on the Sustut s middle beat. Photo: Ken Morrish