Ready for a slice of Alaskan angling heaven? Hop aboard our drift boat and let's hit the Kasilof River for some world-class salmon and trout action. This isn't your average fishing trip – it's a 6-hour journey through some of the most stunning scenery Alaska has to offer, with plenty of chances to land the big one. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our Kasilof River float trip is the perfect way to experience the best of Alaska's legendary fishing.
Picture this: You're gliding down the turquoise waters of the Kasilof, surrounded by towering evergreens and snow-capped mountains. Our comfortable drift boat seats up to three guests, so you've got plenty of elbow room to cast. We'll mix it up between drifting and shore fishing, giving you the best of both worlds. Your guide's got eyes like a hawk and knows every bend in the river, so you'll be hitting the honey holes all day long. And don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes, from casting techniques to reading the water. It's a laid-back day that's all about soaking in the scenery, learning some new tricks, and hopefully landing a few beauties for the cooler.
On the Kasilof, we're all about versatility. We'll be switching between fly fishing and conventional gear, depending on what's biting and where we are on the river. Expect to try your hand at drift fishing, back-trolling, and even some good old-fashioned bank fishing when we spot a prime hole. We'll set you up with top-notch gear, but if you've got a favorite rod, feel free to bring it along. The key here is patience and technique – sometimes a subtle drift is all it takes to entice a big king salmon to strike. And when we're targeting those feisty rainbows, a well-placed fly can make all the difference. Don't sweat it if you're not an expert caster – your guide will be right there to help you dial in your technique.
"Nate was a great guide, was very helpful with us beginners on fly fishing! Made the trip very enjoyable and would recommend whole heartedly!" - Carol
Red Irish Lord: Don't let the name fool you – these guys aren't Irish, but they sure are crafty. These bottom-dwelling sculpin are a treat to catch and a testament to your skills. They're not huge, usually topping out around 20 inches, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. Look for them around rocky areas – they're masters of camouflage, so spotting one is half the battle.
Barndoor Skate: Now here's a fish that'll make your day. These massive flatfish can reach up to 5 feet across and put up one heck of a fight. They're like reeling in a big, angry kite. Barndoor skates are a rare catch, but when you hook one, you're in for a real workout. They're most active in the cooler months, so early season trips give you the best shot at landing one of these beauties.
Pacific Halibut: The heavyweight champ of Alaska's waters, Pacific halibut are the fish that fishing stories are made of. These flat giants can tip the scales at over 300 pounds, though most we catch are in the 20-100 pound range. They're strong fighters that'll test your stamina, but the reward is some of the best-tasting fish you'll ever have. Summer's prime time for halibut, and while we won't catch them in the river, they're a staple for many of our ocean charters.
Sockeye Salmon: Ah, the sockeye – the fish that put the Kasilof on the map. These ruby-red beauties start running in June and peak in July, offering some of the most exciting fishing you'll find anywhere. Sockeye are notorious for their fighting spirit, often leaping clear out of the water when hooked. They average 6-12 pounds, but it's their rich, flavorful meat that makes them a prized catch. There's nothing quite like the rush of seeing your line go tight with a fresh sockeye on the other end.
Look, the Kasilof isn't getting any less popular, and prime dates fill up fast. This trip is the real deal – stunning scenery, world-class fishing, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer with some of Alaska's finest salmon or just want to experience the thrill of battling a feisty trout on a fly rod, we've got you covered. Remember, it's not just about the fish – it's about the experience. The crisp Alaskan air, the sound of the river, and the satisfaction of a perfect cast. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat, and let's make some fishing magic happen on the Kasilof. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water!
July 7, 2025
Pacific halibut are the giants of our local waters. These flatfish can grow over 500 pounds, though 20-100 pounders are more common catches. We find them in deep, cold waters from 150-500 feet down. Summer's the prime time, as they move into shallower feeding grounds. Halibut fishing is all about patience and heavy gear. We'll use sturdy rods, 60-pound line, and 1-2 pound weights to get baits like salmon heads or herring down to where these ambush predators lie in wait. A slow retrieve with occasional quick jerks can trigger strikes. The fight with a big halibut is unforgettable - it's like hauling up a barn door! Beyond the challenge, halibut are prized for their firm, mild white meat. It's some of the best eating fish out there. Here's a local trick: Add scent to your bait and make some noise with your lure. In deep water, halibut hunt more by smell and sound than sight. Now, who's ready to battle one of these beasts of the deep?
The Red Irish Lord is a colorful character you might encounter while bottom fishing. These sculpin relatives grow to about 20 inches, but most are around a foot long. Look for them hiding near rocky reefs and structures in waters down to 165 feet deep. These ambush predators are masters of camouflage, changing color to match their surroundings. They'll lie motionless, waiting for unsuspecting prey to wander by. While not a primary target, hooking one can be a fun surprise. To catch a Red Irish Lord, try a drop shot rig with shrimp or crab bait. Use a medium-light rod with 10-20 pound line. They have big mouths, so don't be afraid to use larger hooks. What makes these fish cool is their unique look and behavior. Plus, they're pretty tasty if you decide to keep one for the table. Here's a tip: When you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give it a moment - these guys often need time to fully take the bait.
Sockeye salmon are a real treat on the Kasilof. These fish average 4-15 pounds and put up an impressive fight for their size. We target them from May through September as they make their epic journey from the ocean back to their spawning grounds. You'll find sockeye hugging the bottom in deeper runs and pools. Their bright red spawning colors make for some stunning photos. To hook into one, we'll use flies or small lures that imitate their food sources. A 7-9 weight fly rod or medium spinning setup works well. The key is getting your presentation right at their eye level as they swim upstream. When hooked, sockeye make blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Aside from the thrill of catching them, sockeye are prized for their rich, flavorful meat. It's some of the best-tasting salmon you'll find. My pro tip: Try swinging bright red flies on a sink-tip line to trigger their aggressive bite. Let's get out there and see if we can land a few of these special fish!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Nate was a great guide, was very helpful with us beginners on fly fishing! Made the trip very enjoyable and would recommend whole heartedly!