If you’re looking to catch trophy Salmon, Leopard Rainbow Trout and more in Alaska, then you want to head West! There are approximately 11 species that run the Aniak throughout its sportfishing season, and on “any” given week throughout the entire season, you’ll find 7 species, or more.
The Aniak River in Western Alaska is one of the few remaining premier remote wilderness fisheries that can be reached with relative ease. A short river by Alaskan standards, the Aniak flows 152 miles northward from its headwaters in the Kilbuck Mountains. Along this river you’re not likely to see another human being for days on end. Aniak River Lodge is the only major Outfitter on this river. In fact, you’re likely to see more moose, bears, eagles and wolves than other fishermen!
The Aniak River receives prolific runs of all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, including feisty Sockeye, hard-fighting Chum Salmon and huge numbers of trophy King Salmon of up to 50 pounds! The Kuskokwim River boasts the largest run of Silver Salmon in the state, with many of them heading up the Aniak.
The Salmon fishing on the Aniak can be arm-wearying and fantastic, it’s true, but variety is the real draw here. In one day, you can sight-cast mouse flies to trophy-class, richly-spotted, Leopard Rainbows, catch dozens of brilliant-hued Dolly Varden and Arctic Char in the endless, riffled braids. Then, go on to chase toothy Northern Pike in the river backwaters and sloughs. From there dry fly anglers can sample clear waters for the eager and beautiful Arctic Grayling. Add to that a truly unique fishing experience in sub-arctic Alaska, and you can go for the challenging Sheefish, aptly named the “tarpon of the north”.
For an unparalleled Alaskan wilderness fishing adventure, you must experience this lodge on the Aniak River to believe its bounty.
Approximately 320 miles West-Northwest of Anchorage, Alaska the village of Aniak lies at the mouth of the clear-water Aniak River where it joins the mighty Kuskokwim River. This is your portal to the remote Alaskan fishing that you’ve always dreamed of. You won’t be seeing the swarms of daily bush plane fly-outs as you might in the more congested drainages found further east.
Make your Saturday morning departure for a direct 1.5 hour flight from Anchorage to Aniak where staff members of the lodge will greet you and transport you and your gear to the nearby lodge. You’ll be situated at the lodge in time for a full afternoon of fishing!
Round trip air travel, Anchorage to Aniak is not included in the trip price
Our lodge partners here are long-time owners of one of the best-run operations in Alaska! They have a well-established Base Lodge in the village of Aniak, located 5 minutes from the airport, where we will provide lunch, have your luggage loaded, and off you go to the New Aniak River Lodge which is mid-river. A new lodge is being built this summer (2014) approximately twenty miles upriver from the town of Aniak for closer access to the fishing grounds. Seven newly built cabins are expected to be ready in time for August and September Coho runs.
Along with that, this trip also allows you to experience their deluxe, wilderness river-side camp 40 miles upstream from Aniak.
Their competent and friendly staff strives to make you feel at home in the wilderness no matter where you are. The Guides are skilled in all manner of fishing techniques and are continually monitoring the best fishing areas throughout the season. They can readily instruct you in the best ways to hook and land that trophy of a lifetime.
Our outfitter has the only “fixed camp” facility on the Aniak River, and they have built it with your comfort in mind. When you are upriver at the Tent Camp, you will find that each warm and dry Weatherport tent has been furnished with carpeting, comfortable cots, mosquito netting, sleeping bags and fresh linens. Tents are also equipped with heaters and Wi-Fi service. Hot and cold, running water is available along with shower facilities, a spacious dining area, and a drying tent for waders and rain jackets. If you find you are in need of clean clothing, clothing can be sent down river to a washer and dryer setup. .A generator powers the camp so you’ll be able to recharge batteries for your cameras. Satellite phones are available for emergency outside communications.
The professional Chef at this lodge has developed gourmet menus for the lodge and river camp sure to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. A wide and varied selection of tasty entrees are prepared daily to include, ribs, chops, chicken and steaks, complimented with hearty side dishes, breads and rolls along with delicious desserts. Clients rave about the wonderful meals here!
Tasty shore lunches will be prepared daily by your Guide and may include fresh caught fish or sandwiches, potatoes, onions, an additional veggie, soda/water, cookies, candy, or snacks.
Group Rates Available
Group rates are available catering to fly shop groups, women’s groups, corporate outings, etc.
Please contact us for details.
You are free to bring your own liquor (in plastic bottles please). There is no liquor available in Aniak.
For your convenience, you may contact Gold Rush Liquors at 1-888-344-2252 ahead of time, and they can take your order over the phone, ship it to Aniak River Lodge, One River Rd., Aniak, AK 99557 to your attention, and have it waiting on you when you arrive at the Lodge. Another option is to visit their store in Anchorage when you overnight there and bring it with you.
The Guide staff at this lodge has years of experience fishing the Aniak River and its tributaries. They work hard to make sure your fishing trip is a success. With a fleet of 7 jet boats, the Guides are able to navigate to the best fishing holes for the day. You may fish from the boats as well as wade fish throughout the day depending on the target species and conditions.
All 5 Pacific Salmon; Coho, Chinook, Chum, Sockeye, and Pink (even-number years), resident Arctic Char, Dolly Varden, Arctic Grayling, Leopard Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike, and Sheefish
To assure a comfortable and memorable trip, packing the following items is highly recommended:
Call or e-mail for additional gear recommendations
This region of western Alaska can have highly variable weather conditions but you can expect rain at any point during the summer season. In summer months nighttime temperatures can reach 30 to 40 degrees and afternoon highs vary from the 50’s to the low 80’s. Wind is always a possibility and snow can occur in late September.
Late June through late July
Late July through mid September
Late June through late July
Late June through late July
Late June through late July
Late June through mid September
Late June through late September
Terms: Global Sporting Safaris accepts payment by business check and personal check. American Express, Visa, and MasterCard credit card payments are also accepted, but they do incur a surcharge of 3.5% in addition to the price listed in Fishing Trip Packages above.
A 50% deposit is required upon booking to reserve your spot. In some cases, we can split your deposit into 3 payments, please inquire. Global Sporting Safaris will provide a Disclaimer & Waiver of Liability which must be sighed and returned. All Fishing trips are in U.S. dollars. Final 50% payment is due no less than 75 days prior to your trip date. Trips booked within 75 days of arrival require payment in full. Total costs of the fishing trips are fixed. There will be no refunds for any fisherman leaving early. See our Terms & Conditions for further details. Global Sporting Safaris recommends the purchase trip cancellation insurance. Click here for travel insurance.
Fishing has never been better. Book your fishing trip soon to get the time slot you’re looking for!