Those who love fun vacations have no shortage of options for great family trips, both throughout the US and abroad. You will easily find recreational activities that everyone will love. However, for the fishing enthusiast, nothing beats an expedition on the spell-binding Alaskan waters.
If you love rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to go. The water is clear, the fish are jumping at your hooks and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
However, prior to heading out on a major fishing expedition, please read on for some ideas and hints that will help your fishing trip go as smoothly as possible.
Be Aware of Your Fishing Seasons
Rainbow trout season in Alaska runs from June 15 to Oct 31 - however where the trout are running depends on the year and the river you select. For more information, you can ask your guide to help you find the best trout fishing spots, or you can consult the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
A Guide by Your Side
Hiring a guide will not only help keep you safe, but will also save your fishing trip. A guide can do a lot more than provide equipment and help you to navigate the Alaska waters - they can also point you to the best-kept secret fishing spots for rainbow trout fishing. Alaska guides need to be licensed, so always look for a qualified and registered individual.
Ideally, you want a guide who provides you with equipment, safety gear, accommodations, supplies and experience. Some recommended and locally respected companies include Puffin Alaska Fishing Charters, Alaska NW Charters, and Alaska Outdoor Adventures.
Before you book a guide or lodge, though, always take the time to speak with your “candidate” guide on the phone. Get a feel for their style, personality and fishing philosophy. While experience and skill are important, remember that you’ll potentially be spending days in a boat with this person, and compatibility is critical.
Acquire a Fishing License
An experienced guide should arrange your license for you. Alternatively, you can buy your own license online and directly from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The rates for a non-state resident are $20 for one day, $35 for three days, $55 for 7 days, $80 for 14 days and $145 for an annual fishing license.
There are certain state regulations in place in Alaska that forbid the wasting of fish, the sale of sport-caught fish and the type of equipment or tools that can be used during the fishing process. For more information on these rules and regulations, you can call or visit the Fish and Game website.
Pack Smart
Typically, your guide or lodge will supply you with your gear and equipment for fishing. However, you may have to bring your own waders or certain small supplies. Before you depart, you should ask your lodge or guide to supply you with a packing list that’s season specific. Regardless, when packing for Alaska, you need to be prepared for any weather system.
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