Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska

Province/state: Alaska
Country: USA

Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska 1If you’re looking for a remote fishing destination that is out of the ordinary, Kodiak Island is an exceptional choice for your next Alaska fishing vacation. The only way to get to Kodiak Island is by plane or boat and the public road system on the island is minimal. Alaska fly-in fishing lodges, float trip guides and remote fishing charters can take you to isolated angling grounds that offer access to both fresh and salt water fishing. You’ll enjoy the lack of crowds, dramatic landscapes and some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world.

Kodiak Island is located off the south coast of Alaska, separated from the mainland by the Shelikof Strait. It is the largest island in the Kodiak Archipelago, a group of islands located 30 miles offshore from the Alaska Peninsula. Kodiak Island is the second biggest island in the United States and boasts Alaska’s wilderness in it’s purest form, showcasing lush forests, emerald hills, snowy mountains and deep blue seas. Take in this breathtaking scenery has you fish along the coastline, or on one of the island’s rivers and lakes, during your unforgettable Alaska fishing vacation.

Freshwater Fishing

Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska 2Freshwater streams and lakes can be accessed along the road system on Kodiak Island, Alaska. Fishing resorts also offer access to freshwater fishing and fly fishing opportunities in more remote areas. Most Kodiak rivers support populations of trout and a variety of salmon species. The best area to fish on a river is in the inter-tidal zone closer to the coast where the river’s depth varies depending on low or high tide. As the tide comes in, you’ll find a fury of hungry salmon and trout.

Fish for Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden in Kodiak Island’s fresh water systems in early spring. This is when they come out to feed on minnows and salmon fry. You can also find populations of Dolly Varden in the inter-tidal zone of streams during a salmon run later in the season. Steelhead can also be found in the spring, but are primarily a fall-run fish.

As summer starts, so does the return of Red (Sockeye) salmon! Kodiak Island is home to several red (sockeye) salmon runs, making your Alaska fly-fishing vacation a very productive one. King (Chinook) salmon have been found in fresh waterways this time of year too, but mostly in remote locations that would require a fly-in fishing charter. Two of the most famous rivers for Alaska fly-in fishing are the Karluk and Ayakulik Rivers. Surrounded by untouched wilderness, these wide open rivers are a fly-fishing angler’s dream.

In August, Pink salmon begin their spawning runs and can be found in almost every water way on Kodiak Island. Book your trip at an Alaska fishing lodge during August and you’ll have your work cut out for you hauling in Pink after Pink! This is also a good time for beginner fly anglers to try the sport as these fish are hungry and easy to hook. You can also find Silver (Coho) salmon near the end of August but they’re much bigger and easier to catch in October after the Pink runs die down. The fall is also the best time to fish for Steelhead and Rainbow trout.

Saltwater Salmon Fishing

Kodiak Island has many deep inlets that are well-protected from the open ocean and home to both bait fish and salmon spawning runs. If the salmon are not on a spawning run themselves in these areas, then they have arrived to feed on the bait fish. Though the timing of these runs vary on different areas of the island, anglers can fish for King (Chinook) salmon as well as Silver (Coho), Pink, Sockeye (Red) and Chum salmon generally anywhere along the coastline.

Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska 3King salmon are the trophy fish of choice with record catches weighing 50 to 90 pounds! You can land King salmon any time of the year, but the biggest can be caught in May through August when they come into the region to feed.

In July and into late August you can take advantage of the high concentration of silver (coho) salmon, especially if there are spawning baitfish in the area. Catch red (sockeye) salmon runs from mid-May through mid-August. Silver (coho) arrive in numbers in mid-August and can be caught into September. You’ll find Pink and Chum salmon around the island’s coast in July and entering the interior waterways in early August.

Try your luck at the Annual Kodiak King Salmon Derby that runs April through May, with special derby competitions happening outside of the City of Kodiak in May and again in July. Not only does this derby offer anglers a chance to compete for impressive prizes as they try to reel in the largest King salmon, it is also an opportunity to support the region’s salmon fishery. Proceeds from the Kodiak King Salmon Derby are donated to a local salmon enhancement project conducted by the Kodiak Regional Aquaculture Association and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Kodiak Island Halibut Fishing

Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska 4Alaska halibut fishing vacations are rewarding in the Kodiak Island region. Record weights for halibut caught by sportfishing anglers is up to a colossal 400 pounds, though sizeable halibut weighing around the 100-pound mark are more frequently caught. You can go for these “barn-door” sized halibut any time of year, but you’ll get the best activity and perhaps bigger fish in July and August. Since salmon runs are also populous during this time, you can make the most of your Alaska fishing holiday and go for both! Your saltwater fishing trip will also produce ling cod and a variety of rockfish.

Discover the Wild

Sportfishing on Kodiak Island, Alaska 5Two-thirds of the island is made up of the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. This protected area also spans onto other islands that are a part of the Kodiak Archipelago. Not only does the refuge contain protected rivers and streams for all five species of Pacific Salmon and other species of fish, they are also the nesting ground for 250 species of birds. You will also find mammals like the native Kodiak brown bear, red fox and river otters along with deer, mountain goats, elk, reindeer and beaver.

This wilderness is absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, backpacking and biking will take adventurers through dense Sitka spruce forests, along mountain ridges and through meadows of alpine wild flowers. If it’s a water adventure you’re after, explore miles of coastline and protected bays in a kayak on a guided paddling tour. Or, if you prefer to see the island at a quicker pace, travel through the backcountry on an ATV excursion and discover areas of the island that are seldom visited.

Discover the wild on Kodiak Island, it’s stunning wilderness and all there is to see and do.

Kodiak Big Timber
4.9
37 reviews

Editor’s notes

Kodiak Big Timber offers world-class fishing for halibut, lingcod, all five species of salmon, rockfish, and more are available just minutes away. Elk, Sitka Blacktail Deer, Foxes, and the world-famous Kodiak Brown Bears make their home here with us on Raspberry Island. Hunters, fishermen, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts can quickly immerse themselves in nature. Our on-suite cabins offer breathtaking views plus all the comforts of home! Our staff prides itself on our service and professionalism. We want our clients to feel welcomed as part of the Big Timber Family while they are here. Note: Under new management. Veteran Operated

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Saltwater, Freshwater (rivers) | Guided + Unguided (4-1 guest-to-guide ratio) | Fly fishing (World-class fly fishing is available during your stay)


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. Amazing Wildlife: Bald Eagles, sea otters, whales, and puffins are directly out front from the front porch. Roosevelt Elk, Foxes, Sitka Blacktail Deer, and Kodiak Brown Bears make their home here with us on Raspberry Island.
  2. No Combat Fishing: Our location means no crowds and very little competition for fishing. We are within minutes of the most productive fishing grounds in the world.
  3. Professional Staff: Kodiak Big Timber is Navy SEAL veteran operated, with 23 years of wilderness leadership experience. Our clients can rest assured that they are in good hands when they adventure with us. Safety and professionalism are our highest priorities.
  4. Highly Customizable: Kodiak Big Timber has options for adventures other than fishing. Big Game Transports, Hiking, Kayaking, Photography, Whale Watching, and Wilderness Leadership courses are just a few options available during your stay with us.
  5. New 15-Passenger Van: We will pick you up from the Airport or a local hotel and bring you to the boat!

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$999.80
CA$1,348.18
£780.56
€915.14
pp

Port Lions Lodge
4.7
139 reviews

Editor’s notes

Port Lions Lodge is a premier, full-service Kodiak Island lodge that offers comfortable accommodations, first-class family style dining, and breathtaking views of the stunning natural beauty of Kizhuyak Bay and the Kodiak Mountains.

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Saltwater, Freshwater (rivers) | Guided (4:1 guest-to-guide ratio) | Fly fishing


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. Remote

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$800.00
CA$1,078.76
£624.57
€732.26
pp

Kodiak Island Resort
4.9
19 reviews

Editor’s notes

Kodiak Island Resort is a remote, world-class sportfishing lodge on the western side of Kodiak Island, adjacent to world famous Katmai National Park. Small groups (max 8 guests) allow them flexibility to facilitate each guest’s personal needs and requests. Outstanding fishing, magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife and four-star service, plus they pride themselves in treating guests like family. Save an average of USD$174.80 per person when you book through fishlodges.com.

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Saltwater, Freshwater (rivers) | Guided (3:1 guest-to-guide ratio) | Fly fishing


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. More fish: Kodiak Island is world famous for the best fishing waters of Alaska
  2. No rough seas: We are able to fish the numerous bays and can always get out of the wind
  3. No long boat rides: We are always able to fish close to the lodge
  4. Newly constructed lodge: New and elegant guest accommodations
  5. Spacious guest suites: Each guest room has two full sized beds and a private bathroom
  6. Our boat: Comfortable 14-foot wide state of the art catamaran fishing boat
  7. No crowds: Fish in areas often with no one else in sight. No crowds or combat fishing
  8. Our location: Larsen Bay is the hidden gem on the Emerald Island of Kodiak
  9. Bag limits: Liberal Daily Bag limits for halibut, salmon, ling cod and rockfish
  10. Beautiful scenery: Kodiak Island is Alaska’s most diverse and majestic area
  11. Abundant wildlife: Whales, brown bears, puffins, sea lions, sea otters can all be seen in one visit

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$949.00
CA$1,279.67
£740.90
€868.64
pp

Save an average of

US$43.70
CA$58.93
£34.12
€40.00
per person when you book through fishlodges.com

Editor’s notes

Kodiak Wilderness Adventures features probably the most comfortable lodge on Kodiak Island, and all the amazing fishing that Kodiak Island is known for, including some truly gargantuan halibut. But their best feature may in fact be their custom-built 38′ sport fishing boat “Amy Lorese”. Given that you’ll be spending 80%+ of your fishing vacation on Kodiak Island on the water, this is something to definitely consider.

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Saltwater, Freshwater (lakes), Freshwater (rivers) | Guided | Fly fishing


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. We are a small lodge catering to only one group of 4-6. We can cater the trip to your requests—fish for all species or only the ones you Want. The lodge is on the first floor—lodge area and deck are yours—we live on the second floor and serve meals there as well.
  2. Our boat is extremely comfortable—40 ft with lots of room for fishing and comfortable interior with head.

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$830.00
CA$1,119.21
£648.00
€759.71
pp

FishHound Expeditions
4.9
156 reviews

Editor’s notes

In addition to a more traditional lodge experience (but perhaps still incomparable, as it’s deluxe in every way despite being exceptionally remote), Fishhound Expeditions offers something fairly unique: multi-day, fly-in, float expeditions into wild Alaska.

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Freshwater (lakes), Freshwater (rivers) | Guided (2:1 guest-to-guide ratio) | Fly fishing


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. Truly wild Alaska river float trips. We supply you with almost everything you will need for an amazing, comfortable fishing trip in to the Alaska Wild.
  2. Our owners are the guides, the guides are the owners.
  3. All of our river locations meet our standards of receiving very limited pressure, clear healthy water, and wild fish whether you choose to fish one day or ten!
  4. Our gear is handmade or purchased specifically to fit in helicopters, which allows us to bring incredible freshly prepared food, great comfortable camp scenes with cots & pads, separate sleeping tents for clients, specific cooking/eating shelters, and lots of room for beer/wine.

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$580.00
CA$782.10
£452.82
€530.89
pp

Editor’s notes

Completely off the grid and rustic, Driftwood Wilderness Lodge offers an incredibly remote, yet all-inclusive experience without having to travel that far (Kodiak Island is relatively easy to get to). There’s a fantastic saltwater fishery, with catch limits greater than elsewhere in Alaska. Owner Nick Blanco built the lodge by hand himself, and his enthusiasm for the healing power of the wilderness is apparent, as is his knowledge of where to find abundant fish to fill your freezer. Extremely reasonably priced, and a fantastic value for what you get. Save an average of USD$99 per person when you book through fishlodges.com.

Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States | Fly-in


Saltwater, Freshwater (lakes), Freshwater (rivers) | Guided (6:1 guest-to-guide ratio) | Fly fishing


All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip Fishing trip includes equipment Fishing trip includes fish processing All-inclusive fishing trip All-inclusive fishing trip

What makes it unique

  1. Driftwood Wilderness Lodge is off the grid and is built on the premise that all of us can benefit from the healing power of the wilderness.
  2. We will not lie, DWL is rustic and totally off the grid, but that is why it’s so special. The air and water are pure, and the scenery is amazing.
  3. If this sounds good to you, you’ve come to the right place for a great hunting and/or fishing experience at a reasonable price.

PER-DAY packages start at:
US$595.00
CA$802.32
£464.53
€544.61
pp

Save an average of

US$24.75
CA$33.37
£19.32
€22.65
per person when you book through fishlodges.com

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