Located on the Naknek River, Bear Trail Lodge has some of the state’s most remarkable trophy rainbow fly fishing just minutes from their dock. The local rapids section of the Naknek River is especially good early and late in the season, and holds great appeal to anglers who like to fly fish in a traditional steelhead fashion with spey rods.
With a fleet of planes at their disposal, anglers are able to access some of the finest fly-out fly fishing the state of Alaska has to offer. Bear Trail Lodge has an excellent king salmon program as well as a very good coastal program targeting silver salmon. The lodge strives to have one guide for every two anglers. Fishing venues vary widely from days spent fishing from jet-powered aluminum boats, raft trips, and remote walk and wade venues best suited to the physically fit. At times anglers may fish from boats, but the majority of fly fishing is done while wading.
Each evening after returning from fishing, guests in the main lodge will enjoy wonderful appetizers along with complimentary beers and wine. The head guide will be on hand to discuss the day’s fishing and make suggestions on what fisheries are producing the best, taking into account your wants and needs, and make a fishing plan for the next morning, all weather dependent. With different aircraft and aerial access to dozens of different fisheries within a 150 mile radius, there is sure to be a spot to please any angler.
After a great night’s rest, fresh coffee is available and ready in the main lodge by 6:30AM. A full buffet breakfast is laid out in the dining room at 7:00AM and typically includes fresh fruit, baked goods, yogurt and hot or cold cereal. Our chefs are always happy to make guest 'eggs to order' and if you have any special request, we're happy to try and accommodate them.
After breakfast, you’ll return to your cabin, slide into your waders, grab your tackle, and take the short commute to the float plane dock on the Naknek River where your guide, pilot, and aircraft will be waiting. You’ll usually have a different guide every day, each of whom is a specialist on specific waters and understands the subtle changes in insect hatches, water temperature, etc.
You and your guide will take a scenic flight to your chosen stretch of water for the day, often sighting moose and bear from the air. You may be hiking a small stream and casting dries to rising fish, using a jet boat to access remote runs on a small river and swinging streamers, or floating downstream in an inflatable raft, wading freestone runs and sight fishing to monster rainbows in gin clear water.
Lunch is served on the stream, usually sandwiches, salads, hot soup, cookies, fruit, candy, chips, etc.
Returning to the lodge after a full day of fishing, arms weary of reeling in fish, you'll be greeted by the lodge staff with cold tap beer or a glass of red or white wine. Maybe you opt for a hot shower and then back to the bar and lounge for mouth watering appetizers, more complimentary beer or wine or a delicious cocktail, all followed by a gourmet meal. They serve only the finest meats and wild game and have fresh produce delivered to the lodge weekly. With the freshest halibut and salmon available, the chefs continue to create delicious culinary delights. They thrive in preparing exciting, yet hearty creations with ingredients from gourmet vendors from all over the country.
