Chum Salmon Fishing Guides

A deluxe 7-day trip to the best trophy rainbow river in Alaska is now available for under $7000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

A trip to the best trophy Rainbow Trout river in Alaska is now available for under $4000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy Rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

Our King Salmon Season kicks off with our early run on May 15th and will last all the way until the end of July. We fish from both Drift Boats and Power Boats and tailor our Fully Guided King Salmon Fishing Trips to the run timing and size. One day we could be fishing on the Kasilof River, and the next you’ll find us chasing them on the Kenai River. Our trips remain flexible so that we are able to provide our clients with the highest chance of success. Our team of guides are very proficient in both Fly Fishing and Conventional Fishing techniques. We offer Fly Fishing trips with a technique known as “Spey Fishing” using a two handed rod. When fishing with conventional gear for Kings, we use a variety of techniques based on the river levels and run timing, but a vast majority of that type of fishing will be done completely from the boat. We offer both half day (4 hours) and full day (8 hours) Guided Trips for King Salmon and all trips are “all-inclusive”, meaning we provide everything you need to fish with except for your licenses and stamps. After your trip, if you plan to keep fish, we will filet and prepare your catch for transport to the processor so that it can be packed and prepared to ship back home. Read More

This is the perfect trip for anglers looking to experience the true, remote, and rugged Alaskan Wilderness in its pristine beauty. Your trip includes an experienced guide, all fishing gear (but feel free to bring your own), wade boots, and round-trip 45 minute fly-outs. Just make sure to bring your chest waders, snacks/lunch, and a fishing license. You'll be fishing a number of rivers throughout the wilderness within Denali National Park depending on conditions and where the fish are biting. Read More

Escape to Ketchikan, Alaska, for the adventure of a lifetime! Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the world and as such has an epic King and Silver Salmon run every year. Warm ocean currents and spring runoff create an ideal habitat for millions of bait fish, which in return creates a perfect environment for all types of Salmon. The Halibut, Lingcod, and 20 other fish species are abundant and offer an array of fishing opportunities! Salmon Falls is your basecamp for this adventure. Your overnight package includes all your meals—all you have to do is decide the type of room to begin each new day. Matt and his team are committed to making this the best fishing trip ever for all guests! From seasoned pros to new anglers baiting a hook for the first time, they will make sure you enjoy the adventure of a life time. Their custom fleet of new boats and top of the line gear, experienced Alaskan guides, and location make for a recipe of success. With the fully-guided fishing package, one of these experienced captains will assist you on your fishing trip in one of their Riddle Marine 27.5 ft. boats, equipped with a heated cabin, standing/private heads, surround sound music, shock-absorbent seats, dual 200 Honda outboards, and an arsenal of top-of-the-line fishing gear. These guides will assist you in finding the best location, baiting hooks, reeling in your catch, and anything else you may need while aboard. Skilled fishermen? These captains are happy to step back and let you fish your way! Lunch and fish processing are included. **Fish Processing:** The best part of a fishing trip is cooking for friends and family when you return home. Once you’ve landed those salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish your job is done. Salmon Falls resort fish processing is included all of these inclusive packages. Leave the cleaning, cutting, and packaging to the expert crew of fish processors. Their onsite expert fish processors will guide you to the correct cut whether it be steaks or fillets. Be sure to note the approximate yields of each fish: Salmon 45%, Halibut 45%, Lingcod-20%, Rockfish- 15% The processing crew trims, fillets, vacuum packs, and flash freezes it for travel on your airline. Fish will stay frozen for appx 20+ hours depending on location. At Salmon Falls Resort, fish boxes accompany guest as luggage and travel under airlines weight restrictions. On departure day the onsite crew will ensure your fish is packed and ready to go and will deliver to the airport shuttle. If you plan to continue your travel before returning home, the crew can recommend shipping options for future delivery. **Accomodation:** Based on double occupancy. Double Queen, Double Full and King Suites are all options based on availability. The $100/Person Resort Fee Includes: WI-FI throughout the property Live entertainment five nights/week Round-trip airport transfers Access to the Adventure Lounge All-weather gear: waterproof jacket, pants and rain boots In-room bottled water Local telephone calls Souvenir Salmon Falls postcard with free postage (available at the front desk) **Meals:** Dinner on arrival day, three meals on full days & breakfast on departure day. Boxed lunches are provided for fishing. Breakfast, lunch & dinner are available on-site at Timbers Restaurant. **On-Site Activities:** From hiking to beach-combing, any exploration activity on-property is included in your rate. Read More

An all-inclusive trip to the best trophy rainbow river in Alaska is now available for under $5000 per person! Come experience the smolt migrations in June, the huge runs of salmon in July, the acrobatic silvers in August and the incredible trophy rainbow fishing in September. No longer will a trip to Alaska have to be ‘once in a lifetime’, because, according to Jim, a onetime shot of Alaska just isn’t going to get it done. No, for the true big fish junkie, once in a lifetime just isn’t enough. That is why the crew at Naknek River Camp has gone the extra mile to make Alaska affordable. If you're wondering why Jim gets away with listing this trip for half of most Alaska lodging/fishing trips, ret assured there is no catch; Jim keeps costs down by maintaining a family-run camp. His wife is head of housekeeping, the chef and a full time licensed guide. His older son, an avid fisherman and 4 time Michigan State Casting Champion, is Jim's right hand man around camp. His daughter has also been the Michigan State Casting Champion. She is the official camp photographer and the desert chef. And his youngest son is just starting his career as a fishing guide. His specialty is netting big salmon. Here are the several exciting species of fish you can expect to target depending on the time of year: **Early Season Fishing – June & July:** Smolting Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp. The rainbows concentrate on salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean. The best offerings include large rabbit strip and marabou leeches in black, olive and dark brown. NOT egg sucking leeches. Minnow imitations are also deadly in small to medium sizes. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In June, July and early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. Recommended Tackle: an 8 ½ to 10 foot fly rod for a 5-6 weight line. The WF floater is the most popular choice, although sink-tips (130 grain to 200 grain) will work as well. 3x to 5x tippets. Grayling at Idavain: This fishing starts out with a 1 mile hike to the better fishing grounds. Grayling are best fished with light tackle. I would use a 4 or 5 weight fly rod with a floating line. #12 and #14 adams, caddis and stoneflies (dry), small beadhead nymphs, leeches, woolybuggers and deer hair mice will all work here. Kings: These begin showing up mid-June, building throughout the month. Most of the fishing is down in the lower Naknek, where tide is important and the water is deep. Treble hooks are legal. By late July, they will begin moving into the rapids to prepare for spawning. Single Hook Only. Recommended Tackle: We have a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning, revolving spool and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, I would recommend a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. Sockeye: Chrome sockeye begin their trip from the ocean around June 20th. This migration continues until late July (timing varies, of course, depending on weather). Until the spawn in mid- August, sockeye will hold in slow pools and side channels. They are usually turning red by early August. Recommended Tackle: A 6-8 weight fly rod in 9’ to 11’ lengths with a Climax Zip Line is by far the best choice. A floating line with either a strike indicator or a few split shot will also work well. **Late Season Fishing – August & September:** Rainbows on the Naknek: The best rainbow fishing is close to camp and in the rapids. The rainbows will still take salmon smolt and leeches migrating downstream to the ocean, but by far the biggest food source is salmon eggs. Sockeye eggs are 6mm, silvers and pinks are 8mm and kings are 10mm. Sometimes, oversize imitations work better. I like trout beads mottled beads in orange, dark roe and pinks in sizes 6mm – 12mm. Don’t forget #8 and #10 short shank hooks and toothpicks (or the clear plastic pegs). For leeches, I like articulated and bunny strip versions without eggs in front in black, olive, purple and flesh colors. Wool head sculpin also work well. Late in the season, flesh flies might be needed. Rainbows at Brooks: Brooks is flies only. In early August, rainbows will eagerly take mice, dead drifted small dries, sculpins and leeches. By mid to late August, the sockeye spawning kicks in and 6mm – 8mm plastic beads are king. Margot Creek: This is some of the best arctic char/ dolly varden fishing around, along with a decent population of rainbows. The stream is full of sockeye spawning by mid August, so beads are at great bet here, with or without a fly following behind. All the same patterns listed for Brooks work well here as well. If the water is discolored, 10 and 12mm beads are deadly. The rest of the time, 6mm and 8mm work best. Silvers: By early August, silvers should be running into the Naknek on each high tide. Bright marabou streamers in purples and pinks and other bright colors, spinners in sizes 3-5 in pink, orange, chartreuse, and silver all work very well at times, as do wiggle warts in the same colors. Lots of local guides prefer jigs in 1/8 and 1/16 ounce in pink and purple, fished with or without an indicator. When they get spooky, however, nothing compares to a shooting line, a very small split shot or 2 and a small marabou streamer (like a woolybugger or PM Wiggler) in black, purple, pink, olive and cream, fished on 2x-3x fluoro. The best rods are 9 ½-10 ½ for a 7wt or 8wt. Line. I would want to have a shooting line, a floater and, possibly, a 200 to 300 grain sinking tip. For spinning, a 7 ½ med light rod, a reel with a smooth drag and 8 – 12 pound test line is best. Pinks: Every even year is a pink year on the Naknek, which means that 2012 will likely bring another strong run starting in July and continuing into mid-August. They are extremely aggressive, hitting all of the flies and lures listed for silvers, and then some. Small silver spoons and spinners work very well also. They are in the 3 to 6 pound range, and so can be a lot of fun on a little lighter tackle. Light spinning rods with 8 pound line or fly rods in the 5-7 weight range are perfect. Same lines as silvers. Kings: Early in August, the kings begin moving to their spawning areas, either up the feeder streams or in the rapids of the main stream. King season closes at the end of July, but many will be hooked throughout most of August. They must be immediately released, of course. Most of the spawning area is single hook only. Large streamers, small marabou streamers and large eggs all work well. Sockeye: Reds are thick in August and most of September. They are either spawning, or holding in slower seams waiting to spawn. The river and creek mouths around Naknek Lake will also be full of them. **Lodging:** The lodging for this trip includes hard sided cabins, real mattresses, a porch to enjoy the sunset and a hot shower at the end of the day. Also equipped with a nice kitchen to cook in, a dining room to enjoy great meals in, and a toilet in every cabin. Naknek River Camp also has a few conveniences that neither one of us expected to have in the Alaskan bush, including phone service for both us and our guests. There is road access to the towns of King Salmon and Naknek, offering medical services, a general store, groceries and even fishing and hunting supplies. **What's Included:** A private riverfront cabin, all food and meals in your own comfortable dining room, and transportation to and from the King Salmon Airport. The cabins include towels, pillows and linens. Just bring your PJ’s, your toothbrush, your fishing gear and your sense of adventure. Jim will supply everything else. **What to Bring:** Jim has a lot of heavy rods and reels – spinning and fly – that guests can use. If you want to bring some, he would recommend: June & July: a 7 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting, a 9 foot spinning or casting rod with 30 pound braid for back-trolling and a 9’ for a 10 or 11 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line. August & September: a 7-9 foot spinning rod with 30 pound braid for casting and a 9 ½ for a 9 or 10 weight for flyfishing. The fly reel should employ either a 400 – 600 grain sink tip line, a floating line with a strike indicator, or a Climax Zip line (or other suitable shooting line). Other equipment needed or recommended: Split shot in sizes b, bb and 3/0. Cone sinkers in 1/64th, 1/32nd, 1/16th, tapered leaders in 0x and 3x, fluorocarbon tippet in 2x – 5x, strike indicators in both 1 inch foam and yarn style, #12 black barrel swivels, forceps, nippers, floatant, brown or amber polarized sunglasses with strap, hat with brim, rain jacket, chest waders, wading belt, some like a wading staff, fleece pants, fleece sweater(s), wool socks, windproof fleece fingerless gloves, headnet, insect repellant, sun screen. REMINDER- felt soles are illegal in all of Alaska! Please make sure you have rubber soled wading boots. Read More

Head out with Captain Jerry for an exciting day of bay fishing! Rockport and Corpus Christi are home to several productive inshore bays and canals that are prime spots for catching some tasty Gulf fish without a lock trip from the dock. On this trip, Captain Jerry will take you out on inshore waters such as the Corpus Christi Bay, Aransas Bay and Redfish Bay where you'll be going after exciting bay fish such as Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, and Speckled Trout. You'll be targeting these fish using light tackle, heavy tackle, or by doing some bottom fishing. Whether you're a newbie or experienced angler, Captain Jerry will accommodate to your skill level and provide plenty of expert guidance to put you on the fish! Live bait is not included in the trip price but can be purchased at the ramp or on the way out into the bays from the local bait me. Captain Jerry will supply all rods, reels and tackle. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp for those over 16 years of age, sun protection, and any food and drinks you might want on the water. Captain Jerry will take care of the rest! Read More

Come fish with Captain Tommy, a Full Time USCG licensed Texas fishing guide, as you venture into the waters such as Aransas Bay, Redfish Bay, Copano Bay, and Mesquite Bay just to name a few. You will target redfish and black drum in the flats as well as the marsh of St Joseph Island. Captain Tommy runs a 22' Alweld Bay Boat with a brand new 2022 150 hp Yamaha 4 stroke outboard jet drive. This means no propeller. Captain Tommy is sea grass friendly and you will be fishing water so shallow that other boats can't fish. So c'mon enjoy !! With an annual mean temperature of 71.1 degrees, almost everyday is a good day for fishing in Rockport Texas. Rockport also boasts an average of 288 sun-filled and rain-free days, and winter-time temperatures commonly in the 70s and 80s. This mild climate makes for comfortable Texas saltwater fishing all year round. Rockport Texas has some of the finest fishing to offer on the Texas Gulf Coast. Areas such as California Hole, Turtle Pen, Allens Bight, Lydia Ann Channel, Light House Lakes, Mud Island, and Estes Flats make this stretch of the Texas Coast a "must-fish" location for any saltwater angler. Captain Tommy will provide all the necessary gear for your trip.Bring your favorite snacks and drinks, your Texas Saltwater fishing license and some good company! Read More

Hop on board Captain John's 22' Majek and get ready for an action-packed day of fishing in Rockport! Captain John will help you target Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout. You have the choice of fishing with live or dead bait but can always fish with artificial lures if you’re up for the challenge. Should you want to wade fish, Captain John is happy to provide the advice and techniques, but you will need to bring your own wading gear. Captain John's Majek is equipped with GPS and fishfinder units along with all the safety gear you’ll need for a safe and productive trip. Expect a smooth, comfortable, and dry ride to the fishing grounds. These trips can host up to 4 people, so make sure you bring some good company! Captain John will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. He even provides live bait. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License, any drinks and snacks you’d like (preferably no glass), and both waders and wading boots if you choose to wade fish. Read More

Hit the water with Captain Jay and experience an amazing day of inshore fishing! Captain Jay will help you target Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and many more species of fish on your 4-hour (half-day) or 7-hour (full day) adventure through Rockport’s various bays and flats. He encourages his anglers to use various fishing techniques to catch the attention of those big fish. These techniques include, but are not limited to, trolling, jigging, and even popping. Captain Jay will provide everything you need for a productive day on the water, except a fishing license, which you’ll need to bring with you. Bring snacks as well. Captain Jay is passionate about introducing young people to outdoor life at every opportunity. Bring your kids aboard and, who knows, maybe one day they’ll repay the favor and bring you back to Captain Jay! Read More

Enjoy an unforgettable experience duck hunting in Rockport TX, an area not only renowned within the state of Texas, but also across the country as one of the best places to hunt due to its wide variety of bird species and the tremendous bird population. By choosing us as your Rockport duck hunting guides, you can fulfill your dream of hunting down the following species without any hassle and without the need for any former experience in hunting: Redhead, Bluebills, Ringneck, Widgeon, Pintail, Greenwing, Bluewing, Northern shoveler, Gadwall, Bufflehead, and Goldeneye. On top of that you can have one of the best chances in the Lower 48 at killing a Cinnamon Teal! Leaf's Texas duck hunting trips are fun and offer several benefits, and provide a mentally stimulating challenge to hunters as well. Duck hunting can range in difficulty but oftentimes can pose quite a challenge. Waterfowlers need to be deceptive with decoys, stay patient, and account for factors such as wind and migration patterns. Duck hunting prevents overpopulation, and in turn, preserves native biodiversity. This makes your contribution to duck hunting in Texas go beyond just the thrill of trophy hunts — you are helping out the planet. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to disconnect from our interconnected world. Many work on computer screens all day and then go home to use TV’s, laptops, phones, tablets, you name it. Technology provides conveniences, but sometimes you need a break from it—not only to feel better, but for the sake of your health, too. Duck hunting serves as a great escape to nature. A mere few hours in nature help you not only escape our digital world—but also let you alleviate stress in a positive way. Getting away from the ordinary provides an important refresher for your body and mind! All the decoys, blinds, and transportation are taken care of on the trips, all you need to bring with you is your shotgun (12 gauge recommended), steel shot shells, and waders. Leaf and his team will take care of the rest! Read More

Whether you're an experienced duck hunter or just getting into the sport, this South Texas duck hunt will be a real blast for anyone. Your guide and outfitter, Scott, has years of experience hunting the South Texas coast, and will put you right on the birds. In addition, he has a badass track record as an offshore billfish specialist and as a former professional bull rider! South Texas is smack in the center of the Central Flyway, and is a stopover for dozens of migratory waterfowl specied. The sheltered bays here draw hundreds of thousands of ducks annually, including Green-Winged and Blue-Winged Teals, Cinnamon Teals, Wigeons, Redheads, Pintails, Gadwalls, and Mottled Ducks. You can target all of these species, which are exciting quarries and great eating. Scott provides the boat, blinds, and dogs, so all you need to bring is your camoflauge, your guns, and your shells. You'll get out there before dawn, and hunt until 11 o'clock, so you can even be home for lunch! This trip can accommodate large groups, so invite your buddies! Read More

Climb aboard with Captain Jim and experience an amazing day of inshore fishing on the Texas Gulf Coast! Captain Jim launches his trips from Seadrift down to Rockport, depending on the weather, the season, where the fish are biting hardest, and most importantly: where you're located. That's right, Captain Jim is willing to travel for you to ensure you have the best fishing experience. On these 4, 6, or 8-hour adventures, you’ll mainly be reelin’ in Redfish, but Captain Jim loves to target Trout as well. On a good day, you can hit a "Texas Grand Slam" and catch a Redfish, a Speckled Trout, and a Flounder in one trip! You’ll need to bring a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp as well as some food and drinks. Other than that, Captain Jim will take care of the rest. He’ll provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait. He will also provide ice and an ice chest for your day’s catch. These trips can accommodate four people, so make sure you bring some good company! Come on down and make some memories with Captain Jim! Read More

This trip is perfect for hunters and anglers who want to do it all in South Texas! On this cast-and-blast trip, you'll hunt all morning and fish all afternoon, without breaking the bank. Your guide and outfitter, Scott, has years of experience hunting and fishing the South Texas coast, and will put you right on the birds and the Reds! In addition, he has a badass track record as an offshore billfish specialist and as a former professional bull rider! In terms of wingshooting, South Texas is smack in the center of the Central Flyway, and is a stopover for dozens of migratory waterfowl specied. The sheltered bays here draw hundreds of thousands of ducks annually, including Green-Winged and Blue-Winged Teals, Cinnamon Teals, Wigeons, Redheads, Pintails, Gadwalls, and Mottled Ducks. You can target all of these species, which are exciting quarries and great eating. Scott provides the boat, blinds, and dogs, so all you need to bring is your camoflauge, your guns, and your shells. You'll get out there before dawn, and hunt until 11 o'clock, so you can even be home for lunch! This trip can accommodate large groups, so invite your buddies! For fishing, the bays and inshore waters off Rockport are premier fishing grounds for Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and more. You'll get out there aboard his 23' Haynie center console—an ideal boat for inshore and nearshor fishing. Captain Scott will make sure you're hooked up with the best tackle to find your target species, and he'll do everything he can to help you pull a personal best over the rail, fill your cooler, or both. Read More

Head out with Captain Jerry for an exciting day of bay fishing! Rockport and Corpus Christi are home to several productive inshore bays and canals that are prime spots for catching some tasty Gulf fish without a lock trip from the dock. On this trip, Captain Jerry will take you out on inshore waters such as the Corpus Christi Bay, Aransas Bay and Redfish Bay where you'll be going after exciting bay fish such as Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, and Speckled Trout. You'll be targeting these fish using light tackle, heavy tackle, or by doing some bottom fishing. Whether you're a newbie or experienced angler, Captain Jerry will accommodate to your skill level and provide plenty of expert guidance to put you on the fish! Live bait is not included in the trip price but can be purchased at the ramp or on the way out into the bays from the local bait me. Captain Jerry will supply all rods, reels and tackle. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp for those over 16 years of age, sun protection, and any food and drinks you might want on the water. Captain Jerry will take care of the rest! Read More

Hop on board with Captain Tom and get ready for an action-packed day of fishing around Rockport! Captain Tom will help you target Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout. You have the choice of fishing with live or dead bait but can always fish with artificial lures if you’re up for the challenge. For these trips, Captain Tom uses his 21’ Shoalwater that’s powered by a 250 Evinrude engine. The boat is equipped with a GPS and fishfinder unit along with all the safety gear you’ll need for a safe and productive trip. Expect a smooth, comfortable, and dry ride to the fishing grounds. These trips can host up to 4 people, so make sure you bring some good company! Captain Tom will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. He even provides live bait. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License, any drinks and snacks you’d like (preferably no glass), and Captain Tom will take care of the rest! Read More

Captain Corey welcomes you down to the Coastal Bend to unleash the thrill of fishing in Rockport, Texas! Embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure with Captain Corey, where the pristine waters of Rockport, Texas, meet the expertise of our seasoned crew. He takes great pride in delivering an exceptional fishing experience that caters to anglers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Our friendly and knowledgeable captain boast years of experience navigating the abundant fishing grounds of Rockport. He will not only lead you to the best fishing spots but also share valuable tips and techniques to optimize your catch. Our captain is licensed, and has over 15 years of experience. Whether you're seeking an action-packed day of nearshore fishing or a serene inshore expedition, we tailor our fishing trips to your preferences. Let us know your ideal fishing experience, and we'll make it happen! To ensure an edge in your fishing endeavors, we equip our boats with the finest fishing gear and technology. From top-quality rods and reels to fish-finding sonar systems, we spare no expense to enhance your chances of reeling in the big one. Fishing is a fantastic activity for all ages. Bring along your family and friends, and create lasting memories together as you bond over the thrill of the catch. Inshore Fishing: Explore the shallow waters of the bays, flats, and estuaries as you target species like Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and more. Inshore fishing is perfect for those seeking a laid-back experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views. Read More

Captain Jason will customize your trip to your preferences. On your pre-trip call he will advise what has been working recently, but will fish the way you prefer. Fishing out of the boat with cut or live bait for reds, speckled trout or black drum. Drifting the flat with live shrimp under popping corks or lures and soft plastics. Wading shorelines with lures or live bait. It is your trip and wants you to have fun. He fishes primarily for reds, speckled trout and black drum. If you catch a limit of the targeted species or they are simply not bitting, he will always look for feeding fish to catch. His goal is to keep your fishing rods bent and you having fun for the full 6 hours. Typically he launches from Cove Harbor North next to Paradise Key Restaurant. On the pre-trip call launch locations can be changed, depending on the type of trip or bay to be fished. All launch locations changes will be agreed to by both parties on pre-trip call. For parties larger than 4 people he works either several boats to accommodate big parties. Read More