Summer is arguably the best time for Alaska trout fishing. The days are longer, the weather is more predictable, and most importantly, the fish don’t seem to let up. Although we have an abundance of Pacific salmon, rockfish, and halibut near Favorite Bay Lodge, there’s nothing quite like trekking the freshwater rivers searching for Dolly Vardens, cutthroat, and steelhead. Our slice of angling paradise has a relatively high concentration of trout, and so many guests place them at the forefront of their retreat. As such, we’d like to help you prepare for the trout fishing adventure of a lifetime on Admiralty Island. It never hurts to do a little research, even when you’ll be with some of the best Alaska fishing guides on the “Last Frontier!”
Alaska Trout Fishing | Steelhead
Steelhead is the name given to rainbow trout who return to the river to spawn after spending time in the ocean. While many of our friends in the lower-48 have caught freshwater rainbow trout, not many people have had an opportunity to land these seafaring varieties. The most notable characteristic of these anadromous—able to live in fresh or saltwater—fish, is that they are much larger than their freshwater cohorts. Furthermore, they take on a different color pattern that resembles chrome more than a rainbow, hence the name, steelhead.
Alaska Trout Fishing | Dolly Varden
Also known as char in some parts, Dolly Vardens can be easily mistaken for rainbow trout, thanks to their minor resemblance. Much like rainbow trout and steelhead, Dolly Varden trout are found in salt and fresh water, but most of our local specimens prefer the meandering rivers of Admiralty Island. Those that remain within the freshwater tributaries will have an olive coloration with red markings, with males displaying a vibrant combination of white, red, and black on their underside coupled with bright orangish-red spots. Females share a similar coloration with their male counterparts, however not as bright.
Alaska Trout Fishing | Cutthroat
Possibly one of the most widely distributed trout besides rainbows, cutthroat are especially popular among fly fishers. Their name is derived from the distinctive red pattern underneath their jaws. With colors varying between gold, green, and gray, many different patterns define cutties. The best way to tell the difference between cutthroat and other trout is their basibranchial teeth beneath their tongue.
Alaska Fishing Lodges: All-Inclusive Resort Vacation Packages
Now that you have a better understanding of some of our most coveted freshwater salmonids, it’s time to start planning your Alaska trout fishing adventure! Whether you enjoy fly fishing or using a spinner, one thing is for sure; you’ll have plenty of opportunities to reel in a personal best or cross a new fish off your bucket list. For more information or to make a reservation, please reach out to us online or call 866-788-3344.