Alaska

Alaska Steelhead Co. Spey School w/ Simon Gawesworth

Kat Mueller April 28, 2026

This fall, anglers are invited to join Simon Gawesworth for an immersive three-day Spey casting school set in the heart of Alaska.

Alaska Steelhead Co. Spey School w/ Simon Gawesworth

The Alaska Spey School is hosted at Alaska Steelhead Co.’s new lodge. Guests will enjoy comfortable, newly built accommodations alongside a focused, hands-on learning experience designed to improve both confidence and efficiency on the water.

The Alaska Spey School offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from Simon Gawesworth, one of the most respected instructors in the sport. Throughout the program, guests will gain insight into how Spey casting can be used as a highly effective tool for targeting steelhead across a variety of river and creek systems, from broad, powerful flows to smaller, technical water.

The curriculum is structured to benefit anglers of all skill levels. Beginners will build a strong foundation by learning core casting mechanics, line control, and an understanding of line design, tapers, and proper applications. More experienced anglers will have the chance to refine their technique, troubleshoot common inefficiencies, and develop a more polished and consistent casting stroke.

Instruction is delivered through a thoughtful blend of classroom sessions and on-the-water practice. Early sessions focus on fundamentals and theory, which are then reinforced through guided casting and fishing scenarios. The program culminates in two full days of swing fishing instruction, where guests will apply what they have learned while targeting the dependable runs of steelhead returning to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.

The school takes twelve students and only offers double-occupancy rooms; there are no single rooms available.

Head Instructor: Simon Gawesworth

Group Size: 12 students (9 spots left)

Dates: October 20 –24, 2026

Itinerary
October 20: Arrive in Kenai, Alaska and get transported to Alaska Steelhead Co.’s brand new lodge.

October 21: On the water casting and instruction, concentrating on Double Spey and Snap T with floating lines and sink tips, and overview of line designs and uses, including Skagit, Scandi, mid-belly, and long line.

October 22: Guided fishing with professional guides.

October 23: Guided fishing with professional guides.

October 24: Depart lodge for home.

Rate:
$3,745 per person for a 4 night/3 day school based on double occupancy

Included: Transfer between Kenai Airport and the lodge, accommodations, meals, 1 day of professional instruction, 2 days of guided fishing, rods/reels, flies and/or terminal tackle.

Not Included: Round trip airfare to Anchorage and Kenai, accommodations and meals in Anchorage, alcohol, waders/boots, fishing license, and gratuities for staff, guides, and instructors.

Alaska Steelhead Co.

For anglers interested in a diverse fall steelhead venue, consider the Alaska Steelhead Company. Located on an impressive stretch of the Kasilof River, guests can fish for as many as four steelhead systems. These rivers offer both walk and wade fishing as well as full-day floats where anglers can target wild steelhead in the 6- to 12-pound class with both swung-fly and indicator techniques. Additionally, this easy-to-reach, high value, and high catch-rate venue features some of the nicest accommodations in the state featuring well-appointed and comfortable rooms in a complex near the main lodge complete with lounge and dining area.

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Contact Kat Mueller

Kat grew up in a fishing-obsessed family and remembers only one vacation in her youth that wasn't centered around chasing fish. She has spent most of her adult life fishing across Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah, while working behind the scenes with top lodges and outfitters to help their guests get the most out of their time on the water. An accomplished creative, Kat’s photography and writing have been featured in The Drake and other notable publications. While she is well-versed in all forms of fresh and saltwater fly fishing, she is first and foremost a two-handed steelhead angler. Her experience includes countless weeks on the Olympic Peninsula, the Snake and Clearwater rivers, and many of British Columbia's fabled waters. Additionally, Kat is a skilled rower and fly tier, and holds certifications in Swiftwater Rescue and Wilderness First Aid.

Contact Kat

Get to Know Simon Gawesworth

Simon Gawesworth’s impact and contribution to the world of fly fishing is legendary. His prolific career spans some 35 years. For those who have had a chance to learn from and fish with Simon, they will tell you that his humble, charming, and naturally delivered expertise is unmatched in the world of fly fishing.

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