United States

Rapids Camp Lodge

Alaska
Species
Trout, Rainbow Trout , King Salmon, Silver Salmon, Grayling, Pacific Salmon, and Chum Salmon
Destination Type
Fly Out Lodge
Fishing Style
Dry Fly, Jet Boat, and Wading
Season
June - September
Fishing Days
6
Rate
$$$$

Why We Go

  • As a Sage Experiences Outfitter, you'll enjoy premium Sage and RIO Products tackle available for your use that is perfectly matched to the fishery.
  • State’s widest flying radius with three DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes for unparalleled access. 
  • Diverse fishing options: Katmai’s trophy trout, Becharof’s remote char and salmon, and Naknek’s rainbow trout. 
  • Single-occupancy accommodations with private bathrooms for added comfort. 
  • Fully inclusive packages with private transfers and charter flights, Sage rods/reels with RIO lines, flies, and alcohol provided. 
  • Exceptional dining, featuring gourmet meals paired with private-label wines. 

Overview

Rapids Camp Lodge is a conveniently located, full-service fly-out lodge offering one of Alaska’s most diverse and exciting fly-fishing programs. With fine single accommodations for up to 10 guests, exquisite meals, and a welcoming lodge bar, it’s the perfect retreat for both individual anglers and exclusive groups of 8 to 12. 

Anglers enjoy access to renowned rivers like Brooks, Moraine, Battle, and American, along with secluded char and salmon waters at the base of the Alaska Peninsula. During early and late seasons, the focus shifts to the Naknek River’s legendary “rapids,” where large, supercharged rainbows in the 5- to 10-pound range provide an exhilarating challenge. Complimentary gear and instruction ensure a rewarding experience for all skill levels. 

With a fleet of three Beavers and state-of-the-art jet boats, the options are limitless—whether you’re chasing silver or king salmon, trophy char, or untouched wilderness rainbows. Rapids Camp Lodge is a premier destination for those seeking thrilling fishing adventures in the heart of Alaska’s pristine landscapes. 

Fishing Program

With three iconic de Havilland Beavers and a focus on exclusive, small-group experiences, Rapids Camp Lodge offers one of the most exciting and diverse fishing programs in Alaska. Catering to just ten guests per week, this premier lodge takes full advantage of its exceptional aircraft fleet to explore the legendary fisheries of Bristol Bay, Katmai, and the untouched wilderness of the southern Becharof regions. 

Positioned just downstream of the famed “rapids” of the Naknek River, anglers have immediate access to a world-class trophy rainbow trout fishery. Early and late in the season, the rapids come alive with massive, hard-fighting rainbows, ideal for those who love to wade and fish in a steelhead-inspired style—or for those who prefer boat-based action. The Naknek is also home to one of the planet's largest sockeye runs and prolific numbers of king, pink, and silver salmon. 

Every day is an adventure, with fishing venues ranging from jet-boat journeys to scenic raft float trips and remote walk-and-wade hotspots. This variety ensures there’s something for every angler, from those chasing acrobatic silver salmon to those seeking trophy char and rainbows in rarely touched waters. 

Rapids Camp Lodge’s fleet of aircraft ensures that guests spend less time traveling and more time immersed in the action. With endless possibilities and access to Alaska’s most prized fisheries, this is the ultimate destination for anglers seeking unparalleled adventure and unforgettable fishing experiences. 

Accommodations

The lodge offers luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining on a tranquil 60-acre property along the Naknek River, hosting up to 10 guests per week. The main lodge features eight single occupancy rooms, each with a private bath, while an adjacent home provides two single rooms, a shared bathroom, and a cozy living area ideal for groups or families seeking more privacy. 

Amenities include a hot tub, sauna, workout facility, fully stocked bar, darts, shuffleboard, wireless internet, satellite television, and an on-site masseuse, ensuring relaxation and entertainment after a day on the water. 

Dining is a highlight, with two professional chefs crafting exceptional meals, from fresh salmon to tender steaks. Breakfast and lunch are ordered each morning from a curated menu, with guides packing lunches for daily outings. Guests fishing the home river may return to the lodge for lunch. Special diets can be accommodated with prior notice. 

Evenings begin with hors d'oeuvres and a signature cocktail, followed by thoughtfully prepared and plated dinners paired with private-label wines. Freshly baked pastries, bread, and rolls elevate each meal, while a licensed bar offers a selection of house spirits, beer, and wine, with the option for guests to prearrange specialty beverages.

Additional Experiences

Rapids Camp Lodge offers more than just world-class fishing, it’s a gateway to the stunning natural wonders of Alaska. With its rare ability to cater to a wide range of eco-adventures, the lodge creates unforgettable experiences for anglers and non-anglers alike. 

Guests can embark on flightseeing tours over breathtaking glaciers and volcanoes, explore pristine hiking trails, or enjoy intimate encounters with Alaska’s incredible wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. The nearby 4.2-million-acre Katmai National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, where visitors can witness iconic scenes like bears snatching leaping salmon from the falls at Brooks River, depending on the season. 

Another must-see is the awe-inspiring Valley of 10,000 Smokes, a unique landscape where glaciers and volcanoes collide in a spectacle of raw nature. 

For relaxation, the lodge offers yoga sessions and massages by appointment, ensuring guests leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Rapids Camp Lodge provides an exceptional balance of adventure and comfort, making it a perfect base for exploring Alaska’s untamed wilderness. 

Itinerary

  • Day 1: (Thursday)- If unable to arrive in Anchorage before noon on Friday, arrive in Anchorage and overnight (independently arranged, not included).
  • Day 2: (Friday)- Meet with the lodge expeditor who will transfer guests to the charter flight to King Salmon (included in package). Upon arrival in King Salmon, a lodge representative will be waiting and shuttle guests roughly 15 minutes by vehicle to the lodge. Once at the lodge, settle in and prepare your gear for the following day.
  • Days 3– 8: Six full days of guided fishing with fly-outs specific to your package and prevailing weather conditions.
  • Day 9: After breakfast at the lodge, guests will transfer to King Salmon for the charter flight back to Anchorage (included in package).
  • Note: Departing flights arranged same day (Friday) should be scheduled for departure after 5:00 PM.

Rates & Details

2026 Rates: Per person based on single occupancy and shared guiding

  • 7 night/6 day package: $12,000

Included: Anchorage pickup/drop off, round trip flight between Anchorage and King Salmon, transfers to/from the lodge, accommodations, meals and beverages including house spirits, beer and wine at the lodge, welcome drybag/water bottle, lodging tax, guiding, fly-outs (per your invoice, if a fly out package was purchased - weather permitting), demo fishing equipment (Sage rods/reels and RIO fly lines), any loaner tackle including waders, boots and flies.

Not Included: Round trip airfare to Anchorage, accommodations and meals in Anchorage, fishing licenses, gift shop items, staff and guide gratuities

Species: Rainbow trout, Arctic char, grayling, five species of Pacific salmon, Dolly Varden

Season: June to September

Capacity: 10 anglers

Recommended Tackle

Fly Water Q&A

Who is best suited to this destination?
This is a great trip for any angler seeking a quality Alaska experience. The fishing program is diverse and can cater to both experienced and beginning anglers. The lodge can target all five species of salmon, both resident and lake-run rainbow trout, grayling, Dolly Varden and Arctic char. With numerous jetboats, rafts, and hike-in options the lodge has something for everyone and a willingness to develop an itinerary based on guests’ preferences. The fishing program combined with a high level of service, very comfortable accommodations and an all-inclusive package makes this a great destination for all.  

Where is the lodge?
The lodge is located seven miles outside the community of King Salmon, along the shores of the mighty Naknek River, about a 1-hour flight from Anchorage. 

How do I get there?
If able to arrive at the Anchorage airport on Friday before noon, a lodge expediter will meet guests at the baggage claim and transfer them to the lodge plane for the flight to King Salmon. If not able to arrive prior to noon on Friday (the standard transfer day) anglers should plan on arriving on Thursday and overnight at one of the many hotels. The lodge expediter will pick up guests on Friday morning at their elected accommodations and transport them to the included charter flight to King Salmon. Upon arrival in King Salmon a representative will meet and transfer all guests the 15 minutes to the lodge. On the departing end, they will transfer you back to Anchorage and airport or hotel of your choice.  

When should I go?
There is not a month that does not offer great opportunities. For the largest migratory rainbow trout June/July or September/October are great but August offers the best overall catch rates and more diversity of rainbow trout waters. King salmon fishing is best in June to mid-July and silver salmon fishing is best in August to early September. With a long list of systems and species to target, opportunities are abundant throughout the season. 

How will I fish?
All tactics can be employed here and what anglers do specifically will depend on the timing and the target species. Tactics range from two handed Spey fishing for large migratory rainbows to fishing conventional tackle for king salmon and everything in between. They have the gear and the knowledge to show guests all that Alaska has to offer. 

Is there wade fishing?
Yes, as little, or as much as their guests would like. 

Where will I fish?
The Naknek River is right out the front door and harbors some of the biggest rainbow trout in the state. Also, on their menu are many of the renowned Katmai Park rivers like Moraine, Battle, Brooks, and American Creek. They also fish several “unnamed” systems and even fly south to the base of the Alaskan Peninsula and up north to the Nushagak. Rapids Camp is willing to fly further than most outfitters to get their guests into the best fishing. 

How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
From right out the front door to about an hour’s flight. Rapids Camp has a large radius surrounding the lodge that they are willing to cover, from the Alaskan peninsula to the Nushagak and into Katmai Park, Rapids Camp has an incredible variety from its centrally located home base. 

What type(s) of fish will I catch?
Rainbow trout, Arctic char, Dolly Varden, grayling, king salmon, chum salmon, sockeye salmon, pink salmon, silver salmon and even northern pike and lake trout can be encountered at various times of the year.  

How many fish will I catch?
Rainbow trout catch rates can range dependent on angler ability but a dozen quality trout a day is great for most and potentially lots more. Expect other species like Dolly Varden, Artic char, and grayling to add to your totals. Salmon species can be dependent on catch limits and what tactics are employed with the silver salmon being the most fly friendly.   

Will I see other anglers?
Yes, guests should expect to see others but if there is a willingness and the ability to hike and seek more solitude Rapids Camp has places for this.  

What are the guides like?
The guides range from very experienced to new, as is typically the case in Alaska. In my experience all have been hard working and eager to please. 

What are the physical demands?
This is a trip for all. The lodge can accommodate folks with limited mobility and those who prefer to hike all day. There are great options to fish from the boat all week if you prefer, or if a long hike into a remote stream is more your fancy, Rapids Camp can make it happen. 

Are there any special skills required?
No 

Does the lodge provide equipment?
Yes. As part of Sage Experiences the lodge can provide all the needed fishing equipment including waders and rubber soled boots.  

What is your favorite setup for the trip?
This will depend on the season, but for trout a sturdy 7-weight is a great all-around tool here. There are also great opportunities for Spey anglers, whether it is for the super-charged rainbows on the home river or for king salmon on the Nushagak or down the peninsula. A 13- to 14-foot Spey rod that can throw a 600-to 650-grani Skagit head with heavy tips is the best king salmon set up. A 7-weight Spey rod is great for the fall lake-run rainbow action. Sockeye, chum, and silver salmon all can be targeted well with a single hand 8-weight.  

What are the top flies?
Much of this will depend on the target species and time of the year. The lodge provides all the needed flies and equipment so no need to pack along all your fly boxes. For trout, I like to bring a few Morrish mouse patterns, smolt and fry imitations for the early season trout fishing. Egg imitations, mostly beads, will have you covered in August and for late in the season, sculpin and black leech patterns are great to have on hand for large trout. I would rely on the lodge for most of the salmon specific patterns but happy to discuss in depth with anyone interested in bringing along some flies.   

What are the options if water/weather conditions become challenging?
If flying is not an option due to weather the lodge has a great home river with jet boats available to take all guests fishing.  

What is a typical day like?
Each evening the head guide will sit down to discuss the next day’s options and itinerary. The details of departing time, which guide guests will fish with and where they are going will be posted after dinner. Guides will ask each guest after dinner which beverages they want packed for lunch the next day and discuss what rods/gear to bring. If anglers do not have their own rods, the guide will bring them along. Typically, coffee is ready at 6AM, breakfast served around 7AM, then depart for fishing around 8AM. Guests return between 5 and 6PM, appetizers will be ready and then dinner is served around 7PM. 

What is the general vibe, atmosphere, and style of the lodge?
The lodge is relaxed, and the overall atmosphere is casual. They have a large bar with tender and house liquor stacked and included in the package. Draft beer and lodge label wines are also included. Guests and staff mill around this area chatting, enjoying the drink of the day with appetizers, playing shuffleboard, darts, or foosball. Or enjoy the couches with a river view and use the Wi-Fi. 

Is there an on-site owner, manager, or other point-person at the lodge?
Owner’s Dan and Amy Herrig are on site to help coordinate the stay. The head guide will describe fishing options and share their knowledge and what to expect each day. Along with Dan and Amy, the guides and lodge staff have always been very friendly, so please ask if there is anything they can assist with. 

Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
All meals are served in the dining area of the main lodge. The lodge employs two professional chefs, and the meals are well thought out and top notch. Breakfast is made to order from the thoughtful menu. Lunch is ordered while at breakfast.  It’s a mix of specialty sandwiches with sides of, chips, fruit, and snacks. The guide will carry lunch for that day, or if fishing in the home river, you may return to the lodge for lunch. The dinners are truly a highlight, with a mix of local seafood and quality meats. From BBQ night to crab night, guests certainly will not go hungry…did I mention the desserts? If there are certain dietary restrictions, the lodge can cater to these and are happy to do so. 

What is the alcohol policy?
The lodge has its own liquor license. Per state law, guests are not allowed to bring in their own spirits. With that said with advanced notice the lodge can have most guests’ favorites on hand upon arrival and it can be paid for on site. They have a decent selection of standards, and the bar is tended each day. Beer and wine are included and expect a drink of the day as an option each evening.  

Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
All guests are treated to their own room. There are eight lodge rooms with private bathrooms and a house that can sleep two or a group of up to four.  

Is there internet and/or cell service?
The lodge has good internet service, but it is not of the quality of the lower 48. Cell phones likely will not work, but that may change and will depend on your carrier. 

Are there other activities?
Flight seeing and bear viewing. Guests who enjoy hiking can tour many scenic areas of Katmai Park and Becharof Wilderness. The lodge is great at coordinating each day to suit your desires. 

Are there any other expenses?
Fishing licenses and gratuities.  

Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances?
While in Alaska guests need to be aware that brown bears are likely around. The guides and staff are well versed in how to fish around and be safe with bears. Katmai Park service offers a free bear class at Brooks Fall for any guest interested. Mosquitoes can be abundant in the early season. Additionally, there are risks associated with flying in small aircrafts and boats.

Curated Destinations with World-Class Tackle.

Sage Experiences offers a curated suite of destinations that pairs world class fishing with state-of-the-art tackle. We are thrilled to present this exciting new destination demo program designed to offer guests an elite travel experience. During your stay with any Sage Experiences Outfitter, you will have onsite access at no extra charge to the ideal Sage and RIO outfits for the fish you're targeting. Even if you're the type of angler who likes to fish your own gear, rest assured that once you arrive, our premium set ups will be ready and waiting for you to demo onsite at any time during your stay.

SAGE EXPERIENCES

As a Sage Experiences Outfitter, Rapids Camp Lodge eliminates the guessing game when it comes to preparing your tackle and instead provides an exciting new destination demo program designed to offer guests an elite travel experience. During your stay with any Sage Experiences Outfitter, you will have onsite access at no extra charge to the ideal Sage and RIO outfits for the fish you're targeting. Even if you're the type of angler who likes to fish your own gear, rest assured that once you arrive, our premium set ups will be ready and waiting for you to demo onsite at any time during your stay.

Learn More

RAPIDS CAMP LODGE - SAGE EXPERIENCES PROVIDED TACKLE

As a Sage Experiences Outfitter, Rapids Camp Lodge is an elite outfitter that has committed to offering their guests onsite access to first-class Sage and RIO tackle that has been carefully curated to ideally suit their respective fisheries.

Rapids Camp Lodge Perfect Setups:

  • SAGE R8 CORE 691-4
  • SAGE TROUT 6/7/8
  • RIO ELITE RIO GRAND 6WT
  • SAGE TROUT SPEY G5 4113-4
  • SAGE TROUT SPEY 3/4/5
  • RIO ELITE INTEGRATED TROUT SPEY 4WT
  • SAGE R8 CORE 890-4
  • SAGE ARBOR XL 6/7/8
  • RIO ELITE RIO GRAND 8WT