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 onto the airport of 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 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. 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. 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 Dan Herrig is on site to help coordinate the stay. He and the head guide will describe fishing options and share his knowledge and what to expect each day. Along with Dan, the head guide the lodge staff is 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 king 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. 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 soon 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.
