Sapsuk River Camp

For many anadromous anglers, the dream is simple: a small, wild river teeming with sea run fish in a place so remote it feels untouched. The Sapsuk River—also known as the Hoodoo or Nelson River—delivers just that. Tucked away on the rugged Alaska Peninsula near Nelson Lagoon, the Sapsuk is a gem: intimate in scale, yet rich in opportunity. It sees strong, consistent runs of king and silver salmon that arrive fresh from the Bering Sea—fish that are powerful, aggressive, and eager to take a fly. And as the season wanes, steelhead enter the river, adding another thrilling chapter to this already remarkable fishery. 

The river’s modest size makes it a Spey caster’s delight, with a well-placed two-hander often reaching the far bank. What truly sets the experience apart is the exclusivity: the lodge hosts just six guests per week during salmon season and in the fall only steelhead season four guests will visit camp. It’s a rare blend of solitude, quality fishing, and personalized attention. For those seeking Alaska’s wildest and freshest anadromous fish, the Sapsuk stands as one of the most compelling and coveted destinations in the state.

Anglers fish two per guide and meet each evening to review conditions, discuss goals, and plan the next day’s strategy. Breakfast is served around 7:30 AM, with boats heading out shortly after—though later starts are easily accommodated, especially with productive water just steps from the lodge. The Sapsuk is a small, highly fishable river, ideal for both Spey and single-hand anglers. Jetboats allow for quick, flexible access to some of the river’s best water, including the renowned Weir Pool where guests often spend significanttime. The king salmon run begins in June and continues through July; silvers arrive in force from August through September, followed by steelhead from late September into mid-October.

Guests at Sapsuk River Camp stay in well-appointed, insulated Weatherport tents set on raised platforms along the river’s edge. Each tent is designed for double occupancy and comes equipped with twin beds, complete with pillows, linens, and cozy down comforters—ensuring a warm, restful night no matter the weather. A separate tent is dedicated to drying waders and storing gear, while a shower facility with hot and cold running water keeps guests clean and comfortable. Clean, well-maintained outhouses round out the camp's practical amenities. 

The camp is thoughtfully organized and kept warm, dry, and impeccably clean. Each evening, guests return to hors d’oeuvres and a drink of their choice, often enjoyed by the outdoor fire pit that overlooks the vast Aleutian basin—a perfect place to unwind and take in the view. 

Mornings begin with hot, hearty American-style breakfasts, and lunches feature freshly made sandwiches, chips, snacks, and drinks. Dinners are satisfying and generous, with a rotating menu of fresh fish, chicken, beef, or pork, complemented by salads and pastas. It’s a comfortable and welcoming base in the heart of a remote and wild landscape.

Day 1: Guests will arrive in Anchorage and overnight at their elected accommodations (independently arranged, not included) 

Day 2: In the morning, guests will take their charter flight (not included in package) to Nelson lagoon.  Transfer via boat to camp and get settled. 

Days 3 - 8: Six full days of guided fishing. 

Day 9: Guests will depart camp for Anchorage where they will overnight (independently arranged, not included) or continue home.  

2026 Rates: Per person based on double occupancy and two-to-one guide ratio 

King Salmon Season:

• 7 night/6 day package: $6,750 plus $2,250 round trip charter flight

Silver Salmon Season:

• 7 night/6 day package: $6,500 plus $2,250 round trip charter flight

Steelhead Season:

• 7 night/6 day package: $7,000 plus $2,250 round trip charter flight
  

Included: Accommodations, meals, guided fishing, boat transportation to/from fishing areas, limited wine with dinner 

Not Included: Airfare, charter flight between Anchorage and the Nelson Lagoon, gratuities, fishing license, liquor, personal gear, tackle and equipment 

Species: King salmon, chum salmon, sockeye salmon, silver salmon, steelhead

Season: June - October

Who is best suited to this destination?
This is a destination best suited for guests who appreciate productive salmon fishing, simple accommodations, and food. Those who are comfortable in remote environments and are not in need of much service or amenities will get the most out of this operation.  

Where is the lodge?
The tent camp sits overlooking a great home pool on the Sapsuk River which is located on the remote Alaska Peninsula. The river is about 80 miles east of Cold Bay, AK.  

How do I get there?
Guests fly into Anchorage and overnight. The lodge-coordinated charter flight will depart Anchorage and arrive in Nelson Lagoon. From there guests will be boated across the bay and upriver to camp. The boat ride takes some time and be prepared with the correct clothing.  

When should I go?
Mid-June to mid-July for king salmon, August to mid-September for silver salmon and mid-September through October for steelhead.  

How will I fish?
During king season expect to swing large flies with single hand or Spey rods with sink tip lines. For silver salmon casting and stripping streamers with single hand rods it the best tactic. For steelhead guests can once again use light Spey rods or single hand rods with sink tip lines while swinging flies.  

Is there wade fishing?
Yes, nearly all fishing can and will be done while wading.  

Where will I fish?
Guests will use jetboats to travel the Sapsuk River to productive water.   

How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
A short walk gets to the river and once in the boats, expect to travel only a few miles for king salmon. During silver and steelhead season, expect to travel a few more miles of river to reach the productive runs.  

What type(s) of fish will I catch?
Depending on the time of your trip, all five species of Pacific salmon, Dolly Varden and rainbow trout.  

How many fish will I catch?
King season should have guests having a couple of interactions each day. Silver season can have incredible numbers of fish hooked. During steelhead time, once again, a couple of interactions each day would be considered good.  

Will I see other anglers?
Yes, expect to see a few other anglers during the salmon season. During steelhead season seeing others is uncommon.  

What are the guides like?
The guides here are experienced outdoors people and accustomed to operating in remote environments.   

What are the physical demands?
The physical demands are negligible, but guests need to get in and out of boats and wade. The wading is not challenging. This is a remote environment, so best not to take any unnecessary risks.  

Are there any special skills required?
No 

Does the lodge provide equipment?
No, this is a trip where guests will need to provide all their own equipment. 

What is your favorite setup for the trip?
For king salmon a 12 to 13 foot 9 weight Spey rod. For silver salmon an 8 weight single hand rod in the 9 to 10 foot length is best. There are some trout and Dolly Varden, so if you want to target them throw in a 9 foot 5 to 6 weight rod. 

What are the top flies?
King salmon require large profile intruder style flies with size 1 or 1/0 trailing hooks. These should be chartreuse/blue, blue/black, pink/black and orange/black. For silver salmon a pink starlight leech. Add a few poppers or wogs in pink for surface fishing too.  

What are the options if water conditions become challenging?
Guests will have to wait for improvement if conditions are unfishable.  

What is a typical day like?
Breakfast begins your day and fishing starts soon after around 8AM. The fishing days will end in time for appetizers before dinner. Expect dinner around 7PM. There is lots of time of fish unguided during king season as the days are long. You are welcome to do so, but it is recommended to fish unguided with a partner.   

What is the general vibe, atmosphere, and style of the lodge?
This is a relaxed camp atmosphere.  

Is there an on-site owner, manager, or other point-person at the lodge?
The staff consists of three guides and a camp host/chef for the total of six guests.  

Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
Breakfast and dinner is served in the communal dining tent. Lunch will be served riverside. Meals are filling but simple. Expect local seafood, pasta dishes and protein dishes mixed between beef, pork, and chicken.  

What is the alcohol policy?
The camp does not sell or provide alcohol. Guests can pre-order spirits (before June 1) for an additional cost and it will be waiting for you at camp. Guests are also free to bring along their favorite beverages but must adhere to the weight restrictions on the charter flight.  

Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
The accommodations at the riverside camp are insulated, heated, solid platform constructed Weatherport structures. Guests sleep in comfortable beds, with a full complement of linens, comforters, blankets, and pillows. A small, quiet generator along with solar panels provides electricity 24/7. There is a bath-house style shower facility with on demand warm running water and an outhouse on site. 

Is there internet and/or cell service?
No. There is a satellite phone for emergencies.  

Are there other activities?
No.  

Are there any other expenses?
Fishing license and gratuities are not included.  

Do I need a visa?
No. 

Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances?
The closest major hospital is Anchorage. There are no immediate medical services in the area. Transfer to medical care can be slow. Please assess your medical problems before booking. There are also bears, moose and other wildlife in the area and always be aware of your surroundings.  

We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center for Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.