Who is best suited to this destination?
Anglers who enjoy technical swing fishing small waters for oversized wild steelhead and want to improve their steelhead skills in an intimate and hands on guiding experience. The more physically fit the angler is, the more opportunities they will have over the course of the day by covering more water. The weather can be harsh and wet, and anglers should expect to walk good distances and may need to clamor over trees to reach the most productive pools.
Where is the lodge?
The lodge is located in Klawock on the west coast of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska.
How do I get there?
You will fly to Ketchikan, Alaska and take a short commercial flight to Klawock, Alaska. Upon arrival you will be met by a representative of the lodge and ground transferred 20 minutes to your accommodation.
When should I go?
The spring Alaska season is short, running from the beginning of April to the first week of May.
How will I fish?
Their preferred method for fishing is swinging flies with spey, switch, and single hand rods. Like many of the winter steelhead fisheries in the Pacific Northwest, flows and water levels will be the biggest factor in the day’s fishing and tactics. Anglers can expect to move between Skagit lines with tips and Scandi lines and mono-leaders depending on the pools and conditions on the ground.
Is there wade fishing?
This is exclusively wade fishing.
Where will I fish?
Numerous small to medium sized rivers on Prince of Wales Island.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
All fishing beats are accessible by vehicle from 5-minutes to 1-hr from the lodge.
What type(s) of fish will I catch?
The primary target is wild, spring-run steelhead that average 8- to 10-lbs, with some larger individuals found each season. There are also healthy populations of Dolly Varden, Coastal Cutthroat trout, and resident rainbow trout.
How many fish will I catch?
Anglers should set their sights on an opportunity at a fish per day as a good day.
Will I see other anglers?
It is not a private fishery, and there are some anglers that fish the larger systems, and then the smaller rivers have very little pressure.
What are the guides like?
The program is ran by David Renton of Renton River Adventures, and he offers a highly personalized, safe, and professional guide experience with decades of experience on the island. The outfitters have a deep understanding of the intricacies of this fishery, and a profound love and enthusiasm for the area.
What are the physical demands?
While the wading is generally easy, anglers should be prepared to cover lots of ground on foot, often over uneven terrain. The more physically fit you are, the more water you will be able to cover and the more opportunities you will have.
Are there any special skills required?
This program is intimate with hands on guiding, and the perfect venue for anglers to advance their angling skills and build confidence to tackle larger rivers.
Does the lodge provide equipment?
The outfitters can provide all fishing tackle and flies are included in your package, but anglers are required to bring their own waders and rubber soled boots, as well as encouraged to bring two high quality rain jackets.
What is your favorite setup for the trip?
The two primary set ups are a 9’6” 7-weight single hand rod with a floating line, and a 12’6” 7-weight with appropriately matched Scandi line and Skagit line with a range of sinking tips.
What are the top flies?
Having a range of sizes, colors, and weights of steelhead flies is the most important part of fly selection to cover a wide variety of water conditions. The outfitters have an excellent assortment of the most effective patterns, and they supply them as part of your package.
What are the options if water conditions become challenging?
Like coastal winter steelhead fishing in the Pacific Northwest, water conditions are highly variable, and your guide will be taking you to multiple locations that fish under various water conditions. Due to the diversity of fishing options, it is rare to miss a full day of fishing due to weather, but if the rivers are blown out there are no other activities available.
What is a typical day like?
A made to order classic American breakfast is served at 6:00 AM. By 7:00 AM guests will get their waders on and depart the lodge for fishing. You will make your own lunch at the lodge’s lunch bar that the guide will bring along for the fishing day. Fishing is typically from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and you will return to the lodge at 5:30 PM to be ready for a communal dinner at 7:00 PM.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge?
Taking only 4 anglers per week, the lodge setting is warm, welcoming, intimate, and casual. There may be other guests at the lodge, but not anglers on the same program. The lodge has been recently renovated and has a hot tub, sauna, fitness room, and fire-pit gazebo.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge?
David Renton, the head guide, will always be available, and the owners are onsite at the lodge.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
Breakfasts and dinners feature quality, hearty homemade table fare built with love by an onsite chef. You will make your own lunch at the lodge lunch bar and will eat it riverside during the day.
What is the alcohol policy?
Anglers are encouraged to bring their own alcohol for the week. No alcohol is served or sold at the lodge, but it is available for purchase. For guests arriving into Klawock before 6:00 PM, there is a liquor store near the lodge. If you arrive after 6:00 PM, you can place an order ahead of time with the outfitters and reimburse them with cash upon arrival.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
The lodge is a charming and welcoming family atmosphere that prides itself on its Alaskan hospitality. All rooms are set up for double occupancy with modern en-suite bathrooms, and single rooms are available for additional charge upon request that is paid onsite at the lodge.
Is there internet and/or cell service?
The lodge has fast and reliable wireless internet, and cell coverage through AT&T and other carriers that use AT&T towers. Service is limited while out fishing and the guides all carry satellite in-reach in case of emergencies.
Are there other activities?
No, this is a fishing only program.
Are there any other expenses?
All alcohol, single room upgrades, guide and staff gratuities.
Do I need a visa?
No.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances?
This is a wild and remote corner of Southeast Alaska. While there are many paved roads that give the appearance of a controlled environment, this destination is off the beaten path and good bear sense, and strong footing should be paid attention to while out fishing.
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.
