Fishing on the East River presents a unique opportunity for anglers of all skill levels. The river flows through diverse landscapes, offering various fishing spots ranging from tranquil backwaters to more challenging sections with currents.
Common fish species found in the East River include Sockeye Salmon, King Salmon, Silver Salmon, Chum Salmon, and Pink Salmon, as well as sea run Dolly Varden trout making it an appealing destination for all skill sets of fishing enthusiasts.
The East river is our home and maintaining respect for the river environment is crucial. Anglers are encouraged to practice catch and release whenever possible and to adhere to the local fishing rules and regulations. The East River's vibrant scenery and rich fishing opportunities provide an enriching experience for all who venture out onto its waters.
At Alsek River Adventures, we offer an all-inclusive guided fishing experience on the East Alsek River. Our package includes chartered flights from Yakutat to our river location, with no extra charges for fish processing. We also provide gourmet meals, ensuring you are well fed during your stay. Your only preparations are to arrive in Yakutat, acquire your sport fish license, and bring your own fishing gear. After that, we take care of everything else.
Our primary focus is on fishing for King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Silver Salmon, chum salmon and Pink Salmon. These species are available from mid-May to mid-October, offering plenty of chances for remarkable catches throughout your trip.
Sockeye fishing
The east river is the only fresh water system in the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve that has an abundance of sockeye to be caught. These sockeye are bright and beautiful/ While sockeye are a harder salmon to catch sports fishing that makes it a fun, but not impossible, fish to catch for the seasoned and beginner angler alike.
Silver fishing
The East river is home to some of the best silver fishing on the Southeast, Alaska coastline. The scenery alone is enough to want to come here, not to mention you wont be seeing a large amount of people coming here to fish. That is because the East river is a 25 minute bush plane flight out of the small fishing town, Yakutat, Alaska.
Pink fishing
Pink salmon are one of the most fun salmon species to be caught on a fly ! The east river has a great pink run starting in mid-July and ending the first week in August
What to bring on your fishing trip
Personal fishing rod & reel - We suggest an 8 weight rod with a floating line. Lots of fishermen use sink tip too. and many bring both.
Waterproof rain jacket - This will be one of the most important pieces of gear. Make sure your jacket can withstand 5 days of rain.
Fleece pullover or jacket
Long underwear base layer tops and bottoms
Fleece pants
Waders - Another important piece of gear. We are in our waders all day - check for leaks before you come. We personally suggest your wading boots being a size bigger then what you normally wear, you want room for your toes to move. This helps keep your feet warm.
Wading shoes (non-felted soles) - Felted soles are illegal in Alaska.
Warm, insulated socks - Our favorite socks are Darntough
Warm hat
Ballcap or fishing hat of some sort
Fishing gloves (fingerless if you chose)
Warm pair of gloves for to and from the fishing spots
Stripping tape - medical tape works too.
Jeans or travel pants for after fishing - The main guy and host wears Simms sweat pants 24/7 so its really wear what you are comfortable in!
Casual shirts for after fishing
Camp shoes -
Insect repellant - if you aren't picky on brand there are always a few bottles floating around the camp that other guests have left behind.
Sunscreen - if you aren't picky on brand there are always a few bottles floating around the camp that other guests have left behind.
Insect head net
Polarized sun glasses - We wear SMITH Guides choice - small with the polarized chroma pop brown
Reusable water bottle (we also have these in camp just ask!)
Camera
Forceps or needle nose pliers - We use needle nose pliers. You don't need anything fancy.. amazon has great options.
Line nippers
Toiletries - Please note we have towels, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in camp.
Flys & Lures - Black and white dolly llamas, Chartreuse and white dolly llamas, pink and white dolly llamas, brown and black dolly llamas, Green and white clouser, pink and white clouser, blue and white clouser - and many others work great as well.
ADF&G Fishing License
Soft sided cooler bag for taking home your fish. Please see link below or email Pat with any questions on this.
Soft sided cooler bag link - https://a.co/d/6QZMm0L
No hard coolers please
We use small bush planes to fly you from Yakutat to our place on the Alsek. Please keep your gear limited to 1 bag per person - it is best to have a soft sided bag and not a suitcase. Thank you!