Discover the thrill of Alaska fly fishing, where crystal-clear rivers and abundant fish provide an unforgettable angling experience!
The Upper Kenai River represents the crown jewel of Alaska fly fishing. This pristine stretch flows gin-clear from Kenai Lake, creating perfect conditions for sight fishing to trophy rainbow trout. These magnificent fish, often exceeding 20 inches, cruise the pools and runs while readily taking well-presented flies.
After the June 11th opener, the Upper Kenai offers consistent action throughout the season. Spring finds rainbows actively feeding on salmon smolt and emerging insects. Summer brings excellent dry fly fishing during salmon fly hatches, while fall provides trophy trout opportunities as fish gorge themselves on salmon eggs and flesh.
Choose from our most popular package options:
Each package combines multiple days of guided fishing, targeting different species and locations throughout your stay. The longer durations provide flexibility to target multiple species while adapting to weather and fishing conditions.
Located in Cooper Landing, our lodge provides the perfect basecamp for accessing the Kenai Peninsula’s finest fishing. Within an hour’s drive, you can reach the Lower Kenai River’s legendary King salmon waters or Seward’s world-class halibut fishing grounds. The Upper Kenai River flows past our front door, while the famous Russian River confluence sits just minutes away. Our central location also puts you within walking distance of local restaurants and shops.
Spring provides active trout and the first King salmon, with moderate temperatures and good water conditions.
Summer offers nearly round-the-clock fishing under Alaska’s midnight sun, with all salmon species available at different times.
Fall brings trophy trout opportunities and silver salmon action with spectacular colors and comfortable fishing conditions.
Our guides provide quality fly fishing equipment suited to Alaska’s larger fish and varying conditions. However, anglers are welcome to bring their gear:
Our experienced fly fishing guides possess intimate knowledge of our rivers and the techniques needed for success. They understand the seasonal changes, fish movements, and fly patterns that produce yearly results.
Whether you’re an experienced fly angler or looking to learn the sport, our guides ensure you’ll have the instruction and opportunity needed for success.
We practice catch-and-release for all rainbow trout, ensuring these magnificent fish remain available for future generations. When salmon fishing, we use single-hook flies and careful handling techniques to minimize impact on both keeper and released fish.
Drifters Lodge is a small, locally owned and operated fishing lodge with a long history of repeat guests and satisfied anglers. We have been in operation since 1998.
Drifters Lodge is permitted to operate on public lands under special use permits from the Chugach National Forest, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and Alaska State Parks. Drifters Lodge is an equal opportunity provider.
© 2024 Drifters Lodge. All rights reserved.