RBF, or the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, reported a significant milestone for fly fishing in 2023. It reached over 80 million participants for the first time.

The sport’s mental and physical benefits are well-reported. The problem is it can be difficult to get into.

What if there were a way to help get over that initial learning curve? What if it also allowed you to experience some of the best fishing and the most incredible natural beauty in North America?

Read on to learn what to expect from a guided fly fishing tour in Southeast Alaska.

How to Prepare

Fly fishing tours provide almost everything you’ll need beforehand. You should take a few steps to prepare for the best experience.

Getting a license is one of the most important things you’ll need to do before setting out on your excursion.

Purchase an Alaskan Non-Resident Fishing License for $15. A one-day sport fishing license is enough. You can buy one from the State of Alaska’s website the day of your trip.

Bring layers of clothing for variable water conditions and a water-resistant jacket. Check the weather the day before your trip to get a better idea of what you’ll need to wear.

Other helpful items to bring include:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Hats
• Waterproof cameras
• Bug spray
• Sunblock
• Cash

Physically prepare yourself for the trip as well. Make sure you can walk in waders for at least one to two miles without help.

The Fly Fishing Equipment

Before you start your tour, you’ll be fully outfitted with all the necessary fly fishing equipment.

This includes all the best flies and tippet materials for the location you’re going to and the fish you’re looking for. You’ll also get rods and reels from quality brands such as:

• Echo
• Sage
• Ross

Waders are another crucial component when fishing in remote areas. They’re available in a range of sizes for children and adults.

Rain jackets will be provided if needed. You’ll also get a variety of snacks and refreshments.

Flying Out

After a pre-trip briefing, you’ll board a floatplane. Gliding over beautiful landscapes is one of the best parts of the experience.

The experienced guides will develop an itinerary because they know the best places to fish and when. They’re also experts on all other aspects of fly fishing, including:

• Casting techniques
• Fly selection
• Optimal fishing techniques

The presence of these experts makes fishing trips fit for anglers of any skill level or preference. The guides will provide instruction and pro tips. They’ll ensure the experience you’re looking for without struggling to catch anything.

The Different Types of Fish to Catch

Alaska is known for its salmon. Southeast Alaska has more salmon than any other region in the state and the world.

Several types are found in Southeast Alaska. They are among the most sought-after catches on fly fishing trips.

The best time to catch them is when they return to their home rivers to spawn. Knowing their schedule helps you plan your trip. Come when you know you’ll see the species you want.

Pink salmon arrive in late June or early July and stay throughout most of the summer.

Silver salmon are a more challenging catch. They arrive in mid-to-late August through October.

Chum salmon spawn in late June. Sockeyes and pink salmon arrive in July or early August.

Other species you may encounter on your tour include:

• Rainbow trout
• Steelhead
• Dolly Varden char
• Coastal cutthroat trout

The Different Types of Wildlife to Spot

Remote fly fishing trips aren’t only about the fish. They allow you to go into an untamed wilderness you’ve likely never seen before. That gives you a chance to encounter unique wildlife in its natural habitat.

A few of the many species you could see include:

• Bald eagles
• Brown and black bears
• Sitka blacktail deer
• Humpback whales

They’re like a bonus, the icing on top of the cake. In one day, you can enjoy the fun of a fishing trip and the beauty of the local wildlife.

Different Types of Tours

One of the best parts of guided fly fishing tours is that there isn’t only one option. They come in several flavors, and you can pick the best one for you.

You can choose from full-day or half-day trips depending on how long you want to be in the water. You can also customize the tour if you have specific excursion goals.

Full-Day Fishing Fly-Outs

Full-day fishing trips last approximately eight and a half hours and require a minimum of two people.

These trips give you a chance to go out farther and fish longer. They also often involve one to three miles of hiking. You’ll get to experience more of the region’s beautiful landscape.

Half-Day Fishing Fly-Outs

One of the most popular options is half-day fishing trips. They last about five and a half hours. They also require a minimum of three people.

These trips work as a medium ground. They’re the “Goldilocks” option where everything is just right, not too long but not too short.

Custom Trips

You can also get a custom fly fishing tour in Southeast Alaska. A floatplane can meet you almost anywhere in the region and pick you up to get started.

Expert guides will take you to the fish you want to catch and the wildlife you want to see. It’s a practical option if you know exactly what you want from your trip.

Go on a Fly Fishing Tour Today

A guided fly fishing tour in Southeast Alaska is one of the best ways to experience the area’s beauty. You’ll get all the right materials and instructions from expert guides. All you have to do is enjoy the fish and wildlife you’ll spot along the way.

Bear Creek Outfitters was established in 1996 and remains the longest-serving guiding service in Alaska. Our fly fishing and bear-viewing opportunities send viewers to the farthest reaches of the Tongass National Forest.

We provide a safe and fun way to enjoy Southeast Alaska’s landscape. Schedule a guided tour today.