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Chasing Chrome on the Peninsula

Heli fish the Best of the Kenai Peninsula!


If you live to chase chrome steelhead here’s one that is a bit different. Alaska is legendary for its abundant Pacific salmon runs, oversized aggressive trout, huge halibut, and iconic crab fishing—and steelhead fishing is no exception. With great fish numbers, diverse angling opportunities, minimal fishing pressure, and stunning fall weather, we believe Alaska offers one of the best steelhead experiences you can find anywhere. Whether you're a diehard specialist or a first-timer, you'll find unmatched fishing in one of the most breathtaking settings you can imagine.

Alaska Steelhead Company operates from late August and runs a short nine-week season into late October. You’ll have four species to chase during your trip. Steelhead is the focus, as well as Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Late silver salmon may be possible in the earlier September weeks. Guests will commonly fish three productive rivers during their stay with two days of optional Heli fishing in the upper limits of drainages that have no other means of access.

The Fishing:

The smallest river is only accessible on foot, making it a hidden gem with minimal pressure. Fall brings stable conditions, ideal for easy wading and nymph rigs, though swinging flies with switch rods is also effective. Just 15 minutes from the lodge, it’s perfect for half-day trips, and you’ll fish it for 2 or 3 days during your stay.

The second river is larger and teeming with steelhead, offering great fishing for all skill levels. Wading can be tricky, but expert guides and inflatable kayaks make access easier. Nymph rigs are most effective, but swinging flies will also produce. A 40-minute drive from the lodge, expect to fish here for 1 or 2 days.

The final river is the crown jewel, boasting the Peninsula’s largest steelhead run. Glacial-fed and unaffected by weather, it ensures prime fishing conditions. Drift boats provide access, with options to nymph from the boat or wade and swing flies. With shallow waters perfect for Spey casting, it’s a delight for two-handed anglers. Just 15 minutes from the lodge, you can fish this river more often if you prefer drift boat fishing over wading.

The Lodge:

The Lodge and guest cabins are situated on the best run of their most prized steelhead river, offering convenient and private boat access for drift boats and power drifters, ensuring guests can reach prime fishing waters with ease. They own a substantial amount of acreage on both sides of the river for guests to enjoy for fishing and streamside lunches. The views of the river are spectacular, morning, day, and night. Whether you are enjoying one of the many outdoor living areas or in the comfort of the lodge or cabin, it’s the perfect setting to relax after a day of fishing.

The Main Lodge has 5 Single Occupancy Rooms with private bathrooms, a dining room for up to 14 guests, a fireplace, a bar, and plenty of outdoor seating to take in the views. Each cabin has two beds, a full kitchen, a private bathroom, a washer and dryer, and a front deck with outdoor seating. All lodge rooms and guest cabins are complete with Wi-Fi and satellite TV. They also have a masseuse on staff daily if you wish to take advantage of this service.

At a time when high-quality steelhead fishing is becoming rare, Alaska Steelhead Company continues to deliver exceptional, diverse opportunities. Alaska’s steelhead populations remain strong, consistent, and plentiful. For true steelhead enthusiasts, there may be no better place anywhere to chase these incredible fish.

Contact Tom Gilliand to hear more about this awesome trip and see open dates.


Ask The Expert


Senior Program Manager

Specializes in Alaska and Canada fishing, South America fishing, and big game programs.


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