Plan for a Rainbow Trout Fishing Outing on Alaska's Waters

If you want to go rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to be. With its pristine wilderness and seemingly untouched waters, the fish are available in abundance. But, before you plan your next or first fishing trip to the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, keep reading for some tips and tricks that will help your fishing expedition go a little smoother.

Be Aware of Your Fishing Seasons

Technically, rainbow trout fishing season in Alaska runs from mid June to the last day of October. But, as most anglers know, that doesn't mean you can just stand in a river during that time and expect to catch a fish. You need to know where the fish are traveling and where they'll be when you want to find them. For up-to-date information on trout travel, check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Have a Guide

Hiring a guide will not only help keep you safe, but will also save your fishing trip. A guide can do a lot more than provide equipment and help you to navigate the Alaska waters - they can also point you to the best-kept secret fishing spots for rainbow trout fishing. Alaska guides need to be licensed, so always look for a qualified and registered individual.

When choosing a guide, select one that provides all the tools and equipment that you'll need on your trip (instead of lugging it on the plane). Also, inquire about the accommodations, food and experience level of the staff. Some recommended companies include Alaska NW Charters (yacht fishing charters), Alaska Outdoor Adventures, and Puffin Alaska Fishing Charters.

While researching prospective guides online is a great idea, you should always call the person or lodge and speak to them directly before you book. You'll likely be committing several days in a boat with this individual, so you want to make sure you get a positive vibe and a sense that the person meshes with your fishing personality.

Acquire a Fishing License

Typically, most guides will either arrange your license for you or possess a blanket license that covers you as a passenger of their boats. If you're not heading out with a guide who does this, you'll need to purchase your own license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. You can buy it online and should expect to pay $55 for a weeklong license or $145 for yearly access to the Alaskan waters.

In addition to obtaining a license, you must follow several other state rules and regulations regarding sport fishing. For example, you can't sell fish that were caught by sport fishing, nor can you export them unless they're properly prepared for transport. You're also limited in the type of equipment you can use. To review these regulations, contact the Fish and Game office directly or check out their website.

Know What to Pack

Typically, your guide or lodge will supply you with your gear and equipment for fishing. However, you may have to bring your own waders or certain small supplies. Before you depart, you should ask your lodge or guide to supply you with a packing list that's season specific. Regardless, when packing for Alaska, you need to be prepared for any weather system.