This Alaska fishing trip pack list is sure to help you get ready for your once in a lifetime fishing trip to the last frontier. The weather in Alaska can change very quickly, so having the appropriate trout and salmon fishing gear is essential. As with any fishing trip, proper packing is the key to a successful and stress-free experience. When it comes to trout or salmon fishing in Alaska during the summer, there are some essential items that you should have on your packing list and in your bag. So, let me share with you my ultimate packing list for a summer salmon fishing trip to Alaska.
WHAT TO WEAR SALMON FISHING IN ALASKA?
The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, even during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 40 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain and high winds can come and leave just as quickly as a warm, sunny day. So it’s important to pack clothing that will keep you comfortable in all kinds of weather. Here are some fish clothing items that I always make sure to pack:
- Waterproof Jacket: The chances of rain are high in Alaska, and a good waterproof jacket will come in handy to protect you from the elements.
- Other rain gear: Rain gear, other than a waterproof jacket, includes waterproof pants (or, you could use fishing waders), waterproof gloves, and a waterproof hat. Some summers in Alaska are wetter than others, and if you’re only coming for 1 to 2 weeks, it could be raining most of the time. Therefore, good rain gear is essential!
- Layered Clothing: Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day, so pack a variety of clothing options you can layer depending on the weather.
- Fishing Boots/Waders: You will be wading in the water during salmon fishing, so a good pair of boots or waders must keep your feet dry and warm.
- Sun Hat/Cap: The sun can be pretty intense during the summer, so protecting yourself with a hat or cap is essential.
- Gloves: Good gloves keep your hands warm and protected while handling salmon or equipment.
COTTON KILLS: WEAR SYNTHETICS
The saying “cotton kills” refers to how cotton absorbs moisture. Wearing cotton in Alaska is one of the worst things you can do. If you get wet, you’ll stay wet.
When wet, you’ll get cold, quickly leading to hypothermia. Therefore, stick with wool or synthetics like polyester or synthetic blends.
DON’T FORGET YOUR SALMON FISHING WADERS AND WADING BELT
Bring quality fishing waders and wear your wading belt. A wading belt cinches your waist so water won’t fill your waders if you fall into a river.
If the water fills up your shoes, the weight will make it difficult to swim or stand, which becomes a safety issue. The most popular fishing waders for salmon fishing in Alaska include:
- Orvis fishing waders
- Simms fishing waders
- Frogg Togg fishing waders
- Cabela’s fishing waders
DRESS LIKE AN ONION
Have you ever heard of the phrase dress like an onion? This means to dress in layers. If you’re wearing several layers, you can take a layer off to cool down or put a layer back on to warm up.
I like to wear at least three layers or bring three layers with me. You will be okay with having the extra clothes that are sometimes necessary for a comfortable salmon fishing trip.
ALASKA SALMON FISHING TRIP PACKING LIST
Of course, you can only go on a fishing trip with the proper salmon fishing gear. Here are some essentials that you should have with you:
- Fishing Rod and Reel: Pack a sturdy salmon fishing rod and reel suitable for the fish on the Kenai River. These salmon are larger and stronger than other rivers, so a sturdier rod is sometimes appropriate.
- Tackle Box: Pack all your favorite lures, hooks, sinkers, and other tackles in a waterproof box.
- Polarized Sunglasses: These keep your eyes safe from the intense sun and help you see clearly in the water. Read my product review of Costa del Mar’s Permit polarized sunglasses. I highly recommend them for flossing for salmon on the Kenai River.
- Fishing Line and Leader: Carry spare fishing line and leader to replace any that may break or get damaged during your trip.
- First Aid Kit: Accidents happen, so have a basic kit.
RELATED FISHING ARTICLES
ALASKA SALMON FISHING TRIP CAMPING PACK LIST
If you plan on camping during your Alaska salmon fishing trip, here are some essential items and gear that you should pack:
- Tent: A good-quality tent will keep you sheltered from the elements while camping outdoors. Please read my review of Kodiak’s 8-man canvas tent.
- Sleeping Bag and Pad: Make sure to choose a sleeping bag suitable for the correct weather conditions and pack a sleeping pad for added comfort.
- Cooking Supplies: Pack a camping stove, utensils, and dishes to prepare your meals while camping. I highly recommend Coleman’s two-burner stove.
- Flashlight/Headlamp: These will come in handy for any nighttime fishing or when you need to use the bathroom in the dark. The Petzl Aria 2 headlamp is the perfect fishing companion when you need a bright headlamp.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be pretty pesky in Alaska during the summer, so remember to pack some insect repellent.
OTHER ALASKA SALMON GEAR
Apart from the items mentioned above, here are a few other things that you should consider packing for your summer salmon fishing trip to Alaska:
- Sunscreen: Protect your epidermis from the intense sun in Alaska by packing good-quality sunscreen.
- Camera: The Kenai Peninsula is breathtakingly beautiful, so capture some fantastic photos of your trip.
- Food and Water: While there are restaurants and stores in the area, it’s always a good idea to pack snacks and water for your fishing trip.
- Fishing License: Remember to purchase a fishing license before heading out. A digital copy on your phone is also an acceptable form of displaying your license. Just make sure you have enough battery life that you can show your license if you have to. You can buy your fishing license on Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game website. Pick up a free Regulations magazine at any outdoor store such as Soldotna Hardware and Fishing and Sportsman’s Warehouse in Soldotna, Alaska.
- Binoculars: If lucky, you may spot some fantastic wildlife while fishing. So pack a pair of binoculars to get a better view.
- Toiletries: Medicines, toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush, nail clippers, etc.
Packing for a summer salmon fishing trip to Alaska requires careful planning and preparation. But with this ultimate packing list, you can rest assured that you have the best items to make your trip successful.
Prepare for an adventure using our Alaska fishing trip pack list, and experience some of the best salmon fishing in the world.
