Fly Fishing Gear In Alaska

Clothing For

Fly Fishing Alaska

The weather in Alaska is constantly changing. One afternoon it may be 75 degrees and sunny. A few hours later we might see rain, wind, and temperatures in the low 50s. It is not uncommon to have morning temperatures in the upper 30s & lower 40s with the afternoon warming up to 60 degrees. With this being the case, the “layering system ” is the best strategy for staying comfortable during your fly fishing trip in Alaska. This way we can adapt to whatever Mother Nature dishes out.

Iliamna River Lodge recommends starting off with polypropylene next to your skin. This is often a pair of thermal underwear. Try to stick to synthetic or synthetic wool blend as this will wick moisture away from your body.

Your second layer or alternative layer could be a medium to heavy-weight wool or polypropylene shirt, sweater or pull-over. Pull over fleece garments are also a great choice. Your third layer, if even needed, can be a fleece or wool jacket.

Your final layer will be the most important. This is the rain jacket that you choose. We recommend high-quality Gore-Tex type products. These products work the best and will protect you from both wind and rain. Waxed cotton jackets such as Filson are also a fine choice.

Anglers should also bring a few pairs of heavy wool socks. We recommend that you try on your socks with your waders in your wading boots to ensure that you have plenty of room to move your toes. Being unable to move your toes and the cramping of your feet in your boots are the biggest reasons for numb toes and cold feet.

Wading Equipment

Stocking foot waders are the only way to go. Neoprene waders have their place and work well, but Gore-Tex / Breathable waders have totally revolutionized wading equipment. They will allow your lower body to “breathe” helping to reduce moisture build up, keeping you warmer. They are also very comfortable to fish in all day. To stay warm in Gore-Tex waders simply wear fleece pants underneath. Lastly, Gore-Tex waders take up a fraction of the space that neoprene waders do, leaving you more room in your duffel bag.

Wading boots have to be NON-FELT type as required by the State of Alaska
Please, no studs or cleats as they are very hard on our planes and boats.
Also, as a service to our guests, we have a full stock of waders and wading boots available for your use at no extra charge. Just another way to make your trip as all-inclusive as possible.

Additional

RECOMMENDED FISHING

EQUIPMENT AND GEAR:

  • Day pack/backpack
  • Polarized sunglasses (Amber or copper lenses are the best)
  • Gallon Ziploc bags (keeps items organized and dry in day pack)
  • Camera
  • Tippet (0x-3x)
  • Split shot (b – bb)
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen 
  • Hemostats / Pliers
  • Nippers
  • Strike Indicators
  • Plastic garbage bags (nice for packing wet items when returning home)

The supplies above should be sufficient fly fishing gear for Alaska. If you have any questions about what to bring on the trip please contact Iliamna River Lodge.

…and we have a pro shop at the lodge!

Taking care of you from start to finish!

Not only do we consult you on gear before you come up, but we also provide a FULL LINE OF WADERS AND WADING BOOTS AT NO EXTRA CHARGE.   It’s just a service we provide for you…so leave your waders at home and come on up!

Also, if there is anything you forgot once you get to the lodge or would just like to purchase from our pro shop, we’ve got you covered  (literally).  Everything from nano puff jackets to Simms gloves and socks.

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