Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge is the perfect wilderness fishing retreat boasting a world-famous run of all five Pacific Salmon species. Plus a host of resident fish, such as Leopard Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char and Grayling. The lodge sits along the Upper Braids’ shores of the Alagnak River, offering fly fishermen a trip of a lifetime inside the Katmai National Park. The lodge consists of one hundred and sixty acres of prime river frontage located in the most iconic section of the Alagnak, known as the Upper Braids.
The lodge is situated 55 miles upriver from the Alagnak River’s mouth, where it drains into Kvichak Bay in the Bristol Bay region of Katmai National Park. This lodge’s location is just perfect; a short 25-minute flight from King Salmon means that the lodge is far enough upstream to be well away from lodges located on the river’s lower sections. This isolation gives access to tons of water, providing the real thrill of wilderness fishing without other boats’ buzz from other lodges spoiling your solitude. Combining Wayne and his family hospitality and dedication to service with the position and unique fishing, you will be hard pushed to find a more relaxed lodge in Alaska.
Just 6 miles upstream from the lodge is where two rivers (Kukaklek and Nonvianuk) join the Alagnak. Because of the Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge prime location and a fleet of jet boats, you can access all three rivers and many species that swim through the rivers. Transport up and down the central river systems is by traditional boats equipped with powerful 50 or 60hp engines. For anyone who would like a day out to explore the lower sections of the main river, the lodge has a more powerful jetboat with a canopy and seats which can get you (50 miles away) in a little over an hour.
Alagnak and its tributaries are like many other Alaskan rivers as it has a solid run each year of all five Pacific Salmon species. The Sockeye run is the most prolific and the first fish to run quickly, followed by the Silvers /Coho Salmon. The river also has a good run of King Salmon (Chinooks) in July. Due to the distance these fish have to travel, they will have some colour; however, this does not distract from their fighting ability. Along with the Kings also comes in superior numbers (Chum), which are extremely tough fighters. If you connect with any of these Salmon in the powerful currents, you will get a fight of a lifetime. The Trout, Grayling and Arctic Char are what many guides love to fish for more than anything else. The Alagnak and its many braids offer countless opportunities to enjoy many hours chasing these species. Below we have given you a little more detail on the three main river sections you will be fishing.
This prestigious river is located within Katmai National Park, with its headwaters in the surrounding mountains and draining into Bristol Bay. It is also known as the Branch River for its seemingly endless braided river channels. Wading and fishing are accessible on the many small natural islands and gravel bars, which the river flow creates. The Alagnak has world-famous runs of all five Pacific Salmon species and is home to a host of resident fish. Crystal clear water allows for perfect stalking conditions, whilst slow runs and fast riffles are commonplace, with pools well suited to holding pods of staging Salmon, often 35+ lbs., when targeting the kings. With hatches occurring throughout the season, it is rare to see a resident Trout or Grayling rise.
Flowing out of Kukaklek Lake, the river runs 19-miles through mostly fast-flowing technical water until it reaches the confluence and joins with the Nonvianuk River to form the Alagnak. The Kukaklek is well known for its short section of narrow, class 3 rapids contained by steep canyon walls. When fishing this unique river, we spend most of our time either in the lower 5 miles or the upper 6 miles, ideal for targeting Rainbow Trout. The upper section near the lake’s mouth is excellent Trout fishing, particularly as the Salmon start to spawn.
The Nonvianuk River runs 11-miles from its mouth at Nonvianuk Lake to meet the Kukaklek River to form the Alagnak. The Nonvianuk river is mostly class 2 technical water, with many bolder gardens and shallow sections. Surrounded by rolling hills of tundra, there is a very “open feel” to the Nonvianuk River, and it is a beautiful place to fish. The upper 4 miles of this river is the most productive, and much like the Kukaklek; it holds an abundance of Trout.
Any lodge is only as good as its guides, and ATA Lodge has a solid regular guide base. All the guides are very knowledgeable about the river, environment and come very well prepared with flies, light tackle, rods, reels, everything you could need for a full day of fun on the river.
Fishing each day is based on two anglers per guide, and each evening you will be debriefed by your guide to ensure you know what to expect and confident you are prepared for whatever the next day brings. You can come as either an experienced angler or a beginner; the lodge caters to all abilities, as the guides like nothing more than teaching people and sharing their passion for catching fish. You access all the fishing by jet boats, so there is not much walking each day. The wading is easy, so everyone should be able to cope. The lodge can provide fishing tackle, excluding waders and boots. If you would like to use the lodge loaner tackle, please make sure you contact us beforehand to inform the lodge you wish to use their equipment. This way, it will all be ready for you when you arrive.
The other fantastic thing about ATA Lodge is the wildlife on this trip would be enough for a holiday in its own right; each day, you are amongst nature like you are on safari in Alaska. You will see everything from giant Grizzly Bears, Moose, Elk and Bald Eagles. ATA lodges location on the Alagnak is deep in bear country, and there is often bears within sight of the main lodge. On this Alaskan holiday, you will always want your camera on hand.
The only access to the Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge is via bush plane, landing on a private airstrip located on the property. Awaiting you are welcoming wooden cabins equipped with running water, heating, and power to guarantee you a comfortable stay.
The Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge offers two riverfront cabin packages: deluxe cabins or standard cabins. The deluxe cabins were built with two extra windows with a private bath and shower for the two guests staying in the cabin. The standard cabins have two cabins sharing one larger bathroom and shower building with outside access nearby.
All of the guest cabins, including the main lodge, have spectacular views of the Alagnak River. The Dining Lodge is the centrepiece of the camp. Its where you take your meals, share stories and socialise after a day on the river. With lounge sofas, a fireplace and a stunning view of the river and surrounding mountains, this building is the town hall of our little village.
Wooden walkways connect all the private guest cabins and lead down to our naturally sheltered dock, where a fleet of jet boats are ready to access all the best fishing spots within minutes of the lodge. The Swiss Chalet on the hill is perfect for larger parties accommodating up to 8 guests comfortably and in style, not to mention taking in the “Million Dollar View”, where you can survey the rest of the property, river and mountains beyond.
The lodge offers some of the finest cuisines in the Alaskan wilderness. Each morning begins with a hot breakfast. For lunch, you’ll choose from an array of meats, cheeses, and condiments, so that each person can construct their perfect deli sandwich or shore lunch if you prefer. Your guide will keep your sandwich, along with a variety of snacks and refreshments, in his cooler. Guides can also prepare shore lunches during the Salmon season if this is your preference.
Appetisers are served at 5:30 p.m. daily on the lodge’s deck, where you can view the river. Dinner served between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m., and the dress is casual. The dinner menu includes fresh steaks, baked Salmon, grilled lemon pepper Chicken, Italian or Mexican night and barbecued baby back ribs, and wine included. If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know in advance so that they can accommodate you.
Alaska Adventures Lodge does not sell or supply alcoholic beverages other than wine with dinner. If you wish to have alcoholic drinks during your stay, please purchase them in King Salmon and bring them with you. They can provide you with ice cubes and mixers, such as Coca-Cola, 7UP, tonic water, etc.
Although the fishing days are fixed, the below itinerary is still flexible should you require additional free days to explore at the beginning or end of your holiday; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Depart Any international Airport (See Details)
Arrive Seattle Depart Seattle
Arrive Anchorage
Once you have arrived at Anchorage you will need to head out of the terminal building where you will need to book a taxi to take you to the overnight hotel (taxi not included)
Overnight accommodation: Anchorage Hotel (Twin rooms) R/O
Early in the morning, you will take a taxi to Anchorage Airport and depart from here to King Salmon.
Depart Anchorage, Arrive King Salmon
On arrival, you will be met by the lodge staff, from there you will be collected and driven a very short drive to the local bush plane hangar. From there you will depart in groups of 4 or 5 at a time with a flight time to the lodge of approx. 35 mins. On arrival at the lodge, the staff will escort you and your belongings to your cabin and ensure that you have everything you need. After lunch, there will be a brief orientation and then you will be free to relax or feel free to wade-fish the productive riffles and pools in front of the lodge.
Overnight accommodation: Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge (Twin room) F/B
Each day starts at 7:00 am with breakfast. After breakfast, the fleet of jet boats will be ready to depart by 8:00 am. All you need to do is discuss with your guide what you would like to fish for. Fishing each day is based on two rods to one guide. If you wish we can arrange fly out trips to various destinations at an additional cost. There is no set itinerary as we like to fish for whatever you wish to target.
Overnight accommodation: Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge (Twin room) F/B
At a pre-arranged time the fishing guides will transfer you back to King Salmon airport for your internal flight.
Depart King Salmon, Arrive Anchorage
On arrival, you will take a taxi back to the Anchorage Hotel. (taxi not included)
Overnight accommodation: Anchorage Hotel (Twin room) R/O
Depending on the time of your flight, you will need to arrange a taxi back to the airport for your return flights. Speak to the reception and they will help arrange a taxi. (taxi not included)
Depart Anchorage
Arrive Seattle Depart Seattle
Arrive Home
The season runs from June to September.
Season: 20 June to 31 July
Peak: 15 July to 31 July
Weight: 10lb to 35lb
Average Weight: 18lb
Season: 15 July to 15 August
Peak: 29 July to 15 August
Weight: 9lb to 25lb
Average Weight: 12lb
Season: 20 June to 31 July
Peak: 1 July to 21 July
Weight: 5lb to 15lb
Average Weight: 9lb
Season: 25 July to 30 September
Peak: 15 August to 15 September
Weight: 3lb to 16lb
Average Weight: 10lb
Season: 1 June to 30 September
Peak: 21 July to 12 September
Weight: 1lb to 17lb
Average Weight: 2.5lb
Season: 1 June to 30 September
Peak: 1 August to 30 September
Weight: 1lb to 20lb
Average Weight: 2lb
N/A
Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.
| From | To | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31/05/2025 | 10/06/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 07/06/2025 | 17/06/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 14/06/2025 | 24/06/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 21/06/2025 | 01/07/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 28/06/2025 | 08/07/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 05/07/2025 | 15/07/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 12/07/2025 | 22/07/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 19/07/2025 | 29/07/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 26/07/2025 | 05/08/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 02/08/2025 | 12/08/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 09/08/2025 | 19/08/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 16/08/2025 | 26/08/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 23/08/2025 | 02/09/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 30/08/2025 | 09/09/2025 | 11 | £8,556 | Enquire Now |
| 06/09/2025 | 16/09/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 13/09/2025 | 23/09/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
| 20/09/2025 | 30/09/2025 | 11 | £8,381 | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation in Anchorage & twin rooms at Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharge.
Went salmon fishing with a friend and was overwhelmed by Wayne McGee's operation.
His family and staff took all the hassle out of a destination trip like this and we were able to just have fun fishing. I caught five different species of fish on my first day! I wish I could say it was skill, but it was the quality of their guides.
Great people, awesome location and a fantastic trip. I can't wait to come back...
The Alagnak River is shallow with easy wading. The accommodation is comfortable and the food was good. A family operation very hospitable.
I caught Coho everyday mostly Chums, lots of fish in the river. Rainbows, Grayling, Char also Pinks and Sockeye in my week
Hi John
Thanks for both your feedback and custom as it is always appreciated.
Also thanks for taking the time to clear up some issues that had been circulated and that were totally incorrect.
Glad to see that you caught lots of fish and I look forward in seeing all the pictures.
Talk again soon
Peter
Thanks to the hospitality for Wayne and his entire family. The fishing was wonderful from the salmon , to the trout and grayling, and the guides were very knowledgeable. The accommodations were top notch and the food was delicious. We will be back.
I have experienced dozens of Alaskan lodges over the past 25 years. I've seen the good, bad, and the ugly of housing, food, and fishing operations.
This was ATAL's first full year of operation under the McGee family's management and that made the experience even more impressive. The staff were great. They went beyond cooperative and pleasant, which you hope for at most lodges. They all went out of their way to be actively accommodating....to the point of making you feel like a welcomed family member. Also the housing was very nice, with comforts and finely finished construction you rarely see at a fly-in only location. The location on the Alagnak has abundant wildlife and scenery you could "eat with a spoon". Bring a good camera.
Conditions were tough throughout the Katmai region this summer and most rivers were well above "flood" conditions. This is when quality guides and a diverse river pay off. ATAL still managed to put me on enough trout, char, and grayling to make my arm sore by day's end. I wasn't fishing for salmon, but there were so many in the river, that I still caught several species by accident every day. This is an exceptional lodge.
We were fortunate enough to visit the ATA Lodge as a family. (2 Adults & 1 x 9 year old child) We predominantly went for the fishing but little did we know it would be so much more than that....
The accomodation's are surprisingly comfy. They are basic but have everything that you need.
There is no TV's or phone service which we found was part of the charm. Wifi is available if you need it. We choose to stay "off the grid" which we really enjoyed for a week!
Meals are shared in the main dining room & they accomodate to your specific needs if you want but generally it was whatever they were serving up. Which was always delicious. It was nice sitting in the main dining room & chatting to other fishos and the guides!
The Lodge itself is set on a picturesque bend of the Alagnak River and you really feel like you are immersed in the Alaskan wild. The flight in confirms that you are in fact immersed in the Alaskan "wild"!!
As i said, we went for the fishing and never in our wildest dreams could we have imagined it would be so good! We caught MANY species of fish, most predominantly salmon. The sockeye were running, the Kings were about. Chum were plentiful, the pinks were playing and then there were the Grayling, the trout, the Char and so much more!! We used both fly & spin gear. Our 9 year old son learned how to fly cast for the first time & so did I! My husband who has fly fished for years just thoroughly enjoyed every minute and every cast!
Then there were the bears.... Baby bears, mamma bears, papa bears and bears fishing! YES FISHING!
We saw large moose cross the river whilst eating dinner and Wolf one day while pulling into a fishing spot.
Every time we came across a bear it was a BONUS a thrill and a moment we will always remember. We saw a minimum of two bears a day, everyday and we weren't really looking for them, we were looking for fish! NEVER did we feel unsafe or scared. The Guides are amazing.
The boats are fantastic and comfortable and they tackle the fast flowing river with ease.
One day we sacrificed some fishing time to make a trip to the gorge. It was worth it, we also visited a lake, again worth it!
I could go on & on about everything we loved about this trip & lodge but in short. It was magical. It was time for my family to bond & spend quality time together in the Alaskan Wild and it is a week i will cherish forever.
We are already planning on going back.......
The guides have great knowledge of the river & all the gear however we choose to take some of our own gear and use that. The lodge staff that look after your rooms & food are extremely friendly and by the end of the week its like you have known everyone your whole life!
A few tips. If you want to take alcohol buy it in Anchorage as King Salmon is expensive and limited choice. Take layers if travelling in July. It can be very cool in the morning then quite warm by lunch! A good waterproof jacket is a bonus. TAKE A CAMERA!! A Backpack is handy for taking on the boat for the day. A waterproof one is even better!
Another great trip from Sportquest
Good Lodge and Great Staff
Richard thank you again for both your custom and reviews as they are always both very much appreciated. Looking forward in organising your next adventures.
Great place nice people but would prefer better accommodation, also the flights between King Salmon and the lodge are not great as too much waiting around
Staff and guides all first class.
Miles
Thank you so much for taking the time to complete the feedback form as your feedback and comments are always extremely useful.
Also thanks for the little tips about the Maldives I will let you know how I get on
Kind Regards
Peter
Our accommodation was good but having to share 1 toilet and 1 shower between 6 men is not really ideal and needs looking at.
The transfers from King Salmon to the lodge take too long and too much waiting around.
The staff were fantastic and nothing was to much trouble for them.
Hi Ken
Thanks for the feedback and comments, Wayne and his team are working hard on updating the lodge and accommodations and I am sure with time they will just keep improving.
The transfers for this year was a pain as right just before the start of the season the flights that had been planned the flight operator pulled out.
Yes the staff a re great and everyone says good things about them and I am sure I will pass on your kind comments.
Just wanted to thank you again for your continued support and custom as it is always very much appreciated.
I look forward in dealing with you again soon
Tight Lines Peter
A one off trip for me, Alaska is a long journey and with 4 flights to just arrive at the destination is very tiring.
Whilst ATA lodge is good and we enjoyed it, it still has many faults.
Russell, thanks for taking the time to both talk to me and return the customer feedback forms.
I will make sure that all the details and comments are passed on directly to the lodge.
In all I am glad that you enjoyed the trip and yes it would be so much better if Alaska was closer to the UK or there was a more direct route to the lodges.
I look forward in dealing with you all again,
Tight lines Peter
Wayne & family were faultless but the logistics would stop me travelling again. We have friend who fished a lodge lower down the river from us 2 weeks later and they had a great time catching lots of Silvers. Obviously the Silver run was late compared with others
Robert
As normal thanks for all your feedback and custom as it is all very much appreciated. Shame the fish run was late and yes the travel / transfer to the lodge are not ideal. Glad you all caught a few fish even though they did not turn out to be all bright chrome Silvers.
Again thanks for your continued support and I look forward in organising the next trip with you.
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