A Short Introduction To A Float Fishing Outing Around Alaska
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the September 22, 2008
Alaska float fishing, also known as angling, is some of the best in the world. The salmon are massive, the scenery spectacular and the fishing adventure is unbeatable. For an overview of angling, good angling sites in Alaska and where to look for more information, keep reading.
Float Fishing Explained
Float fishing is basically a form of angling that uses floats, and angling is any form of fishing using a rod, line and hook. The float, essentially, is used to not only suspend the bait, but also indicate when a fish is biting. The float will move and bounce, letting the fisherman know to draw his line.
Alaska Fishing Licenses
If you’re planning an Alaska float fishing vacation, you’ll need a license. The license fees for non-residents are $20 for a day, $35 for three days, $55 for a week and $80 for two weeks.
If you want to fish king salmon, you’ll need to purchase an additional stamp which costs $10 for the first day, $20 for three days, $30 for seven days and $50 for fourteen days.
Hot Fishing Spots in Alaska
The thing about Alaska fishing is that it’s more about your timing than any of your fishing locations. This is why having a guide can be so critical for a successful fishing trip there. Nonetheless, the best locations are Bristol Bay, the Copper River Delta, the Kenai River and Kodiak Island.
Kodiak Island is known for its abundance of salmon and great roadside and float fishing. The Kenai River has massive king salmon, but they’re fast and strong, making them hard to catch for a beginner fisher and not the best for float fishing.
The Copper River Delta has an abundant fish supply and is fairly isolated, however the waters run quickly. Finally, Bristol Bay is the world’s biggest salmon fishery and is home to a number of high-quality lodges and fishing destinations that also cater to those hunting rainbow trout and other fish.
Where to Find More Information
If you’re seeking information on Alaska float fishing, good fishing tour companies or recommended lodges for your fishing vacations, your best resource is the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Fish Division (sf.adfg.state.ak.us).
Their website has information on fishing in Alaska, how to buy a fishing license, location-specific info and resources on recommended local companies. Check out the free resources to gather the key information you need to nail down a great vacation.