Fly Fishing Gear In Alaska

CLOTHING FOR FLY FISHING IN ALASKA

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

Rainbow River Lodge recommends starting off with polypropylene next to your skin. This is often a pair of thermal underwear. Try and 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 from wind and rain. Waxed cotton jackets such as Filson are also a fine choice.Anglers should also bring a few pair of heavy wool socks. We recommend that you try on your socks with your waders in your wading boots before coming to the lodge to insure that you have plenty of room to move your toes. Being unable to move your toes and 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 “breath” 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 take-up leaving you more room in your duffel bag.

Wadding 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

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED FISHING EQUIPMENT AND GEAR

  • Polarized Sunglasses (Amber or Copper lenses are best)
  • Day Pack/Backpack

  • Gallon Ziploc Bags (keeps items organized and dry in Day Pack)

  • Camera-Leaders (7.5 Feet 0x-4x)

  • Tippet (0x-4x)

  • Split Shot (b – bb)

  • Insect Repellant

  • Sun Screen

  • Hemostats / Pliers

  • Nippers-Strike Indicators

  • Plastic Garbage Bags (nice for packing wet items when returning home)

  • Shorts for Sauna at Lodge

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 Rainbow River Lodge.

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