Planning your Alaska fishing trip? We’ve got answers. Whether you’re staying in our Kenai River lodging or booking a guided fishing trip with ChasingTales Alaska, this FAQ covers everything from trip logistics to fishing gear. Browse by topic below, or reach out anytime.
Yes, anglers 16+ need a valid Alaska sport fishing license.
Yes — all waders, wading boots, rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Yes, when Alaska regulations allow.
Yes, we fillet your catch and can recommend processors for vacuum sealing and shipping.
Absolutely — many of our guests are first-time anglers.
We guide on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, based near Soldotna.
What to pack and what to know before you arrive
ChasingTales provides all the fishing equipment you’ll need, including waders, wading boots and premium rods, reels, and tackle. We recommend bringing:
Rain gear means rain pants, waterproof footwear and jacket – preferably rainboots or rubber boots. The weather in Alaska is very unpredictable and can change very quickly; please be prepared for it all in one day. Our boats have a fair amount of dry storage for your belongings but do try and pack conservatively.
Yes. All anglers age 16 and older are required to have a valid Alaska sport fishing license. Purchase yours online before the trip through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website (Buy Here.) Please do not purchase the King Salmon Stamp – this can be added if needed the day prior to the charter.
What you can catch, and how to know if you’re ready
Depending on the season, our guided trips target King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Silver Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Dolly Varden. Our guides will recommend the best trip based on current fishing conditions and your goals.
Fishing opportunities vary throughout the season. King Salmon are typically targeted in early summer, Sockeye peak in June and July, Silver Salmon arrive later in the summer, and Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden provide excellent fishing into the fall. Contact us to find the best trip for your travel dates, or read more on our blog here.
Fishing opportunities vary throughout the season. King Salmon are typically targeted in early summer, Sockeye peak in June and July, Silver Salmon arrive later in the summer, and Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden provide excellent fishing into the fall. Contact us to find the best trip for your travel dates, or read more on our blog here.
Not at all. Whether it’s your first time holding a fishing rod or you’re an experienced angler, our guides tailor each trip to your skill level and will coach you every step of the way.
Absolutely. Many of our guests have never fished before. Our guides provide instruction, equipment, and plenty of encouragement to help you have a successful day on the water.
What’s provided, and what to bring if you have your own gear
No. We provide waders, wading boots, rods, reels, tackle, and all necessary fishing equipment. If you’d prefer to fish with your own rod or reel, you’re welcome to bring it – just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. If you have waders, you are more than welcome to bring those as well.
Our custom-built Willie power boats and drift boats can seat up to 5 anglers. Depending on what we are fishing for –Â and how – determines how many clients will be on board. The vast majority of our charters consist of 3-4 anglers.
Yes. Private charters allow you the freedom to fish for what you want or change plans midday. It also gives you the space many fly fishermen need to fully enjoy their day on the water, and it ensures you are only with your group of friends and family.
Keeping, cleaning, and shipping what you reel in
Yes, when regulations allow. Alaska Department of Fish & Game regulations vary by species, river section, and time of year. Your guide will explain the current regulations and help ensure you’re fishing within all legal limits.
All salmon species have different and specific sport fishing regulations on different river systems and different sections of water which vary throughout the season, as well as day of the week. Alaska Department of Fish & Game lists the retention limits on their website. The limits of fish retention will also vary based on real-time special orders from ADF&G and can change throughout the season. ChasingTales is very knowledgeable in all regulations, so please don’t hesitate to ask any questions!
Yes. We will assist you by filleting your catch at the end of each trip. From there you have the choice of eating your catch that evening for dinner or having it processed and frozen for a later time. The Kenai Peninsula has many options when it comes to this and we will happily point you in the direction of the most convenient processor.
Absolutely. Most guests have their fish professionally vacuum sealed and frozen before traveling home. Local fish processors can package your catch in airline-approved boxes for easy transport.
Weather, timing, lodging, and everything else to plan around
Fishing trips operate rain or shine, and some of the best fishing happens in less-than-perfect weather. We recommend bringing quality rain gear and dressing in layers. Safety is always our top priority, and trips may only be adjusted if weather conditions become unsafe.
Beer and wine are welcome. We generally do not recommend bringing hard liquor.
Yes. We welcome anglers of all ages and enjoy introducing families to Alaska fishing. Please contact us with your group’s ages so we can recommend the best trip.
In many cases, yes. If you have family members or friends who would simply like to enjoy the scenery and boat ride, let us know and we’ll discuss the best options.
Trip start times vary depending on the target species, river conditions, tides, and time of year. We’ll provide your exact meeting time before your trip.
Our trips are based on Alaska’s beautiful Kenai Peninsula, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours south of Anchorage by car, depending on where you were staying and fishing.
Depending on the time of year and the Fish species we are targeting, fishing trips may start in the town of Sterling, Soldotna or Kasilof. Your Guide will be in touch with you the night before your trip to confirm where to meet them. See HERE for most commonly used meeting points.
ChasingTales Alaska operates a rental property near the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers in Sterling, Alaska. For more information, visit our Accommodations page. Otherwise, there are many great vacation rentals on the peninsula- you will want to focus your search in Sterling, Soldotna and Kenai.
Prime fishing dates – especially during peak salmon runs – often fill months in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred dates.
While never required, gratuities are always appreciated. Like many outdoor recreation industries, tipping is a common way to recognize outstanding service.