Alaska Trophy Adventure Lodge, Alaska

Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge (ATA) is situated on the remote banks of the wild and scenic Alagnak River and is the perfect wilderness fishing retreat. Boasting a world-famous run of all five species of pacific salmon, the Alagnak is also home to a host of resident fish, such as leopard rainbow trout, Arctic char and grayling.

Wild and remote, target all five Pacific salmon species

The Alagnak boasts a world-famous run of all five species of Pacific salmon with the salmon season starting at the end of June, peaking through July and August. With much more to offer, the Alagnak is also home to a host of resident fish, such as leopard and rainbow trout, Arctic char and grayling. This prestigious river is located within the Katmai National Park, with its headwaters in the surrounding mountains and drains into Bristol Bay.  Also known as “The Branch River,”  the Alagnak’s seemingly endless braids can turn 10 miles of river into 30 miles of fishable water. With such exclusive river access, you are sure not to be bothered by any crowds and if you really want to get away from it all, why not opt for a fly out or raft trip; an unparalleled opportunity to fish and truly experience the remoteness of the location.

Spectacular views of the Alagnak River

The Lodge itself is on 160 acres of prime river frontage in an iconic section of the Alagnak River known as the upper braids. The only access to the lodge is via bush plane, landing on a private airstrip located on the property. Welcoming wooden cabins are equipped with running water, heating and power.  All of which will guarantee you a comfortable stay. With an abundance of wildlife and stunning scenery, this trip is sure to live up to the image of Alaska that you have always dreamed of. All of the guest cabins, including the main lodge have spectacular views of the Alagnak river.

The dining lodge is the centre piece of the camp. It is where you will take all your meals, share stories and socialize after a day on the river. With lounge sofas, a fireplace and a stunning view of the river and surrounding mountains, this building really is hub of the camp. Wooden walkways connect the eight private guest cabins to each other and lead down to the naturally sheltered dock. Waiting there for you, are a fleet of jet boats ready to access all the best fishing spots within minutes of the lodge. The Swiss Chalet on the hill, is perfect for larger parties. It accommodates up to eight guests in style, not to mention taking in the “Million Dollar View” where you can survey the rest of the property, river and mountains beyond.

Miles of braided river

The ATA Lodge is located on the Alagnak River, in an iconic section of its waters known as the upper braids, and is just downstream (six miles) from the point the rivers Kukaklek and Nonvianuk join to form the Alagnak. Because of the prime location and fleet of jet boats you are able to access all of this watershed and draw upon its many resources.

Alagnak River (A-lag-nak) is located within Katmai National Park, with its headwaters in the surrounding mountains and draining into Bristol Bay. Wading and fishing are made easy on the many small natural islands and gravel bars, which the river flow creates. 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+lb, when targeting the kings. With hatches occurring throughout the season, it is not rare to see a resident trout or grayling rise. The Alagnak was designated a Wild & Scenic River in 1980 and is protected under the 1968 National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Kukaklek River (Ku-ka-click) 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. What is less known is that a section of this rapids creates a small waterfall with an easily accessible, natural overlook which is perfect for viewing feeding bears in the height of the salmon run. When fishing this unique river, most time is spent in the lower five or the upper six miles which are ideal for targeting rainbow trout. The upper section near the mouth of the lake is particularly good trout fishing, in particular as the salmon start to spawn.

Nonvianuk River (Non-vi-on-uk) runs 11 miles from its mouth at Nonvianuk Lake to where it meets 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 or spend a day wildlife viewing. The upper four miles of this river are the most productive and much like the Kukaklek it holds an abundance of trout. The outlet of Nonvianuk Lake is a very popular fly-out location for many lodges in Bristol Bay, but from here it is just a scenic boat ride away. Early in the season a huge number of salmon smolt migrate out of the lake into the river system and during that time become the primary target of ravenous lake trout and rainbows.