Brooks Lodge

Brooks Lodge in Katmai National Park is one of the best lodges in Alaska for families, non-anglers, and DIY anglers. Situated on the banks of Naknek Lake, Brooks Lodge offers easy access to the Brooks River, one of the best bear-viewing locations in the world. Groups with diverse interests will have plenty of options here, with guided tours for bear viewing, wildlife photography, sightseeing tours, and kayaking. Anglers can choose to hire guides for day trips, or wade fish the Brooks River on their own, which runs 1.5 miles from Lake Brooks into Naknek Lake. The historic lodge features comfortable guest cabins and an informal dining hall serving hearty buffet-style meals. From families and groups to dedicated DIY anglers, Brooks Lodge has something to please everyone.

Who It’s For

• Trout anglers
• Families
• Couples & groups

When To Go

Brooks Lodge operates from June through September. The early season, in June, offers excellent opportunities for large Rainbow Trout and Grayling in the Brooks River. Mid-season, from July through August, brings the Sockeye Salmon run to the region, and with the salmon come the bears. This is the best time of the year for bear viewing at Brooks Lodge, as these impressive giants feed on the salmon during their upstream migration. During the salmon run, anglers can choose to target hard-fighting Sockeyes or drift egg patterns for beefy Rainbows. September brings cooler temperatures and excellent opportunities for Rainbows, Char, and Grayling. Any time of the season can offer incredible experiences at Brooks Lodge. The best time of the season to travel here depends on the goals of your group!

Rainbow Trout

The Naknek watershed in Alaska is well known for its hard-fighting, wild Rainbow Trout which can grow to over 25 inches. At Brooks Lodge, you’ll experience these amazing creatures firsthand in the Brooks River, a short hike from your cabin. Techniques for targeting Rainbows can depend on the conditions and the time of the season. Common tactics include drifting dry flies, skating mice, swinging or stripping streamers, and nymphing.

Sockeye Salmon

In addition to big Rainbows, The Naknek region boasts a rich Sockeye Salmon fishery. Not only are these brightly red-colored Salmon fun to catch on a fly rod, but their eggs create an extremely abundant forage for Rainbow Trout. Sockeyes make a great fly rod target for novice anglers, as they are easy to see and will put up a strong fight.

Arctic Grayling

Grayling are one of the more unique fish found in the Brooks River, with their oversized dorsal fin and turquoise-gray coloration. Although not as densely populated as Rainbow Trout, Grayling makes an exciting addition to the available species in the Brooks River and the Naknek drainage.

Equipment

Fishing at Brooks Lodge requires only a couple of rods with matching reels. We recommend bringing 2 rods: a 9’ 6wt for dries and nymphing, and a 9’ 7wt for nymphing and streamers. Your guide will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

Day 1: From Home to Anchorage, Alaska

A week-long trip at Brooks Lodge typically runs from Sunday to Sunday. Getting to the lodge generally begins with a Saturday flight to the Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Once you’ve arrived in Anchorage, you will take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel, and spend one night there.

Day 2: From Anchorage to Brooks Lodge

On Sunday Morning, you will take a taxi from your hotel to the Bristol Adventures headquarters, where you’ll board a one-hour flight to King Salmon, Alaska. Upon arrival, you’ll be shuttled to a float plane for a scenic, 20-minute flight to Brooks Lodge. Once you’ve arrived at the lodge, you can relax, fish the home water, and enjoy a delicious meal.

Days 3 - 8: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Fishing locations depend on your goals and the daily conditions. Hearty cooler lunches are packed by your guide daily, allowing you to eat and relax on the water. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a hot shower and a hearty meal. After dinner, you can enjoy stories around the fireplace with friends, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 9: From Brooks Lodge to Anchorage

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Sunday morning before beginning your 20-minute transfer flight back to King Salmon. From there, you’ll board a one-hour flight back to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC). From Anchorage, you’ll typically take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel, where you’ll spend one night.

Day 10: From Anchorage to Home

On Monday morning, you’ll take a taxi to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC), where you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

Accommodations

Brooks Lodge features 16 guest rooms which can accommodate up to 4 guests each. Each room features 4 twin bunks, a private bathroom, heat, and 24/7 electricity. From the rooms, guests are within walking distance of the main lodge, the Brooks River, and Naknek Lake.

The main lodge structure overlooks the emerald waters of Naknek Lake and houses a warm gathering area with a circular fireplace, as well as the dining hall and bar. There is also an on-site gift shop with snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and some tackle available for purchase.

Food

The dining hall serves 3 buffet-style meals per day, available for purchase at the lodge. Each meal features hearty dishes and lighter options to suit any dietary needs. The lodge bar is open each evening for cash sales of cocktails, beer, and wine. 

Connectivity

Internet and Cell service are not available at the lodge. Unplug and enjoy the Alaskan experience free from distractions!

2025 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge. 

Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.

Nightly Room Rates

Single, Double, Triple, or Quad Occupancy = $1,150 per night
Each room has 4 twin bunks and can accommodate a maximum of 4 guests

Full Day Guide Service (Per Angler)

2 Anglers Per Guide = $325

Private Guide = $525

What's Included:

•  Air transfers between Anchorage and Brooks Lodge
•  Lodging at Brooks Lodge
•  Rod and wader rental for guided trips

What's Not Included:

•  Daily guide service in the Brooks River area
•  Alaska fishing license (approximately $70)
•  Airfare to/from Anchorage (ANC)
•  Lodging and meals in Anchorage
•  Gratuities for lodge staff
•  Gratuities for guides
•  All meals at Brooks Lodge
•  Alcoholic beverages
•  Lodging tax

What skill level is required for this trip?

Because Brooks Lodge offers excellent home-water access, this trip is best suited for anglers who enjoy doing some DIY fishing throughout the week, with a guided trip or two if desired. We recommend Brooks Lodge for beginner to advanced anglers.

How should I prepare for a week of fly fishing in Alaska?

Most importantly, you should practice your casting, as accuracy is important in trout fishing. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

Is Brooks Lodge Family Friendly?

While Brooks Lodge can cater to anglers, it is often considered a non-angling destination. Anglers may actually be in the minority here, as the Lodge and surrounding area offers so much to do other than fly fishing. In addition to on-site angling, there are numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing and sightseeing.

Should I bring cash?

Although credit cards are accepted throughout Alaska, we advise also carrying enough cash in USD to cover all expenses at the lodge, including gratuities.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company offering excellent, affordable policies for angling travel.

What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?

Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

What wildlife can we see in Alaska?

In addition to amazing fly fishing, seeing the plentiful wildlife is a highlight of any trip to the remote parts of Alaska. At Brooks Lodge, you could see Eagles, Moose, Brown Bears, Foxes, and much more. We recommend bringing a packable digital camera to take photos of wildlife during your trip.

Is it safe to fish near the bears?

The Brown Bears of Alaska are wild animals and certainly demand respect and space. That being said, the bears here are typically unbothered by human presence. The Parks Service staff will prepare you for any bear encounters to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

Electrical outlets are the same as anywhere in the U.S. - 110 Volt AC power.

What is the weather like?

The Bristol Bay region is known for mild, variable summer weather. Temperatures here can range anywhere from the low 40s to the upper 70s, Fahrenheit. With rain and wind possible at any time, we recommend dressing in layers and packing a reliable (Gore-Tex or similar) rain jacket to be prepared for the varying weather conditions at Brooks Lodge.

Is tipping customary in Alaska?

Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated, although it is at your discretion. Tipping 15-20 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.