Igiugig Lodge

Located on the banks of Lake Iliamna near the headwaters of the famed Kvichak River, Igiugig Lodge hosts small groups of six anglers per week. The lodge’s central location within the Bristol Bay region makes it an ideal location for sampling the diverse angling opportunities of the Alaskan bush. Each week, anglers will enjoy 2 fully guided flyouts to areas where the fishing is best. The rest of the week will be spent fishing the Kvichak River’s smaller braids, accessed via jet boat. The species targeted in the Lake Iliamna region include trophy Rainbow Trout, all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, Char, Grayling, and Northern Pike. This small Alaskan lodge prides itself on professional personalized service, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding fishing. 

Who It’s For

•  Solo anglers & couples
•  Fishing-oriented families & groups

When To Go

Igiugig Lodge operates from mid-June through September. Throughout the season, anglers have access to wild Rainbow Trout, Char, Grayling, and various species of Pacific Salmon in the vast fishery surrounding Lake Iliamna. The early season, from mid-June through mid-July, offers opportunities for Trout, King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Pink Salmon, Char, and Pike. Mid-season, from mid-July through August brings runs of Chum Salmon and the start of the Silver Salmon run. September brings excellent fishing for Trout, Silver Salmon, Char, and Pike. The entire season at Igiugig Lodge is special and can offer incredible fishing. When you should come depends on which species you want to target!

Rainbow Trout

The Bristol Bay region of Alaska is well known for its hard-fighting, wild Rainbow Trout which can grow to over 30 inches. At Igiugig Lodge, you’ll experience these amazing creatures firsthand in the lakes and rivers surrounding the lodge. 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

The Bristol Bay region boasts one of the world's largest Sockeye Salmon (aka Red Salmon) runs, from mid-June through early August. Not only are these brightly red-colored Salmon extremely fun to catch on a fly rod, but their smolt, fry, and eggs create an extremely abundant forage for Rainbows, Char, and Grayling. 

King Salmon

Generally available from mid-June into early July, King Salmon (aka Chinook Salmon) is the largest and strongest of the 5 Pacific salmon species. From Igiugig, flyouts to nearby river systems provide access to some of Alaska's largest King Salmon runs. 

Silver Salmon

August and September bring runs of Silver Salmon (aka Coho Salmon) into various rivers of the Bristol Bay region. Known for being the most “catchable” of the 5 Pacific salmon species, Silvers reward anglers with acrobatic leaps and brute strength.

Chum Salmon

Available between mid-July and mid-August, Chum Salmon (aka Dog Salmon) is one of the more picturesque salmon species. As they begin spawning, they turn from chrome silver to a striped green, purple, and red coloration. Chums are also highly regarded for their aggressive strikes and hard-fighting nature.

Pink Salmon

From mid-June through mid-August, Pink Salmon (aka Humpy Salmon) migrate up various rivers in the Lake Iliamna region. Pinks are characterized by a giant “humpback” appearance and their long, kype jaws. Their prehistoric looks and willingness to take flies make them a fun angling target for beginners and advanced anglers alike.

Arctic Grayling

Arctic Grayling are a unique species resident to the rivers and streams surrounding Igiugig. Available all season, these gorgeous salmonids are often willing to eat dry flies, adding excellent variety to a day of targeting many species.

Arctic Char

Known for their vibrant spawning coloration, Dolly Varden and Arctic Char are frequently caught in the rivers and lakes surrounding Lake Iliamna. These cousins of the Brook Trout are generally available all season and are happy to eat a variety of well-presented flies from eggs to swung streamers.

Northern Pike

Northern Pike makes for an exciting fly rod target in the lakes, sloughs, and back bays surrounding Intricate Igiugig Lodge. With their razor-sharp teeth, these ambush predators can grow to over 40 inches due to the abundance of forage species available. Few angling experiences compare to watching a giant Pike turn and attack a popper just yards away from the boat!

Equipment

Igiugig Lodge can provide all the rods and reels needed for a week of fishing. For anglers choosing to bring their equipment, we recommend bringing 3 rods with matching reels: a 9’ 6wt for dries and nymphing, a 9’ 7wt for nymphing and streamers, and a 9’ 8wt for Salmon. Your guide will ensure your equipment is appropriately rigged for each day’s fishing conditions. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

Day 1: From Home to Anchorage, Alaska

A week-long trip at Igiugig Lodge runs from Saturday to Saturday. Getting to the lodge generally begins with a Friday 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 Igiugig Lodge

On Saturday Morning, you will board a charter flight to Igiugig, Alaska. From Igiugig, an Igiugig Lodge representative will transfer you to the Lodge. Once you’ve arrived at the lodge, you will receive a briefing from the lodge manager, settle into your room, 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 conditions. Each week includes two fly-out days, but if the weather is unsafe to fly, the productive Kvichak River is always accessible by boat. 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 cocktails and stories with friends, tie flies, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 9: From Igiugig Lodge to Anchorage

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Saturday morning before beginning your transfers back to Anchorage. From the airport in 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 Sunday morning, you’ll take a taxi to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC), where you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

Accommodations

Igiugig Lodge features comfortable double-occupancy guest cabins, each with 2 twin beds, or a king-sized bed for couples. Each room features a bathroom with hot showers, heat, 24/7 electricity, and clothing/gear storage.

The cozy main lodge building features a comfortably furnished living room for socializing after each fishing day. The adjacent dining room hosts meals for your group and is the perfect place to tell stories of the day’s fishing or to make plans with your guides for the following day. The lodge also features a well-stocked fly-tying bench, plenty of books to read, and a flat-screen TV with DVDs for entertainment.

Food

Meals at Igiugig Lodge are hearty and delicious, providing anglers with the nourishment they need to fish hard all day. Breakfast is served fresh in the dining room, and features classic options such as eggs, biscuits, bacon, and strong coffee or tea. Substantial lunches are packed daily by your guide, allowing you to maximize your time on the water. Dinners include meats, fish, sides, and fresh salads, punctuated by delectable desserts.

Connectivity

WiFi is available for guest use. While this is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by inclement weather. Cell service is not available at Igiugig Lodge.

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. 

Double Occupancy (Per Person)

7 Nights / 6 Days (2 Flyouts) = $9,350

What's Included:

•  Round-trip transfers between Igiugig and the lodge
•  Daily guide service
•  2 guided fly-out days (weather permitting)
•  Lodging at Igiugig Lodge
•  All meals at Igiugig Lodge
•  Rod, reel, and wader rentals
•  Flies and terminal tackle
   

What's Not Included:

•  Airfare to/from Anchorage (ANC)
•  Lodging and meals in Anchorage
•  Airfare between Anchorage and Igiugig
•  Gratuities for lodge staff
•  Gratuities for guides
•  Alcoholic beverages
•  Alaskan taxes
•  Alaska Fishing License

What skill level is required for this trip?

The guides at Igiugig Lodge are patient and knowledgeable professionals, capable of guiding anglers of any ability. From first-timers to seasoned veterans, all anglers can find success and enjoyment in the diverse and productive fisheries of the Lake Iliamna area.

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

Practicing your casting is crucial, as accuracy is important when fishing large Rainbow Trout and Pacific Salmon. 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 Igiugig Lodge Family Friendly?

Igiugig Lodge is a great option for families, couples, groups, and solo anglers. Due to the diverse nature of the fishery, there is something for every angler to enjoy at Igiugig Lodge.

How many other anglers will be there?

Guest capacity at Igiugig Lodge is limited to 6 anglers per week, resulting in a personalized lodging and fishing experience. The vast fishery surrounding the lodge ensures uncrowded fishing beats and unpressured fish.

How does money work in Alaska?

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?

Beyond the exceptional fly fishing, encountering the abundant wildlife is a highlight of any Alaskan adventure. At Igiugig Lodge, you could see Eagles, Moose, Caribou, 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. Your guides will prepare you for any bear encounters to ensure a safe and memorable fishing 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 Lake Iliamna region is known for variable summer weather. Temperatures here can range 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 Igiugig 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.