Located on the banks of Intricate Bay within Lake Iliamna, the Intricate Bay Outpost is the sister lodge of Intricate Bay Lodge. This smaller lodge caters to private groups of up to six anglers per week. If you have always dreamed of a private lodge experience with your closest friends or family in the heart of the Alaskan bush, this is the lodge for you. Daily flyouts span a vast territory of fisheries, offering limitless angling possibilities. You can target trophy Rainbow Trout and Sockeye Salmon one day, and then aggressive Pike and colorful Arctic Char the next. Variety, flexibility, superior service, and comfort are the hallmarks of Intricate Bay Outpost, attracting anglers back year after year.
Who It’s For
When To Go
Intricate Bay Outpost 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 King Salmon, Sockeyes, Pinks, Char, Lake Trout, 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 Silvers, Char, Lake Trout, and Pike. The entire season at Intricate Bay 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 Intricate Bay Outpost, 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 Intricate Bay, 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.
Dolly Varden & Arctic Char
Known for their vibrant spawning coloration, Dolly Varden and Arctic Char are frequently caught in the rivers and lakes surrounding Intricate Bay Outpost. 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.
Lake Trout
Lake Trout, also known as Mackinaw, resides in the many lakes of the Lake Iliamna region. The early season offers anglers the unique opportunity to target Lakers on the fly, as they ravenously hunt for smolt in shallower waters. In September, Lakers again become available as they return to shallow water to prepare for their autumn spawning cycle.
Northern Pike
Northern Pike makes for an exciting fly rod target in the lakes, sloughs, and back bays surrounding Intricate Bay Outpost. 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!
Arctic Grayling
Arctic Grayling are a unique species resident to the rivers and streams surrounding Intricate Bay. Available all season, these gorgeous salmonids are often willing to eat dry flies, adding excellent variety to a day of targeting many species.
Equipment
Intricate Bay Outpost 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 and Pike. 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 Intricate Bay Outpost typically runs from Sunday to Saturday. 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 Intricate Bay Lodge Outpost
On Sunday Morning, you will board a one-hour charter flight to Iliamna, Alaska. From Illiamna, an Intricate Bay Outpost representative will transfer you by float plane 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. Daily adventures generally include fly-outs, but if the weather is unsafe to fly, there are excellent options accessible by jet 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, relax on the deck, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 9: From Intricate Bay Outpost 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
Intricate Bay Outpost features spacious single and double-occupancy guest rooms, replete with hot showers, heat, electricity, and clothing/gear storage.
The sizable lodge building features a comfortably furnished great room with a cozy central fireplace. The cozy 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 deck overlooking Intricate Bay, and a wood-burning wet sauna.
Food
Meals at Intricate Bay Outpost are hearty and delicious, providing anglers with the nourishment they need to fish hard all day. Breakfast is made 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 Intricate Bay Outpost.
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)
6 Nights / 6 Days (5 Flyouts) = $9,000
What's Included:
What's Not Included:
What skill level is required for this trip?
The guides at Intricate Bay Outpost 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 Intricate Bay Outpost Family Friendly?
Intricate Bay Outpost 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 Intricate Bay Outpost.
How many other anglers will be there?
Guest capacity at Intricate Bay Outpost is limited to private groups of 6 or smaller, resulting in a unique and intimate private experience for you and your family/friends. 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 Intricate Bay, 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 Intricate Bay Outpost.
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.