Aleutian Rivers Angling - Steelhead Creek Camp

Located 40 miles west of Nelson Lagoon, Steelhead Creek Camp overlooks Steelhead Creek just upstream of the delta into the Bering Sea. Anglers fishing Steelhead Creek will have walk/wade and 4X4 access for Steelhead, Silver Salmon, Dolly Varden, and resident Rainbow Trout. The remoteness of this fishery means very little angling pressure and uncrowded beats. The comfortable tent camp provides warm, clean lodging for small groups of only 2 anglers per week. To experience the Alaska Peninsula’s incredible Steelhead and anadromous Salmon fishing, consider spending a week with a seasoned guide at the Steelhead Creek Camp.

Who It’s For

•  Spey and single-hand Steelhead/Salmon anglers
•  Adventurous anglers
•  Fishing-oriented couples

When To Go

The Steelhead Creek Camp operates from late September through mid-October. Throughout the short 3-week season, anglers have access to wild Steelhead, Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Silver Salmon. Since this small camp only accommodates 2 anglers per week, the best time to go is when you can get there!

Rainbow Trout

The Alaska Peninsula offers hard-fighting, wild Rainbow Trout which can grow to over 25 inches. At Steelhead Creek Camp, you’ll experience these amazing creatures firsthand in Steelhead Creek. Techniques for targeting Rainbows can depend on the conditions and the time of the season. Common tactics include swinging or stripping streamers, and nymphing.

Silver Salmon

The autumn season brings runs of Silver Salmon (aka Coho Salmon) into the Nelson Lagoon region. Known for being the most “catchable” of the 5 Pacific salmon species, Silvers reward anglers with acrobatic leaps and brute strength.

Dolly Varden

Known for their vibrant spawning coloration, Dolly Varden are frequently caught in Steelhead Creek. These cousins of the Brook Trout are generally available all autumn and are happy to eat a variety of well-presented flies from eggs to swung streamers.

Steelhead

Often referred to as the “fish of 10,000 casts”, Steelhead are among the most prized salmonid species for anglers worldwide. These anadromous beasts can grow to well over 30 inches and will test even the most seasoned angler’s patience and wit. At Steelhead Creek Camp, anglers will target Steelhead on the legendary pools of Steelhead Creek.

Equipment

A successful week of fishing at Steelhead Creek Camp requires specific rods with matching reels. Depending on your week and target species, we recommend the following rods: an 11’-13’ 7wt spey/switch rod for Steelhead, a 9’ 8wt for Silver Salmon, and a 9’ 6wt for Trout and Dolly Varden. 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 Steelhead Creek Camp typically runs from Wednesday to Wednesday. Getting to the camp generally begins with a Tuesday 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 Steelhead Creek Camp

On Wednesday Morning, you will take a taxi from your hotel to the Merrill Field Airport (MRI), where you’ll board a charter flight to Nelson Lagoon, Alaska. From Nelson Lagoon, your Aleutian Rivers Angling guide will transport you via a 4X4 vehicle for approximately 90 minutes to the camp. Once you’ve arrived at camp, you can settle into your tent, prepare your equipment, and enjoy a hearty meal with your guide.

Days 3 - 8: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Fishing locations on Steelhead Creek or another nearby creek depend on the target species and 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 cocktails and stories with friends, tie flies, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 9: From Steelhead Creek Camp to Anchorage

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Wednesday morning before beginning your transfer back to Nelson Lagoon, where you’ll board your 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 Thursday morning, you’ll take a taxi to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC), where you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

Accommodations

Steelhead Creek Camp features a double-occupancy guest tent with heat and electricity. The tent features padded cots, easy chairs, and a table for fly-tying.

The camp also features a shared shower house with on-demand hot water, a spacious dining/kitchen tent, and an outhouse. All tents are built upon wooden platforms and have interconnected wooden decking for safety and cleanliness. Although this is a no-frills camp experience, the entire camp is clean, warm, and comfortable.

Food

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

Connectivity

Satellite WiFi is available, weather permitting. Cell service is not available.

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.

All rates below are for Double Occupancy, with a 2:1 guest-to-guide ratio, priced per person. Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing. 

Steelhead Season

7 Nights / 6 Days = $7,025

What's Included:

•  Daily walk/wade and 4X4 guide service in the Steelhead Creek region
•  Lodging at Steelhead Creek Camp
•  All meals at Steelhead Creek Camp
   

What's Not Included:

•  Alaska Fishing License
•  Airfare to/from Anchorage (ANC)
•  Charter flight to/from Nelson Lagoon ($2,150)
•  Lodging and meals in Anchorage
•  Gratuities for guides
•  Alcoholic beverages
•  Fishing equipment

What skill level is required for this trip?

The guides at Steelhead Creek Camp are patient and knowledgeable professionals, capable of guiding anglers of any ability. That being said, Steelhead fishing can require lots of patience, so we generally recommend this trip for intermediate to advanced anglers.

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

Most importantly, you should practice casting, as accuracy and stamina will be critical regardless of the species you target. 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 Steelhead Creek Camp Family Friendly?

Steelhead Creek Camp is best suited for fishing-oriented couples who are OK with basic amenities and tent-style lodging. There are no other activities in this remote camp other than fishing and relaxing at camp.

How many other anglers will be there?

Guest capacity at Steelhead Creek Camp is limited to 2 guests per week, resulting in a very intimate and personalized atmosphere. The vast fishery surrounding the camp ensures uncrowded fishing beats and unpressured fish.

How does money work in Alaska?

Although credit cards are accepted in Anchorage, we advise carrying enough cash in USD to cover all expenses at the camp, 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 Steelhead Creek Camp, 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. 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 Nelson Lagoon 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 rain jacket to be prepared for the varying weather conditions at Steelhead Creek Camp.

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.