Overview of Some of the Optimal Fly Fishing Excursions in Alaska

The Ultima Thule Lodge in Wrangell-St. Elias (ultimathulelodge.com)

Featured in the National Geographic's Ultimate Alaska issue, Ultima Thule Lodge is renowned for its luxury service, knowledgeable staff and experienced bush pilots. The lodge is fly-in only and located in the expansive Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

The lodge can arrange almost any type of day trip, but a lot of their focus is on fly fishing in Moose Valley. However, if your interest is fishing, make sure you book in advance to get there during the peak salmon migration period.

By offering alternative day trips and other activities, Ultima Thule Lodge has set itself apart from the competition. Whether it's a corporate retreat or family vacation, guests can choose between hiking remote glaciers, rafting the rapids or spending the day fishing.

However, if you and your group want a more rustic or self-catered experience, you may want to look elsewhere. Ultima Thule is known for luxury, not wilderness expeditions.

Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge in Kachemak Bay (sadiecove.com)

Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge is situated right in the middle of the beautiful Kachemak Bay, an area known for its fishing. The eco-lodge uses wind, hydro and solar power, and prides itself on being one of the greenest hotels in the country. Its amazing systems and accommodations have been featured in National Geographic, Forbes' Traveler, the Discovery Channel, ESPN, the Fishing Network and more.

They arrange everything from photo safaris to fully customized Alaska fly fishing trips, while pampering guests with an in-house chef, on-site sauna and incredible scenery. Despite the amenities and commitment to sustainability, the rates at Sadie Cove are fairly reasonable. They start at about $400 per night per adult for an all-inclusive stay - meaning three meals a day, use of lodge facilities, a private cabin, and fishing equipment. However, private fishing charters or fly-ins do cost extra.

Drifter's Lodge on the Kenai River (907-595-5555)

If you're looking for a more rustic experience that centers it attention almost exclusively on fly fishing, Drifter's Lodge is a great choice. The lodge offers a more down-to-earth Alaskan experience and has been featured in National Geographic, the Lonely Planet and Time magazine. For fly fishing, their draw is on the fall season when the trout are at their peak.

The lodge employs expert, local guides who know the best spots on the Kenai River and the perfect flies and casting techniques. Their catches and trips include Alaska salmon, Dolly Varden trout and, of course, rainbow trout. With on-site lessons and guided expeditions, some of the best Alaska fly fishing trips can be found right here.

Alaska is a geographically large state, and there are many great fishing lodges nestled into this beautiful region of the world. However, you won't go wrong in selecting any of the three described above. Each has a staff of skilled personnel whose job it is to help make your fishing experience one of the most memorable in your life.