Both fly and spin fishing equipment are appropriate for the rivers we float, either method can be very successful.

We now have available 10wt, 8wt, and 6wt fly rod and reel packages from TFO for rent. Please inquire when booking your trip if you need rental rods.

If you need spin fishing rods and reels, we have those available at no charge. Not including lures.

We welcome non-fly fishing anglers on our trips and offer basic fly fishing instruction to those interested in learning more.

Spin or Casting Rods and Reels ~ If spin or bait casting outfits are your forte' a medium weight outfit such as that used for steelhead is appropriate. An example of what could be an all-around outfit is a medium action rod that can handle 10 to 15-pound line and lure weights from 3/8 to 3/4 ounce with Blue Fox pixies, we are partial to the chrome and red or pink variety, Mepps spinners, and T Spoons being favorites and available from Cabela's, Bass Pro or similar shops.

For kings, however, you will need to upsize a bit using a heavy action rod that can handle at least 20-pound line. Some anglers prefer 30-pound line for these tackle busters.

An ultra-light combo that can handle small spinners is also a great idea to have along for grayling, dollies, and smaller char and rainbows.

We do strongly discourage any use of treble hooks and request that you replace these with barbless single hooks one or two sizes larger. This is not only for the well-being of the fish but is required on some of the waters we float. This practice also assures more solid hookups and more fish safely landed.

We recommend that you bring at least two rods and reels along with extra spools and lines, if something should happen you will have spares.

What if I do not have all the gear? ~ We can rent you gear rods and reels be it spinning or fly fishing. If you need us to, please let us know and reserve this well in advance as we are limited in the quantity and number of rods and reels we have available for this purpose. We do usually have a limited number of spares on every trip should you have an issue with your equipment.

Fly Fishing Rods ~ For King Salmon, a 9 to 12 wt rod can be used, however, the rod you choose should have plenty of backbone to aid in the landing of these 20 to 60-pound fish. The preferred rod among our guests is a 9 to 9 ½ foot 10 wt rod that is capable of casting heavy wind-resistant flies.

Sink tip lines such as a Tenny T-400, SA wet tip V or fast sinking shooting heads are excellent for getting your flies down fast to the bottom of the rivers where most king catching is done. You should also include an appropriate floating line as well for shallow water situations.

For Chums, Coho, sockeye salmon, and big rainbows a 7 to 9 wt rod 9½ ft long with the most popular choice being a 9 foot 8 weight rod. Reels should hold at least 150 yards of 20-pound backing with floating and sinking tip lines to match the rod you choose.

For Pink salmon, arctic char, grayling, and rainbows the popular choice is a five-weight rod 8 to 9 foot with 100 yards of backing but a four or 6 weight will work well also.

Fly Reels ~ There are two schools of thought when it comes to fly reels for use in Alaska, with or without a drag. Which system you choose depends on how you perceive the fishing experience.

The type of reel you choose however is a personal one, we however strongly suggest that the reel you bring be of sturdy construction as it is going to get a workout. A spare spool is also advisable. A well-constructed, dependable reel with a smooth drag system is a must and if you have to bring just one reel it should hold at least 200 yards of 20 or 30-pound backing with an exposed rim so you can palm the spool as that fish of a lifetime leads you down the river.