Lures for Fishing Alaska

Lures for Fishing Alaska
In general brightly colored spoons and spinners sizes 0-3 (7/64-1/4 oz.) are used for fishing trout and other non-salmon species. Lure sizes 4-6 (3/8-7/8 oz.) are used for fishing salmon. Large 3-5 inch diving plugs are also commonly used for fishing King salmon. Bring plenty of strong swivels, snaps and split rings.

Spinners - the in-line spinner is the most versatile and productive lure for fishing all species throughout Alaska. If you brought nothing but a tackle box full of in-line spinners, you would be well equipped. Our favorite commercially produced spinner is the Blue Fox Vibrax. Other popular brands include Mepps, Luhr Jensen, Panther Martin and Berkley. Our favorite colors in solids and combinations are, sliver, gold, hot pink, green, chartreuse, orange, black. Sizes 0-3 (7/64-1/4 oz.) for trout and other non salmon species, size 4 (3/8 oz.) for salmon, sizes 4-6 (3/8-3/4 oz.) for king salmon.

Spoons - are also an excellent lure for fishing Alaska. We prefer heavy spoons when fishing swift deep water. Without a doubt the Blue Fox Pixee is Alaska's most popular spoon choice when it comes to fishing for salmon. This heavy oval spoon has excellent spinning action on the straight retrieve, a fast sink rate, and good flutter when jigged through deep holes. The plastic egg cluster inserts come in a variety of color options. Our favorites - green, pink, orange and chartreuse on silver. 1/4 oz. for trout, 1/2 and 7/8 oz. for salmon. Other brands of spoons will work also.

Plugs - diving plugs are a popular lure option for fishing king salmon. These may be cast and fished cross current from shore but are most effective when back bounced, trolled, or set to work in the current directly behind a boat. The Wiggle Wart, by Storm Lures, is a popular option. This is a deep diving plug which runs true, has a lot of rattle and shake and comes in a variety of flashy color combinations. Other popular plugs include the Kwikfish by Luhr-Jenson and the Tadpolly by Heddon.

Fishing Vests are the most convenient way to organize and carry all of your fishing supplies. I encourage all fishermen to come with a vest well equipped for a weeks worth of fishing. Be prepared to loose lots of lures and line. Remember there are no tackle shops once you depart Anchorage. In addition to lures, items in your vest or tackle box should include...

* On many rivers, lures with treble hooks must be altered in accordance with Alaska Department of Fish & Game regulations which prohibit the use of any lure equipped with other than a single hook. Treble hooks may be clipped or replaced with singles. Check regulations for the rivers you will be fishing.

Click here for our rod and reel recommendations.