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Fly Fishing Guide Anchorage, AK

If you are planning a fishing trip to the beautiful state of Alaska, we suggest hiring us at Jason’s Guide Service to show you the best spots for catching rainbow trout, sockeye salmon, and other fish species! When you reserve our guide services, you can depend on our Anchorage, AK fly fishing guide for a wonderful experience in learning and fun. We can show you the best spots for catching that next trophy fish. The Kenai River fishing seasons provide opportunities for fishing where the wildlife comes alive. A typical day on the river begins with taking advantage of the best fishing times and locations. We are happy to guide you along the river. Contact us today to schedule your next trip!

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fly fishing guide Anchorage, AK

What To Know On Your Fly Fishing Trip

Fly fishing is a fun way to interact with the natural world. However, we do like to let people know that if you are new to this type of sport, there is likely to be a learning curve as you adjust to a newfound skill. The approach for fly fishing is different from traditional fishing. After you have covered the fundamentals, it will be time to wait for your first catch. Our Anchorage fly fishing guide can review the basics with you, but be prepared to have a few practice casts and get used to using the fly rod. Don’t worry if you are not an expert right away, as it takes everyone somewhere to start! Most fly fishing locations are enveloped in the breathtaking scenery of Alaskan landscape. Not only will you be learning a new skill with support from our fly fishing guide, but basking in the beauty surrounding you too. 

About Our Kenai River Guides

Say hello to our fly fishing river guides, Jason Lesmeister and Joe Pote! Jason moved to Alaska at 21 years old as a hunting guide and fisher. After 30 years, he is still doing what he loves and is one of the most sought-after guides on the Kenai Peninsula. He considers Cooper Landing, AK to both his home and playground. He believes in protecting the natural resources that are available to human-kind. He provides eco-friendly services and believes in leaving behind as small of a footprint as possible. Joe has had a lifelong love for fishing. He moved to Alaska in 2021 to work in a fly shop and guide in Cooper Landing, AK. Originally from Virginia, this is where he spent his teenage years honing his love for fly fishing. You can depend on both Jason and Joe to give you the fly fishing guide tour of a masterpiece!

Jason’s Guide Service

Jason’s Guide Service

If you are looking for a knowledgeable guide service that can give you the most fun for your fishing adventure, then look no further than Jason’s Guide Service. There are many options when fishing, and you may find yourself snagging some hooked salmon, rainbow trout, or another wild fish species. Our Anchorage fly fishing guide service headquarters is located at Cooper Landing, AK. But we fish throughout the entire Kenai River from Soldotna, Kenai, Skilak Lake, Kenai Lake, Sterling, and the Cooper Landing area. For more information about our guide services for hire, contact us right away! 

Types Of Fly Fishing Guides We Handle

When you’re looking for the ultimate fly fishing experience in Alaska, choosing the right guide makes all the difference. At Jason’s Guide Service, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, professionally guided fishing trips tailored to target a wide variety of species. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned fly fisher, our team has the local knowledge and passion to ensure your time on the water is both productive and unforgettable. With the Kenai River as our primary fishery, and with permits through both Alaska State Parks and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, we operate in some of the most scenic and well-managed waters in the state. As a top choice for anyone seeking an Anchorage, AK fly fishing guide, our team is prepared to take you straight to the action — whether that means stalking trout, casting to salmon, or braving frozen waters for an ice fishing adventure.

A fly fishing guide showing a person how to cast.
Dolly Varden Fly Fishing Guides

Here are the types of fly fishing guides we provide:

  • Dolly Varden Fly Fishing Guides
     Our guides are experts in targeting Dolly Varden, known for their vivid colors and aggressive strikes. Whether you’re fishing from the bank or floating down the Kenai, we’ll position you for a shot at these beautiful, hard-fighting fish.

  • Ice Fishing Guides
     For those visiting in the winter months, our experienced guides offer fully equipped ice fishing trips. We provide everything needed for a safe and enjoyable day on the ice, targeting species such as rainbow trout and landlocked salmon in frozen lakes near the Kenai River system. This can be quite a treat for those of you visiting from warmer climates.

  • Pink Salmon Fly Fishing Guides
     Our pink salmon guides are available during the peak of the biennial run. Though smaller than other salmon species, pinks offer nonstop action on light tackle — ideal for families or those wanting a fun and fast-paced day of fly fishing. Be sure to contact us ahead of time so we can direct you to the best time to visit to catch these fish.

  • Rainbow Trout Fly Fishing Guides
     Few fish can match the beauty and fight of a Kenai River rainbow trout. Our guides specialize in helping anglers connect with trophy-sized trout using a range of fly fishing techniques. This is a true bucket-list experience and a prime offering for those working with an Anchorage fly fishing guide.

  • Silver Salmon Fly Fishing Guides
     Known for their acrobatics and aggressive takes, silver salmon are a thrill on the fly. Our guides know the best river sections and patterns to target silvers during the heart of their seasonal run, ensuring you have every advantage on the water.

  • Sockeye Salmon Fly Fishing Guides
     Sockeye salmon offer a unique challenge due to their strength and speed. Our guides are highly skilled at helping anglers time their trip with the peak of the sockeye run, using specialized techniques to hook into these powerful fish in swift water.

Each of these guide types represents not only a different fishing experience, but also a different way to engage with the wild and beautiful waters of the Kenai River. From the quiet solitude of ice fishing to the full-throttle excitement of a sockeye run, our team ensures that every guest leaves with both incredible memories and the confidence of having fished alongside a professional. We are able to completely tailor our guided trips to your specific wants, so let us know what you are after and we will make it happen.

Whether you’re hoping to land your first rainbow trout or add silver salmon to your personal best list, the guides at Jason’s Guide Service are ready to lead the way. Book your next trip with an experienced Anchorage fly fishing guide and discover what makes Alaska’s waters so unforgettable.

Silver Salmon Fly Fishing Guides
Anchorage fly fishing guide holding a trout

5 Steps In An Anchorage Fly Fishing Process

Hiring an Anchorage, AK fly fishing guide is a smart move for both beginners and seasoned anglers looking to make the most of Alaska’s rivers and lakes. With the help of Jason’s Guide Service, you get more than just gear and transportation, you gain access to a wealth of local knowledge and a smoother, more rewarding experience on the water. Our team is here to make your fishing trip your most rewarding experience yet. Whether you’re targeting salmon, trout, or grayling, understanding the process ahead of time can help set expectations and prepare you for a great day on the river.

1. Booking Your Trip

The first step in the process is selecting your dates and making a reservation. The best fly fishing guides fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons like summer and early fall. Booking early guarantees your spot and gives your guide time to prepare the right plan based on seasonal conditions and fish availability. During booking, you’ll typically discuss your fishing goals, level of experience, and any special requests you may have. This allows the guide to tailor the trip to your needs whether you’re looking for a relaxed day or a challenging hunt for trophy fish.

2. Pre-Trip Communication And Gear Prep

Once your trip is confirmed, your guide will follow up with helpful information on what to bring, what to expect, and how to prepare. Most reputable Anchorage fly fishing guides provide rods, reels, tackle, and waders. You’ll need to bring weather-appropriate clothing, a fishing license, and your own food and drinks, unless otherwise arranged. Jason Lesmeister has 31 years of guide experience throughout Alaska, so you can count on precise, useful advice in the lead-up to your trip. This step ensures you’re ready and comfortable before the adventure begins. Do not hesitate to ask any questions, as we want you to feel prepared and comfortable for your trip.

3. Meeting At The Launch Site

On the day of your trip, you’ll meet your guide at a designated location which is often a boat launch or popular river access point. From there, you’ll review safety basics, get outfitted with gear, and go over the day’s fishing plan. Whether your outing takes place near Anchorage or further south on the Kenai River, your guide’s goal is to maximize both safety and fun. With 14 years spent guiding on the Kenai, Jason knows how to read river conditions and adjust accordingly for the best chance of success.

Pre-Trip Communication And Gear Prep

4. On-The-Water Instruction And Fishing

Once you’re out on the water, the guide will provide hands-on instruction. Even experienced anglers benefit from local knowledge about casting techniques, reading the water, and understanding fish behavior in Alaska’s unique ecosystems. You’ll likely move between spots during the day, depending on fish activity and weather. Throughout the trip, your fishing guide will assist with line management, fly selection, and netting your catch. This is a huge benefit of going with a guide as they can offer a seasoned pair of hands to help with any issues you run into.

5. Wrapping Up And Post-Trip Debrief

At the end of the trip, you’ll return to the launch point and clean up. Most guides offer a quick recap of the day, sometimes including photos, fish counts, and helpful advice for your next trip. Some even offer fish processing options if your trip involves harvestable species.This final step is a chance to reflect, learn, and maybe even start planning your next Alaska fishing adventure.

Booking an Anchorage fly fishing guide isn’t just about catching fish, it’s about creating a memorable, educational, and enjoyable experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Ready to plan your Alaska fly fishing trip? Reach out to Jason’s Guide Service today to book your next adventure.

 

3 Steps In A Anchorage Fly Fishing Guide Process

Fly fishing in Alaska is an unforgettable adventure that connects people with nature, tranquility, and world-class fish. At Jason’s Guide Service, we’ve spent over 31 years helping anglers make the most of their time on the water. As a trusted Anchorage, AK fly fishing guide, we’re permitted through Alaska State Parks and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge to guide on some of the most scenic and productive waters in the region. Working with a local guide is a great option as we have the best relationships with the local agencies, and we know the best spots to visit.

1. Planning Your Trip

Before you ever cast a line, the journey begins with planning. This includes choosing the right time of year for your target species whether it’s rainbow trout, salmon, or grayling and selecting the waterway that matches your skill level and goals. Our team works with each guest to customize a trip that aligns with their expectations, helping with everything from travel logistics to lodging recommendations. We also advise on appropriate permits, seasonal patterns, and regional fly trends so that every aspect of the adventure is set up for success.

Timing your visit is critical. Spring brings aggressive rainbow trout, while summer sees the return of king and sockeye salmon. Fall offers solitude and trophy grayling in certain waters. With our help, anglers can match their travel dates to peak fishing conditions, making the most of every outing. Our Anchorage fly fishing guide will advise you when is the best time to visit for the fish you want to catch.

 

3 Steps in a Anchorage Fly Fishing Guide Process
Preparing Gear And Learning Techniques

2. Preparing Gear And Learning Techniques

Once your trip is booked, we’ll help you get ready for the experience. That might mean suggesting proper fly patterns, gear lists, and what to wear on the water. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or experienced, our guides provide personal instruction tailored to your comfort level. We focus on casting techniques, reading the water, and understanding fish behavior to give you the best chance at a successful day.

Typical gear includes 5- to 8-weight rods depending on target species, floating or sink-tip lines, and well-matched leaders. We also cover essential clothing layers for Alaska’s unpredictable weather, along with polarized sunglasses, waterproof bags, and bear-safe food storage.

Instruction is personalized as some anglers want to master the double haul or improve their roll cast, while others simply want guidance on reading seams and structure. We meet each guest where they are to make the trip both educational and enjoyable.

3. Fishing With A Licensed Guide

When it’s time to fish, you’ll benefit from our years of experience and deep knowledge of local waters. We navigate current conditions, monitor fish activity, and position you for the best opportunities to land memorable catches. More than just helping you catch fish, we offer an immersive outdoor experience that celebrates the beauty of Alaska and the joy of fly fishing.

Each day begins early, with gear checks and weather briefings. Our guides transport guests by boat or foot into remote, productive locations few others know. We practice ethical catch-and-release methods when appropriate and share insight into river ecology and wildlife encountered along the way from bald eagles and moose to spawning salmon.

Whether you’re visiting from out of state or looking to experience Alaska from a new perspective, Jason’s Guide Service delivers professionalism and passion on every guided trip. If you’re planning a trip and want to make it truly unforgettable, reach out to the Anchorage fly fishing guide team at Jason’s Guide Service. Contact us today to get your next trip set up for your perfect catch.