Okay, so when that floatplane landed on Goodnews lake, it was instant “wow.” We’re really out there, you know? The Alaska wilderness is seriously mind-blowing. It wasn’t just about chucking flies; Alaska Rainbow Adventures really throws you into this whole Alaska experience. And the “deluxe camping”? Seriously exceeded my expectations. Coming back to a cozy tent and a real cot after a day of fishing was the best. The guides? Total pros, but also super into the river, sharing all their knowledge and making sure we weren’t being dummies out there. Hanging out in the dinner tent or around the fire, swapping fish stories with everyone, was a blast. It wasn’t just about hauling in fish (though, yeah, the fishing on the Goodnews was epic); it was about ditching the everyday grind, getting totally in tune with nature, and making some killer memories in this crazy beautiful spot. The Goodnews, with Alaska Rainbow Adventures showing the way, totally blew me away. Definitely got that itch to go back. ~ Mark Roberts
Nestled deep within the pristine wilderness of Southwest Alaska’s Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, the Goodnews River reigns supreme as a world-class fishing sanctuary. This remarkable three-fork system – the North, Middle, and South forks – carves through an untouched landscape, offering a captivating diversity of fishing environments. From the intimate, gin-clear flows of its upper reaches to the broader, powerful currents nearing Kuskokwim Bay, the Goodnews teems with life. Your adventure begins the moment your floatplane touches down, granting exclusive access to this remote and breathtaking realm.
A Seasonal Symphony of Species:
The Goodnews River hosts an awe-inspiring annual migration of all five Pacific salmon species, alongside its prized resident populations of leopard rainbow trout, acrobatic sea-run Dolly Varden, and elegant Arctic grayling.
- King Salmon (Chinook): The river roars to life in late June and throughout July with the arrival of these majestic giants. Averaging an impressive 20-25 lbs, many chrome-bright kings exceeding 40 lbs grace these waters.
- Sockeye Salmon: The vibrant crimson of sockeye pulses through the river during their peak runs in early to mid-July. Their firm, flavorful flesh also makes them a desirable option for taking home, within regulations.
- Chum Salmon: Joining the early summer bounty, chum salmon are abundant in early to mid-July, offering exciting angling opportunities.
- Pink Salmon: In the even-numbered years, prepare for an astonishing spectacle as literally thousands of pink salmon surge into the river during mid-summer.
- Silver Salmon (Coho): As summer transitions into early fall (mid-July through early to mid-September), the aggressive and acrobatic silver salmon arrive. Known for their spirited fights and willingness to strike, they provide exhilarating action.
- Leopard Rainbow Trout: These stunning residents are a prized catch throughout the entire season. Averaging a healthy 18-22 inches, trophy-sized rainbows pushing 30 inches are a real possibility, often found shadowing the salmon runs to feast on their protein-rich eggs.
- Dolly Varden (Sea-Run): Following the salmon migrations in mid-July, the sea-run Dolly Varden offer exceptional fishing. Some of the largest specimens, reaching up to 30 inches, are encountered during this period as they eagerly target salmon eggs.
- Arctic Grayling: With their distinctive sail-like dorsal fins, Arctic grayling are present and eager to please all season long across the diverse habitats of the Goodnews River system.
Your Unforgettable Float Fishing Adventure with Alaska Rainbow Adventures:
For over three decades, Alaska Rainbow Adventures has been crafting exceptional guided float fishing expeditions in the Bristol Bay region, and other premier Alaskan rivers. Our unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled experiences has consistently earned us recognition as the top-rated float trip operator on the Goodnews River.
- Unrivaled Expertise: Our seasoned guides possess an intimate understanding of the Goodnews watershed, honed over years of fishing these very waters.
- Luxurious Wilderness Comfort: Forget spartan camping! We redefine backcountry accommodations with our “deluxe camping.” Expect spacious, rugged, weather-proof tents specifically designed for Alaska’s demanding conditions, complete with comfortable cots and chairs for a restful night’s sleep. A dedicated dining and socializing tent fosters camaraderie, and our private portable bathroom with a refreshing shower adds an unexpected touch of comfort to your wilderness immersion.
- Culinary Delights: Fuel your fishing days with hearty, delicious meals. We provide satisfying breakfasts to kickstart your mornings, fulfilling lunches enjoyed right on the water, and satisfying dinners prepared in camp. We are happy to accommodate any dietary preferences you may have – simply inform us in advance.
- Flexible Trip Durations: While our signature trips typically encompass eight days and seven glorious nights of fishing, we understand that schedules vary. Shorter or longer customized itineraries can be arranged for full groups on select trips to perfectly suit your availability.
- Optimized Fishing Platforms: Experience the river in comfort and stability aboard our custom-designed rafts (primarily Sotar and Aire). Each raft comfortably accommodates two anglers and a knowledgeable guide, featuring strategically placed front and rear seating for optimal casting angles. For enhanced maneuverability and efficiency, particularly for larger groups, we offer an trip option at additional expense for groups of six anglers that utilizes a dedicated gear raft. This allows our fishing rafts to remain light and nimble, ensuring you can access prime fishing spots with ease, and allows your camp to be set up and ready for you at the end of each day’s float.
- Personalized Guidance: To maximize your fishing opportunities and provide diverse perspectives, we often offer the option for anglers to rotate guides daily. This allows you to learn from different experts and experience various fishing techniques.
- A True Angler’s Pursuit: Our float trips are meticulously designed for passionate anglers seeking an authentic backcountry experience without sacrificing comfort. While we provide exceptional amenities, the focus remains squarely on world-class fishing and immersion in the raw beauty of Alaska.
- Tailored Adventures: Elevate your experience with our thoughtfully curated themed trips. Chase the silver bullet during “Coho Mania” in late August, sample the best of everything during “The Everything Trip” in late July/early August, or witness the stunning fall colors while targeting char, coho, and rainbows during our popular “Fall Extravaganza” in early September.
Gear Up for Success: Recommended Tackle:
Selecting the right tackle is crucial for maximizing your success on the Goodnews.
- For King Salmon: Arm yourself with a robust 10-weight fly rod paired with a reliable direct-drive reel boasting a powerful drag system and ample backing (at least 150 yards). A versatile selection of fly lines is essential, including floating lines for calmer stretches and a range of sink tips (T-8, T-12, T-14) or shooting heads (200-500 grain) to effectively present your fly in varying water depths and currents. For conventional gear anglers, a heavy-action rod matched with a reel featuring a smooth, strong drag spooled with 15-25 lb monofilament or braid is recommended.
- For Silver Salmon: An 8 or 9-weight fly rod with a floating line provides an excellent foundation, particularly when targeting aggressive silvers with topwater poppers. Shorter sink tips (5-6 feet in T8-T12) can also prove invaluable for presenting flies in slightly deeper runs. Spin fishing enthusiasts will find a medium-weight rod paired with 12-15 lb monofilament or braid well-suited for silvers.
- For Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Grayling: A versatile 6-weight or 7-weight fly rod is ideal for these species. Floating lines are generally preferred, and employing longer leaders can be advantageous in clear water conditions. For spin fishing, lighter rods and reels spooled with appropriate line weights will effectively cast and retrieve spinners, spoons, and jigs.
- Essential Considerations for All Anglers: Pack a diverse selection of fly lines and sink tips to adapt to the ever-changing moods of the river. Ensure your reel’s drag system is smooth and dependable. High-quality waders and appropriate wading boots are indispensable for comfortable and safe fishing throughout your trip.
The Allure of the Fly: Recommended Patterns:
Presenting the right fly at the right time is key to enticing the Goodnews’s diverse inhabitants.
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- For Salmon:Streamers: Enticing flashy patterns in a spectrum of colors – pink, orange, chartreuse, purple, blue, and black – are consistently effective. Marabou and bunny strip leeches are perennial favorites, and Clouser Minnows in various color combinations are always a smart choice.
- Egg Patterns: During the salmon spawning season, when trout and Dolly Varden gorge themselves on protein-rich eggs, bead eggs become an absolute staple.
- Poppers and Gurglers: For exhilarating topwater action, especially when targeting Silver Salmon, don’t leave home without craft foam gurglers in vibrant colors like pink or orange, often with a cerise marabou tail and an Estaz body for added attraction.
- Articulated Flies: These innovative patterns, with their multiple sections, create lifelike movement in the water, often preventing short strikes and allowing for larger, more enticing presentations.
- For Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden:Streamers: Similar in style to salmon streamers but often tied in smaller sizes to match the more delicate prey these fish often target.
- Dry Flies: In the clearer, upper reaches of the river, presenting well-tied dry flies can yield exciting results. Don’t overlook the effectiveness of mouse patterns, particularly for larger rainbows when the water begins to warm.
- Nymphs: A diverse selection of nymph patterns that imitate the prevalent mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies in the river will prove productive throughout the season.
For Arctic Grayling: Small, delicately tied nymphs and classic dry fly patterns are typically the most effective offerings for these elegant fish.
Angling Ethos: The Goodnews River demands respect for its wild inhabitants. Regulations strictly mandate the use of artificial flies and lures with a single hook only – treble hooks are absolutely prohibited. Embracing a conservation-minded approach, catch-and-release is the standard for all species, ensuring the health and abundance of this exceptional fishery for generations to come. The only exception? The occasional male salmon, destined to become a delicious highlight of your wilderness dining experience.
