Posted by Alaska Rainbow Adventures
The late August sun is blazing down on Alaska’s legendary Goodnews River, and the fishing reports coming in are nothing short of extraordinary. If you’ve ever dreamed of an Alaskan fishing adventure where the action never stops and the scenery takes your breath away, this is your moment.
A River on Fire
Our recent field reports paint a picture of fishing perfection. The lower Goodnews is experiencing what our guides are calling a “Coho bonanza” – chrome-bright silver salmon are stacked throughout the system, creating non-stop action that has anglers’ arms aching from the constant battles.
The numbers speak for themselves:
- Beginners: 20-30 Coho per day
- Experienced anglers: 60+ fish daily
- Average rainbow size: 20 inches
- Trophy rainbows: Mid-20s and larger
But it’s not just about the quantity – it’s the quality of the experience that sets the Goodnews apart.
More Than Just Coho
While the silver salmon steal the show with their acrobatic fights and aggressive strikes, the Goodnews offers a true multi-species paradise. The river’s famous “Leopard Rainbows” are fat, healthy, and displaying the spectacular spots that gave them their nickname. These resident trout, feeding on salmon eggs and flesh, average a solid 20 inches with some real trophies pushing into the mid-20s and beyond.
The Dolly Varden have been equally impressive, with our guides reporting “absolute monsters” providing some of the week’s hardest fights. Add in large Arctic grayling, and you have a fishing experience that caters to every angler’s dreams.
Perfect Conditions
This season’s weather has been nothing short of ideal. High temperatures in the low-to-mid 60s make for comfortable fishing in just a tank top, while clear nights dropping into the 40s provide perfect sleeping weather. Even the low water conditions, caused by the recent dry spell, haven’t dampened the fishing – in fact, concentrating the fish has made the action even more intense.
As one recent guest put it: “We’re all just soaking it in – the spectacular scenery, the acrobatic Coho, and the sheer joy of being on a river this wild.”
The Alaska Rainbow Adventures Difference
The Goodnews River represents everything we love about Alaskan wilderness fishing. This remote, wild river system offers over 490 miles of fishable water across three forks, providing endless opportunities for adventure. But wilderness doesn’t mean roughing it – our fully outfitted float trips combine the thrill of remote fishing with the comfort of professional guides, quality gear, Alaska’s most comfortable camps, and hearty meals.
Our experienced guides don’t just put you on fish – they share their passion for this incredible ecosystem and ensure every angler, regardless of experience level, has the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re perfecting your spey cast or learning to fish streamers for the first time, we’ll make sure you’re in the right place at the right time.
Book Now for 2026
Here’s the reality: word is spreading fast about the exceptional fishing on the Goodnews River. What was once Alaska’s best-kept secret is quickly becoming a must-fish destination for serious anglers worldwide.
Our 2026 dates are already booking at an unprecedented pace. The combination of world-class fishing, incredible scenery, and limited access means availability is extremely limited. If you want to experience the Goodnews bonanza for yourself, the time to book is now.
Don’t be the angler who hears about “the trip that got away” because you waited too long to secure your dates. The Goodnews River is fishing better than ever, and 2026 could be your year to experience it.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
The Goodnews River isn’t just a fishing trip – it’s a chance to disconnect from the everyday world and reconnect with the wild heart of Alaska. It’s about those moments when a chrome-bright Coho explodes on your fly, when a trophy rainbow bends your rod double, and when you realize you’re fishing in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.
Contact Alaska Rainbow Adventures today to secure your 2026 dates. The Goodnews bonanza is happening now, and we want you to be part of it.
Ready to book? Contact us at 1-907-357-0251 – your Alaskan adventure awaits!
