Baranof Wilderness Lodge
Alaska
Beneath the jagged granite peaks, the cold blue ice fields, the natural hot springs, and the thundering water fall that spills into the salmon filled sea, there is a lodge that is unique among those that we represent. More than a place to simply fly by, southeast Alaska’s Baranof Wilderness Lodge offers an unparalleled base for fly fishing one of the world’s most diverse and vibrant ecosystems.
From the comfort of their waterfront lodge, anglers of all skill levels can fly fish remote wilderness streams teaming with salmon and Dolly Varden, fish for halibut, bottom fish and Pacific salmon, sea kayak, whale watch, bear view or soak in the natural hot springs which first made Warm Springs Bay famous. With food and hospitality to match the grandeur and bounty of the region, Baranof Wilderness Lodge is a gem that families, couples, and serious anglers alike will find profoundly moving and pleasurable.
Location:
Baranof Lodge is located 20 minutes east of Sitka, Alaska (by air) on the eastern shore of Baranof Island.
Fishing Program:
Baranof Wilderness Lodge is blessed with a remarkable diversity of fresh and saltwater fly fishing opportunities. Fresh water anglers can fly fish crystal clear streams and secluded estuaries that have healthy populations of Pacific salmon (primarily pink, chum, and coho) as well as Dolly Varden. These stream mouths are accessed initially by boat from the sea and then anglers walk and wade their way upstream. Seeing another angler on any of these rivers is almost unheard of! Additionally there are several lakes within easy hiking distance that are loaded with aggressive cutthroat trout that respond exceedingly well to dry flies. The saltwater fishery is also exceptional and can provide remarkable sport for fly and conventional anglers alike. Of primary interest to fly anglers is the silver salmon fishery where anglers cast to silvers in the salt chuck. This fishery peaks from mid-August to mid-September. Conventional fishing for halibut and bottom fish is also popular. Anglers at the lodge fly fish freshwater systems and surrounding saltwater systems of Baranof Island, Admiralty Island, and Kuiu Island. Each evening, guests will select their preferred activity / venue for the following day.
Fish Processing - Each guest is provided with a fish box with some of their catch from the week vacuumed packed and frozen. There is a nominal charge for freezer storage service for one box per person for the overnight in Sitka.
Fisheries:
The unpressured waters around the lodge offer the most abundant and diverse salt and freshwater fly fishing available in Alaska. There are dozens of spectacular bays, estuaries, fishing streams and lakes within a short boat ride or hike from the lodge offer premier angling.
The salt water fishing ranges from fly casting for salmon in the open ocean and estuaries to fishing conventional tackle for halibut, king salmon and assorted bottom fish. The fresh water fishing is centered around fly fishing six nearby wilderness streams and rivers for Dolly Varden and assorted salmon depending on the time of year
Non-Angling Activities:
Non-anglers can enjoy whale-watching, crabbing, digging for clams, kayaking, beachcombing, and hiking breathtaking trails to alpine lakes. The porch of the lodge is another popular spot, as are the improved and unimproved (natural) hot springs. Massages are also available.
Accommodations and Meals:
Baranof Wilderness Lodge has a series of comfortable and spacious guest cabins and a main lodge surrounded by lush green ancient forests. Each cabin features a spacious covered porch, private bathroom facilities with hot showers, wash basins with hot and cold running water, baseboard heaters, and flush toilets. An on-site housekeeping staff provides towel and linen service. All cabins are equipped with 24 hour electricity (60hz AC) from the lodge’s own hydroelectric plant. The turbine is powered by nearby Sadie Creek, one of many nearby crystal clear streams that tumble down the lush green ancient forest surrounding the lodge. Hot tubs are situated in a grove of ancient trees, overlooking a fresh, clear mountain stream that surges past. Or you may select the tub on the deck, and view the magnificent panorama around the lodge - Warm Springs Bay, snow covered mountain peaks, soaring Bald Eagles. Exceptional meals are served family style at the main lodge and showcase the bounty of the local region including fresh halibut, salmon, crab, shrimp and clams. Their own vegetable and herb garden supplements the bountiful catch from the days' excursions.
The Base Camp (a deluxe, intimate tent camp), located 15 miles away, is limited to six guests per week and offers virtually all of the same activities as the lodge.
Sample Itinerary for a 5 Night / 5 1/2 Day Fishing Package:
Day 1: Fly to Sitka, AK and overnight.
Day 2: Early morning float plane flight to lodge. Fish full day.
Days 3-6: Four full days of fishing.
Day 7: Fish half day, take charter boat tour back to Sitka and overnight.
Day 8: Depart Sitka for home.
Complete Trip Details
