Gulkana River Ranch Fishing Guides
"Your Home on the River"
Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to catch a King on the Gulkana?
The season runs from June 1-July 19. While the runs are not entirely predictable, the peak season is considered roughly June 25-July 7.

What gear do I need to bring?
We provide all fishing gear (hip boots, gear (spinning for kings and fly rods for reds) tackle, dry bags, bug dope, and lunch with full day trips. You should bring layers of clothing for any kind of weather, rain gear if appropriate, a camera, and whatever other personal gear you need.

What is typical summer weather in South central Alaska?
Plan for anything from a chilly 40 degrees to a sun-soaked 80. Dress in layers and prepare for weather changes.

What are my chances of catching a King on the Gulkana?
The fishing is great, the catching involves too many variables for predicting. Water levels, run strength and timing, as well as fishing experience all play a role. Typically though, if the fish are running, we will put you in the position to catch fish.

What if I have some physical limitations?
Most fishing can be done from the bank, but getting in and out of a raft can offer its challenges. With only two fishermen, we can fish from the raft, making it easier if mobility is an issue.

How well do children do on the river?
We've taken our children and many others on the river floating and fishing. Children of all ages do well on float trips. Fishing trips require patience and the gear is pretty big for younger children. Children over ten can definitely fish for kings. If you have younger children who have fishing experience, they should enjoy themselves.

How long is a full day?
8 hours A half day? 5 hours

When do we start fishing?
We like to start early--at least by six, earlier in hot weather and if river traffic is high. Is one time of day better than another? Bright conditions can make fishing tougher, so earlier is better. If the weather is cooler and overcast, the time of day is not as relative. Depending on your schedule, we can fish early in the morning, get off the river during the heat of the day, and fish again in the evening.

What is the average size of the Gulkana King?
Fish range from 15 to 50 lbs. with the average around 25, which is the statewide average.


Where do we launch the raft?
We primarily launch from our property on the Gulkana River and take out at the Richardson Highway crossing.

How many people does the raft hold?
We generally take no more than four people. At your request, I will take 5 from one party. If your party is larger, we can outfit a second raft, but the parties will be fishing separately. Your party (of two or more) will be the only group on the raft.

How can I take my catch home?
We will process and vacuum pack your fish if desired. We have freezer space for our guests and will freeze and arrange for Fed Ex shipping. An average fish filleted and packed in a styrofoam/cardboard fish box will cost around $80.00 to most locations in the U.S. Many opt to freeze their fish and take it with them on the airplane.

Gulkana River Ranch Fishing Guides
PO Box 168 - Gakona, AK 99586 - Mile 129 Richardson Hwy
907.822.3130 or 907.250.6129
fishon@gulkanariverranch.com