Deshka River Salmon Fishing
Deshka Landing is the gateway to many great freshwater salmon and trout fisheries in the Susitna River drainage. Whether you are an expert or novice fisherman or have never fished in your life, our experienced native Alaskan guides can assist you in realizing your quest for the Alaskan fishing experience of a lifetime. We are experts in all types of fishing from fly fishing to bait and lure fishing.
Run Timing
We have all 5 species of North Pacific salmon in the rivers near our lodge. The most sought-after salmon in Alaska is the Chinook (King or Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). The Chinook is the Alaskan state fish. These fish average 18 to 25 pound up to 50 pounds. The Deshka River and Willow Creek fisheries provide ample opportunity to catch trophy fish from late May through early June.
In mid July, the Coho salmon (Silver or Oncorhynchus kisutch) start their run. They are true acrobats. They average 8 to 12 pounds and can really put a smile on your face when they strike a fly or glob of eggs on light tackle. You’ll often see a hooked Coho “tail walk” across the river or jump several feet out of the water.
By mid July both the Humpy salmon (Pink or Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) and the Chum salmon (Dog or Oncorhynchus keta) begin to arrive in the river. These fish are excellent fighting fish on light tackle. Larger Chum can weigh as much as 18 pounds.
Fishing for large Rainbow trout in the late spring or late summer can test your fishing skills! Willow Creek is a trophy trout stream and, along with the Deshka River, offers an outstanding supply of great fighting fish all summer long. While the salmon are running, Rainbow trout are catch and release only on the Deshka. Trout are catch and release year ‘round in Willow Creek.