PLAN YOUR ALASKA FISHING VACATION HERE.

Cooper Landing, AK...

..is a small mountain town on the Kenai Peninsula about 100 miles south of Anchorage.  A popular summer tourist destination, Cooper Landing boasts pristine scenery and robust wildlife populations, including moose, caribou, bald eagles, coyotes, wolves, river otters, bears (black and brown), trumpeter swans, mergansers, loons, cormorants--even the occasional harbor seal!  

The world-famous Kenai River originates at the bridge at Mile Marker 48 of the Sterling Highway in Cooper Landing and flows for about 75 miles to the ocean. The Russian River is also located in Cooper Landing and is well-known for its prolific rainbow trout and sockeye salmon fishery. These two rivers combine for some of the best sport fishing and guided fishing trips in Alaska.

Cooper Landing is known for its mountain and river scenery and there's no better way to take it all in than a quiet, guided drift boat fishing trip down the Kenai River! Cooper Landing Fishing Guide is happy to call this amazing place home and we'd love to share it with you while you're in town!

With all of its offerings, both apparent in the stunning beauty of the landscape and those to be discovered on a personal level, people keep coming back to enjoy Cooper Landing year after year. Let us help make memories of fishing in Cooper Landing that will last a lifetime! 

Read further about Cooper Landing Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing GuidE ReCOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Upper Kenai River

LODGING: Alaska Heavenly Lodge

ACTIVITIES: Hike Russian River Falls, Hike Slaughter Ridge, Kenai Lake Kayaking

FOOD: Princess Lodge, Two Brothers Kenai Grill, Cooper Landing Brewing Company

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HOPE, ALASKA...

...has some unique history as it was named for "the very next visitor to step off" a boat shuttling newcomers to the area. That person was Percy Hope. There couldn't have been a more fitting name for the small prospecting town than Hope, as finding gold and prosperity was the hope of early settlers.

Hope is situated perfectly away from the usual hustle and bustle of the highway system leading from Anchorage to the greater Kenai Peninsula.  You'll know you've found Hope when you reach the dead end of the Hope Highway off of the Hope Highway/Seward Highway junction.  

If you're driving from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula, this charming little town is worth a stop. The Hope Highway winds through scenic, rural Alaska with rivers, forest, cascading mountains and the ocean all lining the roadway.  On a clear day, you may be able to spot Hope long before you reach it--across the waters of Turnagain Arm from the Seward Highway before you reach Girdwood.

While not reaching the epic numbers of the Kenai and rivers further south, the creeks and rivers in and around Hope do offer some salmon and trout fishing.  However, as there still are many active gold prospecting claims in the area, one does need to be aware of and obey private property laws/signs.  

Read further about Hope, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Resurrection Creek

LODGING: Visit Airbnb

ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting on Sixmile Creek, Historic Downtown, Hiking Resurrection Trail

FOOD: Seaview Cafe & Bar

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WHITTIER, AK...

Known as the gateway to Prince William Sound, Whittier, AK is a unique port town that offers an abundant amount of fun things to do and see. Whittier, AK is also one of our favorite places to visit when we aren't guiding on the Kenai or Kasilof Rivers.

The drive to Whittier features a one-way tunnel that cuts through the mountains dividing the Turnagain Arm and Prince William Sound (be sure to check the online schedule for latest tunnel information). Once you pass through the tunnel, you're greeted with towering mountains and a quaint seaport set among them.

Whittier is famous for halibut, salmon, shrimp and rock fish angling. Many of our clients take ocean whale watching tours and fishing charters out of Whittier and they always tell us how much they appreciate their unique experiences.

Read further about Whittier, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Saltwater Excursions, LLC - Shrimp, Halibut, Salmon

LODGING: Inn at Whittier

ACTIVITIES: Salmon Viewing, Whale/Wildlife Cruises

FOOD: Inn at Whittier

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THE MOTTO OF SEWARD, AK...

... "ALASKA STARTS HERE."

The port city of Seward, Alaska is a major hub of both commercial and sport fishing as well as a world-class tourist destination.  Visitors to Seward are captivated not only by the breathtaking mountain and sea port setting, but also the vast wildlife, glacier and sea life viewing opportunities. Known as the "gateway" to the Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward also boasts access to the Chugach National Forest and Caines Head State Recreation Area.  

Seward is served by the highway and railroad systems, giving visitors an opportunity to explore much of the Kenai Peninsula and interior of Alaska. Many guests fishing with Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC in Cooper Landing, AK will spend time in Seward, Alaska. One of the most popular activities, Seward fishing for halibut and salmon with many of the charter boat operations. Tours of the Kenai Fjords and glaciers are extremely popular as well. Seward, Alaska is located only a short 45 minute drive from the headwaters of the Kenai River located in Cooper Landing where Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC operates.

Guests staying in Seward will find world-class ocean fishing for Halibut, Salmon, Rock Fish and more! Located just a short 45 minute drive from Seward is Cooper Landing, home to the world-famous Kenai River. The Kenai River will provide excellent fly fishing and conventional fishing options, even if you choose to make Seward, AK your home-base.

Seward Fly Fishing options also include utilizing float tubes on some of the area mountain lakes. You’ll also find local fishing opportunities to fly fish on the ocean as well as on the nearby Seward tributaries.

Read further about Seward, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Miller's Landing, Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Kenai River, Kasilof River

LODGING: Miller's Landing

ACTIVITIES: Ocean Kayak Tours, Kenai Fjord Tours, Downtown Shopping

FOOD: Woody's Thai Kitchen, Seward Brewing Company, The Cookery

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MOOSE PASS, AK...

Blink twice and you might miss it on your way to Seward, but Moose Pass has all the charm and outdoor activities to fulfill your adventure needs!  Approximately 100 miles south of Anchorage and 28 miles north of Seward, the town of 219 is surrounded by the Chugach National Forest and Kenai Mountains.  It offers numerous hiking trails, as well as fishing and sightseeing opportunities.  

Moose Pass was originally “settled” in 1909, as a stop for gold miners on their way north.  Most prospectors moved through, but some stayed in the area and established gold mines at Crown Point, East Point, and Falls Creek.  As the railroad headed this direction, the town served as a construction camp, which led way to sawmills being built, to supply timber for hemlock ties.  The town was officially established in 1928, which, largely due to the Estes family, brought about a post office and grocery store (which is still in use today).  The town is designated as a National Heritage Community.   

Within this area alone, fishing may be found at Tern, Trail, Lower Kenai, Carter, Crescent, Grayling, Meridian, Leech, Ptarmigan, Jerome, and Vogt Lake, as well as Trail and Snow River and numerous creeks feeding this waterways. While some are stocked, they do offer ample rainbow trout and arctic grayling opportunities.  Countless salmon may be viewed at Tern Lake, which is also a popular bird viewing area.

If you are looking for a scenic hike, the trails in the vicinity offer something for every skill level and length.  More challenging alpine traverses such as Johnson Pass and Lost Lake Trails are nearby, but there are also shorter trails around the Primrose area, which are usually designated with signs from the road.  

If you should find yourself here in the winter, snowmachine riding, ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing all may be found locally.

Read further about Moose Pass, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Ptarmigan Creek, Flyout Fishing - Scenic Mountain Air

LODGING: Trail Lake Lodge, Midnight Sun, Renfro's Lakeside Retreat

ACTIVITIES: Flight-Seeing Tours - Scenic Mountain Air,

FOOD: Trail Lake Lodge

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GIRDWOOD, AK...

It's not surprising that Girdwood shares much of its historical beginnings with most of the small towns featured here. First operated as a gold mining town and supply camp, Girdwood was originally know as Glacier City. Girdwood, the current town's namesake, is named after James Girdwood, an Irish immigrant who had four gold claims on Crow Creek.

Girdwood is situated 36 miles south of Anchorage and 65 miles from our home base in Cooper Landing. If you're headed to the Kenai Peninsula, Girdwood is a must-see destination. Known as "Alaska's only year-round resort," Alyeska Resort is the signature highlight in town. Voted consistently in the top 10 nationally and internationally among ski resorts and ski towns. 

Winter in Girdwood lends itself to excellent conditions for downhill skiing and snowboarding, dog mushing, Nordic skiing, snowmobiling and heli-skiing.  The summer months are excellent for sightseeing, glacier-viewing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, hiking, scenic flights, glacier dog sledding, fishing and rafting.

Girdwood sits just minutes from a quick turn off the Seward Highway. Whether you're just stopping by for your last chance at fuel, or to ride the Tram to the top of Alyeska, make Girdwood, Alaska part of your journey to visit us at Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC!

Read further about Girdwood, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Kenai River

LODGING: Alyeska Resort

ACTIVITIES: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Alyeska Tramway, Winner Creek Hike and Hand Tram Ride, Crow Creek Gold Mine, Helicopter Tours, Glacier, Porage Glacier Valley, Alaska Railroad

FOOD: Jack Sprat Restaurant, Coast Pizza, Sitzmark, Double Musky Inn

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STERLING, AK...

"MORE THAN JUST A WIDE SPOT IN THE ROAD..."

As the Sterling Highway widens headed west from Cooper Landing, you'll pass through what looks like a relatively small highway town. It doesn't seem like there could be upwards of 5,000 residents inhabiting this area; however, the town of Sterling encompasses nearly 77 square miles and most residents live well off the highway.  

Sterling is located 138 miles southwest of Anchorage, 12 miles east of Soldotna and approximately 34 miles from Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC's home base in Cooper Landing.  

Sterling, Alaska is home to the famed "Middle Kenai River" with several access points conveniently located along the Sterling Highway. Most notably, the confluence of the Moose River and Kenai River at the Isaak Walton Recreation Site.  Bing's Landing is also a well-known campground and boat launch for those wishing to access the Kenai River.

Read further about Sterling, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Middle Kenai River

LODGING: Orca Lodge, Alaska Legends Kenai River Lodge

ACTIVITIES: Fishing, Hunting, Canoeing, Rafting

FOOD: Suzie's Cafe

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SOLDOTNA, AK...

Located 150 miles southwest of Anchorage and approximately 45 miles from Cooper Landing, Soldotna is 10 miles inland from Cook Inlet.  Originating in the 1940's as a series of homesteads from World War II veterans, the construction of the Sterling highway and Kenai Spur Road in the 1950's, as well as the discovery of oil in nearby Swanson River, increased the population of the area, as well as the economy.  

Due to its central location on the Kenai Peninsula, Soldotna has become a major retail hub, with many business, both large and small, calling the community home.  It is also the location of administrative offices for the Kenai Peninsula Borough, the regional hospital, and a multitude of other agencies, specifically those designated to protect and maintain the Kenai River and surrounding wildlife refuge.  

The city itself maintains five areas along the Kenai River, including Centennial and Swiftwater Campgrounds, Soldotna and Rotary Parks, and the Classic Walkway at the Soldotna Visitor Center. These facilities include stairways and boardwalks along the river and provide some onshore fishing opportunities, although they may be quite crowded depending on the time of year.  

Most of the land bordering these sites along the river is privately owned or heavily restricted due to the immense impact bank erosion has on the fishery.  The bridge in Soldotna marks the beginning of what is referred to as the "Lower Kenai River", which extends to Cook Inlet, and is influenced by the tides more so than other sections of the river.  

Read further about Soldotna, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Gudie, LLC - Lower Kenai River & Kasilof River

LODGING: Orca Lodge, Alaska Legends Kenai River Lodge

ACTIVITIES: Golf, Canoeing

FOOD: Acapulco Mexican Restaurant, Sawadee Blue Thai Food Truck, Golden International Chinese

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kenai, ak...

Read further about Kenai, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Lower Kenai River & Kasilof River

LODGING: Orca Lodge

ACTIVITIES: Captain Cook State Park, Beluga Whale Viewing, Old Town Kenai

FOOD: Burger Bus, Froso's, Thai Town

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Kasilof, AK...

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide's home away from home is no doubt Kasilof, AK, home of the Kasilof River - commonly referred to as the "little brother of the Kenai. Kasilof, AK is home to one of the best runs of King Salmon on the Kenai Peninsula. We offer guided fishing trips on the Kasilof River for both King Salmon and Sockeye Salmon.

Kasilof, Alaska is also known for its outstanding recreational opportunities on Tustumena Lake and surrounding National Wildlife Refuge. Kasilof is home to a large fleet of commercial fishing vessels and salmon canneries.

Read further about Kasilof, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC - Kasilof River

LODGING: Kasilof Cabins

ACTIVITIES: Wildlife Viewing, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting

FOOD: Tustumena Smoke House

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Homer, Ak...

"WHERE THE LAND ENDS AND THE SEA BEGINS..."

Situated at the southern-most point of the Sterling Highway, Homer, Alaska is known for its world-class fishing and recreation.  While the city itself is a 4.5-5 hour drive from Anchorage (2.5 hours from our home base in Cooper Landing), it is well worth the drive if you're looking to experience all of the charm of small-town Alaska.  Homer is the "halibut capital of the world" and offers tremendous ocean fishing both in Kachemak Bay and across, in the town of Seldovia (a 45 minute ferry ride from Homer). 

Of course, being on the water provides the freshest seafood in all of the local restaurants!  Kachemak Bay offers some of the finest oysters you're likely to encounter in your lifetime, along with halibut, salmon, cod, and rockfish (to name a few).  

If you need a break from the fishing, not a problem!  The views offered by the surrounding water and mountains are breath-taking, and there is no shortage of inspiration for photography.  Multiple hiking trails in and around Homer will get you out and about, interacting with the local flora and fauna.  The famed Homer Spit is a long, narrow piece of land which extends into the Bay and has a multitude of shops and galleries to explore along the boardwalk.  There truly is a little bit of something for everyone!    

Read further about Homer, Alaska on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide RECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Halibut, Salmon, Cod and Rockfish

LODGING: The Just Fish Inn

ACTIVITIES:  Scenic Drive down Sterling Highway, Homer Spit, Fly-Out Bear Viewing

FOOD: Pho and Thai Restaurant, Fat Olives, Kay Bay Kaffe

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TALKEETNA & DENALI, AK...

Talkeetna and Denali are some of the most popular destinations for visitors and local Alaskans alike. When we are not guiding fishing trips in Cooper Landing on the Kenai River, we love to visit Talkeetna and Denali. The drive from Cooper Landing takes approximately 4 hours to get to Talkeetna and roughly 7 hours to get to Denali National Park and Preserve.

Needless to say, the drive from Cooper Landing to Talkeetna and Denali is long, but well worth it. The drive is scenic with many stop-offs to enjoy local restaurants, fishing and wildlife viewing.

Read further about Talkeetna, Alaska on Wikipedia

Read further about Denali on Wikipedia

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide rECOMMENDS:

FISHING: Susitna Drainage Tributaries - Trout and Salmon Fishing

LODGING: Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge

ACTIVITIES: Jet Boat Canyon Tours, ATV Tours, Scenic Rafting, Downtown Shopping, Wal Mike's - Trapper Creek

FOOD: Kahiltna Bistro, Denali Brewpub

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