We have many options for half day fishing here at Drifters’ Lodge. From a beautiful scenic float fishing trip on the Kenai River to a quiet, yet exciting walk-in fishing trip on the Russian River or Quartz Creek. These trips are a perfect fishing experience for the novice as well as the well-seasoned fishermen.

Trip Details:

All half day fishing trips are 4 hours that will leave from Drifters Lodge. Please dress warm and although Drifters Lodge rain-gear is available if you have your own it may be more comfortable.  Also, please bring anything you want to eat or drink while you are out fishing. Options for half day fishing are described below.

The Perfect Half Day: Drift the Upper Kenai River – June 11th – October 10th

Duration: 4 Hours – Departs from Drifter’s Lodge

The ideal half day drift boat fishing trip is for families or those anglers just wanting an opportunity to fish the World Famous Kenai River. The beautiful turquoise green waters and grand mountain scenery are sure to impress everyone. Parents with kids will be delighted with our guide’s willingness to take the time to patiently help the younger guests with their newly acquired fishing desires. All the while, the knowledgeable guide will be explaining the natural beauty and wildlife that surrounds you as you drift down the river. Experienced anglers and families with only enough time for a half day of fishing will be glad that they squeezed this trip into their busy Alaskan vacation.

Fishing for Arctic Char / Dolly Varden and Rainbow Trout will be the reward that will make memories not soon to be forgotten. These beautiful fish provide great photo ops and it’s quite a thrill when you see them swim away, too!

Red (Sockeye) and Silver (Coho) Salmon are available at certain times of the year. We start from the Kenai River Bridge and pass by Drifters Lodge, 400 yards down river as the Kenai River winds its way through the historic townsite of Cooper Landing, the Chugach National Forest and ending at Sportsman’s (Russian River) take out. The drift is seven miles of beautiful mountain scenery, wildlife viewing and Fishing. Your ears will be pleased as The Upper Upper Kenai is a drift only (no motors allowed) section of the River. In order to preserve the fishery, our guides practice catch and release for all Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden. We offer AM and PM trips daily. Due to the many hours of daylight we receive in the summer, later evening trips are available upon special request. Each drift boat has 4 available seats. Private boats for your group or family are available on request. All Professional Equipment is supplied (Simms & Patagonia Waders, G Loomis, Ross, Shimano, Sage, Temple Fork).

Quartz Creek: Walk In 1/2 Day Trips Available July 25th – Aug 30th

Duration: 4 hours – Departs from Drifters Lodge

This crystal clear, slow moving creek originates out of the Kenai range and gradually winds through Spruce forest before entering the massive glacial Kenai Lake. In August, this quiet stream becomes a Sockeye Salmon spawning war zone that attracts thousands of Arctic Char/Dolly Varden and Rainbow Trout into the fray. Sight fishing for these worthy game fish among hundreds of spawning Sockeye Salmon is the name of the game. Be ready for that sleeper rainbow hiding close to a log jam. We begin fishing this creek July 25th and offer trips through August. This is an experienced fisherman’s paradise and a beginner would easily have a great learning experience as well.  Bears are often seen when the salmon are present.

All Professional Equipment is supplied (Simms & Patagonia Waders, G Loomis, Ross, Shimano, Sage, Temple Fork).

​Species Targeted

  • ​Rainbow Trout / Dolly Varden Arctic Char ​Available July 25th – August 30th