This trip takes you where most people can’t go. A 30-mile ATV ride up the Klutina Lake road leads to remote fishing spots on the upper river and lake. This is territory that’s best suited with a local guide who knows the sweet spots.
The upper Klutina is a different world from the lower river. Clearer water, trophy-size arctic grayling, dolly varden, and the same Copper River reds that make this drainage famous. If you want a true backcountry Alaska fishing experience, this is it.
You’ll meet at King For A Day Campground in the morning, gear up, and head out on ATVs for the ride upriver. The trail follows the Klutina through wilderness with wildlife sightings and terrain that ranges from forest trails to river crossings.
Once you reach the fishing spots, your guide puts you on the fish. Depending on the season, you’ll target grayling and dolly varden in the upper river, sockeye in the migration corridors, and anything else that’s running.
Departure: King For A Day Campground, 100.5 Richardson Highway, Copper Center
What’s Included: ATV, rod, tackle, flies, waders, bait, life vest, and guide.
What to Bring: Lunch and drinks, rain gear, layers, camera. Dress for variable weather. The upper river can be cooler than camp.
Season: May through September
Military discounts available | Kids 12 & under fish for half price
King Salmon (Chinook): The Klutina produces some of the biggest kings in the Copper River drainage. Season on the Klutina runs July 1 through August 10. Gulkana king season starts June 1 and runs through July 16.
Sockeye (Red) Salmon: The Copper River reds that restaurants charge $40/pound for? This is where they come from. Sockeye run offered only until July 19.
Combo Fishing: Our ATV trips target sockeye. You can also TARGET dolly varden, grayling, and rainbow trout depending on timing and location.
