Explore Local Waters

EXPLORE THE TALACHULITNA RIVER

Rainbow Trout in Alaska are one of the most sought after fish species in the state, and the Talachulitna River was named one of Alaska’s first catch-and-release rainbow trout fisheries.

Ever since the early 70’s, fishermen have been catching these “leopard-spotted” beauties and then saying a long tearful goodbye when released.

But not only does “The Tal” feature rainbow, it’s the spawning ground for five species of salmon. Just a ten minute boat ride up river and you’ll have the opportunity to catch kings, silvers, sockeyes, pinks and humpeys, not to mention a plethora of grayling and char.

And like our heli-fishing, you rarely see another angler. Midway on the Tal is unaccessible by float plane and besides Talaheim, there aren’t any lodges operating in the area.

Plus, exploring our local waters by boat is a fantastic way to catch wildlife sightings. It’s one thing to see a bear running from 100 meters in the air, but it’s a totally different experience to sneak up on a bear or moose in a boat as it crosses from one sandbar to the next. Make sure to have your camera ready on this day, because the Tal River does not disappoint.

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CAUGHT ON THE TALACHULITNA RIVER

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TALACHULITNA RIVER FUN FACTS

Talachulitna River means “river where blood was shed” or “river of blood.” There are two stories behind the title. One story states that the land was an ancient Indian battleground. The other story says that two Native Alaskans were trapping together when they got caught in a storm. Only one man brought a jacket warm enough, so the other man killed him.

We’ll have you know, regardless of which story is true, we’ve come a long way from our historical lineage. The only blood shed now is from fish, or the occasional bear, and although we don’t have many neighbors the ones we do have are life long friends.

Talachulitna Creek and the main river downstream is about 50 miles in length. Talachulitna Creek runs out of Judd Lake and eventually runs into the Skwentna River, a large glacier river. Although there is a lodge operating at Judd Lake and one at the mouth of the Tal, where it meets the Skwentna, Talaheim is the only lodge operating mid-way on the Talachulitna.
Primarily its accessibility. We used to land a float plane on our river below our lodge, but over the last 20 years the river has changed its course so much that landing is no longer possible. Talaheim built and currently owns and operates the only landing strip in the area. This makes landing and take offs much safer, but difficult for other lodges as building an airstrip in the wilderness is not an easy project.

TESTIMONIALS

I could never have imagined that a fishing trip even to Alaska could be as spectacular as this week has been at Talaheim Lodge. It will linger in my memory as one of the best experiences of my life, and made my 50th birthday a very special one indeed. I caught upwards of 100 fish across 8 species. A first in my life. The hospitality, food, drink and especially the person and service was all first class. I hope to come back with friends and family again in a few years Can’t wait!
Fritz
Colorado
This is my fourth trip to Talaheim, so I should say no more. Great hospitality, great fishing and adventure.
Val Linquest