Alaska's weather can vary 40-50 degrees from morning to
dark.
The massive fluctuation isn't rare...it's the norm...so be prepared.
What you wear can mean the difference between comfortable fishing and hypothermia.
Layering is the secret. Several layers of lightweight materials will keep you far warmer than a single wool sweater.
While you're packing, though keep in mind that weight matters.
Because you're flying on a small float plane, you're limited to 40 pounds of gear.
You can pack that 40 pounds any way you wish, or you can follow a packing system that we've developed...learning from trips over the years that have left
people miserable with wet, cold clothes and gear.
YOU WILL NEED 3 SOFT "DRY BAGS":
1. Fishing Clothes
WADERS-Chest waders with felt soled wading shoes are recommended (please do not bring shoes with stream cleats or studs...they damage our boats and are not necessary to wade through most rivers).
Neoprenes are warm and durable, however they can be extremely
uncomfortable if you're continuously taking them off and putting them back on while they're still wet.
Breathables are lightweight, comfortable and quick to dry, but be sure to wear a pair of thermal underwear or some type of warm synthetic pants underneath. Breathable waders are not very warm on their own.
Wool socks will help keep your feet warm inside your chest wader booties.
On your top half, we suggest some type of thermal
undershirt poly pro and capeline materials are recommended because they absorb moisture from the skin, yet stay warm when they get damp.
You can layer with a wool sweater and a windproof
jacket.
If you get too warm, you can always take off some layers.
2.
Camp Clothes
We suggest keeping your camp clothes in a separate dry bag for that very reason...after fishing all day (possibly in pouring rain) dry clothes feel almost as good as a hot shower (which we'll provide).
You can get by wearing jeans, but we strongly recommend you bring at least one pair of pants made from a
synthetic material. If jeans get wet, they stay wet.
2-3 Wool or chamois shirts
A Fleece pullover and a windproof jacket works well around an evening campfire.
Pack at least one heavy wool sweater in case you get chilled during the day and need to insulate your body with some extra heat.
Several pairs of thermal socks are suggested.
Waterproof hiking boots or hunting shoes
Tevas or durable, waterproof sandals for warm, dry days.
While you're packing keep in mind that you'll be in the bush and will probably wear many of the same clothes throughout the
week.
SLEEPING BAG: A quality bag rated below 0 degrees. The insulation should be synthetic so that it dries quickly if it gets wet.
Self-inflating sleeping pad - 3 inches thick. (Make sure it is compact and
lightweight, yet still provides back support and protection from rocky ground)
Camp pillows - (a luxury, but they do pack down in very small stuff sacks).
MISCELLANEOUS CAMP BAG ITEMS:
Weatherproof or waterproof camera
Wool stocking hat
Baseball cap
Head Net
Compass/Map
Washcloth
Wet wipes
Soap
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Deodorant
Prescription Medications
Small Flashlight/Headlamp
Insect Repellant (100% Deet)
Prescription Glasses with durable case
3.
Boat Bag
RAIN GEAR: Quality, strong, sturdy rain gear jackets and pants are a must!
You may want to bring two kinds...Helly Hanson rubberized canvas for the days the rain really comes down and a lighter weight set for drizzle or off/on rainy days.
If you're wet and it's 60 degrees outside, you will most likely be much colder than if
you're dry under a pair of Helly Hanson's when it's 45 degrees outside.
Keep your rain gear in the boat...easily accessible at all times.
RECOMMENDED FISHING ITEMS YOU'LL NEED HANDY IN THE BOAT BAG:
Weatherproof or waterproof camera with extra film
Water Bottle
Waterproof watch (if time matters to you while you're out there)
Head net (mosquitos can be big and bad)
Neoprene or wool fishing gloves
Small Tackle box
Leatherman
"Polarized" Sunglasses (allows you to better see fish in the water)
Fishing Vest
Pliers
Hook Remover
Clippers or Scissors
Fly Box
Sunscreen
Chapstick
**Medium and large Ziploc Bags can waterproof items like cameras, books, playing
cards, etc.
Garbage bags can help waterproof clothes.**
Tackle AK Fishing License
