Fly-in Fishing Trips

A fishing trip using a float plane to access remote lakes in the Park or Preserve can be a unique wilderness experience. Lakes such as Tebay, Summit, Rock, Ptarmigan, Copper, and Tanada are popular fly-in fishing destinations. Contact tour operators in the area for more information on fly-in fishing opportunities.

Road accessible fishing opportunities in the park and preserve are limited. The information below indicates roadside lakes and streams with fish in them. While these lakes are located on or near the roads which enter the Park and Preserve, public access to them may be across private property. Check with the landowner for permission, and respect private proptery as posted.

See Frequently Asked Questions for more information on fishing at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

Nabesna Area Fishing

Water: Rufus Creek
Species: Dolly Varden
Mile: 6.0
Location/Access: Spring fishery

Water: Rock Lake
Species: Rainbow Trout, Grayling, Silver Salmon, Lake Trout
Mile: 22.2
Location/Access: n/a

Water: Long Lake
Species: Grayling, Burbot
Mile: 22.7
Location/Access: Pull-off present

Water: Jack Lake
Species: Grayling, Whitefish, Lake Trout, Burbot
Mile: 26.0
Location/Access: Hike 1 mile S. of road; Private Land

Water: Twin Lakes
Species: Grayling, Whitefish, Lake Trout, Burbot
Mile: 28.0
Location/Access: Primitive Campsites

Water: Jack Creek
Species: Grayling
Mile: 35.9
Location/Access: Primitive Campsites

Water: Copper & Tanada Lakes
Species: Grayling, Lake Trout, Burbot
Mile: 35.9
Location/Access: Access by float plane, foot, or ATV

McCarthy Road Fishing

Water: Copper River
Species: Red Salmon, King Salmon
Mile: 0.7
Location/Access: Campground

Water: Strelna Lake
Species: Rainbow Trout, Silver Salmon
Mile: 10.2
Location/Access: Trail; Lake 1/3 mile north; Private

Water: Silver (Van) Lake
Species: Rainbow Trout
Mile: 10.7
Location/Access: Trail; Lake 1/4 mile south; Private

Water: Sculpin (Nelson's) Lake
Species: Rainbow Trout
Mile: 12.2
Location/Access: 1/4 mile south; Private

Water: Strelna Creek
Species: Dolly Varden
Mile: 15.0
Location/Access: Fair fishing

Water: Long Lake
Species: Garyling, Burbot, Lake Trout, Silver Salmon, Dolly Varden
Mile: 44.6
Location/Access: Private land

The National Park Service and the State of Alaska cooperatively manage the wildlife resources of the Park and Preserve. An Alaska State fishing license is required for all anglers age 16 or older. Bag and possession limits vary by species and by area. Always check current fishing regulations. For further information on Alaska sport fishing, contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. See Resources for address and phone number.

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