Alaskan Fishing Trip Essentials: What to Bring to Sportsman’s Cove Lodge

If you’re headed to Sportsman's Cove Lodge, the most important thing to understand is this:

Southeast Alaska is a rainforest. Weather changes fast. Mornings can be calm and cool, afternoons can bring wind and rain, and even sunny days carry ocean spray!

(this could be you...)

The anglers who stay comfortable are the ones who pack layers, waterproof protection and clothing for excursions off the boat.

Here’s exactly what we recommend:

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DRESS IN LAYERS (ALASKA STANDARD) Alaskan Fishing Trip Essentials: What to Bring to Sportsman’s Cove Lodge

You can always take layers off. You can’t put them on if you didn’t bring them.

1. BASE LAYERS • Long johns (top and bottom) – synthetic or merino wool • Moisture-wicking material only (no heavy cotton) • Worn under everyday clothes on the water

Base layers keep you warm even when the air is damp and cool.

2. MID LAYERS • Fleece pullovers or jackets

   • Hooded sweatshirts

   • Lined flannel shirts

   • Comfortable pants worn over your base layer

Mid layers provide insulation and can be added or removed throughout the day.

3. OUTER LAYERS

   • Fully waterproof rain jacket

   • Waterproof rain pants or bibs

   • Insulated or water-resistant jacket for colder mornings

Rain gear is not optional in Southeast Alaska. Even on calm days, many anglers wear rain gear to block wind and protect from spray.

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(Right where you want to be on a warm sunny day in Alaska)

HEAD, HANDS, EYES & FEET

1. HEAD

• Warm knit hat or beanie

• Brimmed cap for sun and glare. (You can always pick up a Sportsman's Cove baseball cap if you forget yours!)

Even in summer, early boat runs can feel chilly.

2. HANDS

• Fleece gloves or fishing gloves (we like these as one option)

• Fingerless gloves for dexterity while handling gear

3. EYES

• Polarized sunglasses (essential, these are a solid option)

Glare off the water is strong even on cloudy days. Polarized lenses reduce eye strain and help you see beneath the surface.

4. FEET

• Insulated waterproof hiking boots. (We'd recommend boat boots, but we supply those for you!)

• Wool socks

Boat decks get wet. Proper footwear keeps you steady, dry, and comfortable all day.

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(Apparently, comfortable enough for gymnastics! We welcome celebration dances in all forms...)

OTHER ITEMS YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU PACKED

• Small backpack or waterproof dry bag

• Sunscreen (yes, even in Alaska)

• Mosquito repellent for shore excursions

• Waterproof phone or camera case

• Motion sickness prevention if you’re unsure on boats...we don't like to turn around in the middle of the day!

• Alaska fishing license (Make sure to purchase yours before arrival!)

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WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME

• Dress clothes

• Heavy cotton hoodies and jeans as primary layers

• Fashion footwear

• “Water-resistant” jackets that aren’t truly waterproof

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FINAL CAPTAIN’S TIP

Pack for wet. Hope for sun!

If you stay dry and layered properly, you’ll fish longer, enjoy the experience more, and focus on what you came for — salmon, halibut, and time on the water.

Come prepared, and we’ll take care of the rest. 🎣

Alaskan Fishing Trip Essentials: What to Bring to Sportsman’s Cove Lodge

Want to learn more about what to expect on a trip up north with us? Check out this post about our WHY - https://www.sportsmanscovelodge.com/post/the-heart-blog1

Here is our complete list of what to pack. Print this out for a helpful checklist!

Recommended Packing List

 Driver’s license (must be REAL ID as of 2025 season)

 Fingerless/fishing wool or waterproof gloves (for overly wet or windy days)

 Sunglasses (for when we get beautiful weather)

 Sunscreen (also for beautiful weather)

 Lip balm with SPF (also for beautiful weather)

 Dramamine (if you get motion sickness)

 Baseball cap and/or beanie (to block out the sun or wind)

 Medicine & medical devices (complimentary vitamin c and Advil is available on site)

 Fleece/pullover (for overly wet or windy days)

 Base, insulation, and outer shell layers (for fishing)

 2-3 outfits of casual or business casual (whatever you feel comfortable in – complimentary

laundry facilities are available for guest use)

 Boot inserts/gel insoles (for boots provided and overall comfort)

 Cash (for miscellaneous expenses in town and customary gratuities)

 Personal hygiene items & toiletries

 Batteries & chargers

Note: guests must be mindful of weight for float plane transfer. Guests are recommended to pack a 40 lb carry on and personal item. The lodge has complimentary laundry facilities on site.

Optional Packing Recommendations

 Waterproof phone case or pouch (days can be wet)

 Neck gaiter (days can be windy)

 Hand warmers (days can be cold)

 Wool or thermal socks (days can be cold)

 Hiking boots (if you’d like to explore our trails)

 Swimsuit for hot tub (if you plan on utilizing)

 Gym clothing for fitness center (if you plan on working out)

 Pillow (the rooms have them, but we know people have their favorites! And you might want one for the flight over)

 Specialty hair conditioners & shampoos (if you have preferred soaps)

 Download movies/tv shows (Wi-Fi speeds can be slow with inclement weather)

 Individual binoculars (wildlife viewing)

Guest Inclusions | Amenities on-site

Fishing boots, bibs, & jackets (sizes range small-3XL, 6-15 boot size)

Rods, reels, bait, etc

Washers & dryers for your use

Individually wrapped room water cups

Boot heater upon request

Extra blankets

Hair dryers

Iron + ironing board

Wood hangers

Customary linens & pillows

Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, & bar soap

Boat Bluetooth speakers

Sleep masks