Is fishing in Alaska only for the experienced and seasoned angler? Certainly not. The adventure and exploration of new territory is what really makes the trip. The catching fish part is the icing on the cake and in some cases the required justification. As I have often said at least for me the most enjoyable part of going fishing is the going.

Even beginning anglers will get a thrill from their experience. A fantastic way to double the bang for your buck is to take a class to improve your fishing while you are on your Alaskan adventure. There are lots of fly fishing schools in Alaska that can show you the ropes at the same time as you are experiencing the unique Alaskan environment. There is no need to be a professional before trying your luck. In most cases guides will ensure that you catch fish no matter what your skill level.

For the more experienced there is no reason not to take advantage of the experience of your guide and their facility. One of the appealing aspects of fishing is the fact that perfection is a goal that will never be reached. We can all learn something. It should not be a matter of swallowing your pride to see that there are new tactics and techniques to be mastered. If you think of yourself as an expert in at least some aspects of the sport consider how you got there. It was through a long process of observation, practice and learning. That process should never end.

There is a lot of accumulated knowledge residing at Alaskan fishing lodges when you consider the owners, guides and even other guests are all there because they have gone through the same learning process that has honed your skills.

Don’t think that these schools are only for the fly fishers of the world. Many if not most of the lodges have instruction in bait casting as well. Some lodges will specialize in the instructional aspects of your stay and identify themselves as a fly-fishing or fishing “school”. If you are looking to improve your skills extensively look for a lodge that considers itself a “school”.
Some facilities focus more on the fishing experience, but even they will incorporate instruction on the water. They often will play it by ear and offer as much or as little instruction as they feel the guest desires. Make it clear that you are open to learning as much as possible and you will gain something that can be used the rest of your life.

Everybody can learn something each time they go out. It may be how to fish, how to fish better or how to fish better in Alaska. As a friend of mine often said “If you aren’t learning something every day, you are not paying attention.

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