Fishing in Bristol Bay, Alaska, on April 9, 2025, offered anglers a mix of prime opportunities and seasonal changes. The day began with a sunrise at 8:03 am local time and concluded with sunset at 9:27 pm, providing plenty of daylight to hit the waters. Weather conditions hovered in the mid-40s Fahrenheit, with a partly cloudy sky and gentle winds—a relatively calm spring day perfect for fishing.

The tidal schedule from Port Moller showed a high tide at 4:59 am at 11.59 feet, a low tide at 10:45 am at 4.15 feet, another high tide at 3:58 pm at 9.2 feet, and a final low tide at 10:49 pm at -1.9 feet. Planning your fishing during the changing tides proved essential, as fish tend to be more active during these transitions.

Fishing activity in Bristol Bay today highlighted the area's robust sockeye salmon runs. While the peak of the sockeye season is later in the summer, the 2025 forecast is promising, with an estimated run of over 49 million fish this season. Subsistence anglers reported fair success with sockeye and coho salmon catches in freshwater tributaries such as the Nushagak and Kvichak River systems. However, keep in mind regulations heavily restrict bait use; only unbaited, single-hook artificial lures are allowed, emphasizing preservation efforts for the area's pristine fisheries.

Popular lures included bright, vibrant patterns of artificial flies and spinners, with chartreuse and pink proving most effective. Local wisdom suggests using lures that mimic salmon fry or smelt to entice larger predator fish. While bait is prohibited, anglers targeting rainbows or Dolly Varden in the still-open areas found success with smaller, naturalistic patterns like bead-head nymphs or egg-imitation flies.

Hot spots today included the mouth of the Nushagak River, where salmon begin their migration, and Lake Aleknagik near the Wood River system. These areas consistently produce good catches and featured moderate fishing pressure. Anglers targeting species like Arctic char found luck in the deeper pools of the Agulowak River.

While regulations require catch-and-release for rainbow trout and limit retention of gamefish, most anglers reported excellent sport fishing. By adhering to these rules, the Bristol Bay ecosystem continues to support the world's largest sockeye salmon population, along with thriving populations of other salmon species and resident fish. For the best experience, follow local advisories and enjoy the pristine waters of this angling haven responsibly.

Fishing Report for Bristol Bay, Alaska
April 4, 2025

Greetings from Bristol Bay! Today’s fishing scene is shaped by the changing tides, active salmon runs, and improving springtime weather. The tides at Port Moller this Friday show a high tide at 4:59 AM reaching 11.59 feet and another at 3:58 PM at 9.2 feet. Low tides occur at 10:45 AM, dropping to 4.15 feet, and again at 10:49 PM with a significant dip to -1.9 feet. Sunrise will brighten the waters at 8:03 AM, and the day stretches until sunset at 9:27 PM. With the weather forecast showing mild conditions and improving visibility, anglers should have excellent opportunities throughout the day.

Currently, the main focus is on the famous sockeye salmon of Bristol Bay. This year’s early forecast predicts 51.3 million sockeye salmon, offering abundant fishing potential. Though it’s still early in the season for peak salmon harvests, a mix of sockeye, chum, and the occasional king salmon can be expected. Sockeye are projected to weigh an average of 5.7 pounds, a significant size boost compared to last year.

Fishing has been particularly good near the Nushagak and Wood River systems, two prime locations for sockeye salmon. The Naknek and Kvichak Rivers are also hotspots worth checking out, especially as fish begin to trickle in during the early season. These areas have seen some success with anglers casting artificial lures, especially spoons and spinners in red, green, and silver colors. Bright, flashy lures mimic baitfish well and are effective in drawing strikes from salmon coming inshore.

Be sure to follow current fishing regulations. Only unbaited, single-hook, artificial lures are permitted year-round in both saltwater and freshwater areas of Bristol Bay. Rainbow trout, a favorite for sport anglers, are strictly catch-and-release.

For a productive day, focus your efforts during the incoming tide, as the fish tend to move closer to shore during these periods. If you’re fishing the outgoing tide, try deeper channels as the fish follow the water flow. Both shore and boat anglers have reported moderate success today, and larger schools are anticipated as the season progresses.

For the best chances today, head to the Nushagak River near its delta or the calmer waters of Lake Aleknagik at the mouth of the Wood River. These spots have seen steady action. Ensure your gear is ready for cold water and unpredictable weather, and bring plenty of patience. Bristol Bay fishing isn’t just a sport—it’s an adventure!

Best of luck, and tight lines!

Good morning, anglers. April 4, 2025, brings a promising day for fishing in the Bristol Bay area of Alaska. Here’s what’s happening on the water today.

We’ve got excellent weather this morning with overcast skies lingering through the day, staying cool and crisp. Sunrise is at 8:03 AM, and sunset is a lengthy 9:27 PM, giving plenty of daylight to get out and hook fish. The tides are notable today around Port Moller: a high tide peaking at 11.59 feet at 4:59 AM, followed by a low tide of 4.15 feet at 10:45 AM, then another high tide of 9.2 feet at 3:58 PM. Low tide dips again to -1.9 feet at 10:49 PM, which could make the evening bite productive.

Sockeye salmon are the big news this season, with a forecasted run of over 51 million fish expected this year. While this projection is slightly below the ten-year average, it’s still strong and bodes well for the summer fishery ahead. Currently, water temperatures, flows, and clarity are favorable for targeting Bristol Bay’s iconic species. Arctic char, grayling, and rainbow trout are also active this time of year, with catch-and-release fishing allowed for those rainbows.

Regulations are strict in these parts. You’re required to use unbaited, single-hook, artificial lures only. For those looking to target trout or char, try bright-colored spoons or streamers. Patterns like bead-head nymphs and minnow imitations work wonders in the clear waters of the rivers feeding into the bay. For sockeye, nothing beats smaller, brightly colored flies like a Coho fly or a green or pink pattern.

For today’s hotspots, consider the Naknek River for its productive waters and consistent trout action. Another great location is the lower stretches of the Nushagak River, where char and grayling are biting actively. Reports from Port Moller Test Fishery indicate a slower start to this season, but vintage locations near productive currents in the bay and along shoreline drop-offs should yield results.

Lastly, remember that rainbow trout are strictly catch-and-release until April 9, and bait remains prohibited throughout the year. Stick to artificial lures and enjoy the unspoiled wilderness Bristol Bay offers.

Tight lines, and may the fish be biting!

Good morning, folks! This is Artificial Lure, bringing you the latest fishing report for Bristol Bay, Alaska, on this fine Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Looks like we’ve got a great day ahead for anglers, so let’s dive into the details.

The tides today for Port Moller in Bristol Bay: we had a high tide early at 2:57 AM measuring 11.36 feet, and the next low tide will be around 9:23 AM at 4.4 feet. Another high tide will roll in this afternoon at 3:23 PM, reaching 10.1 feet. Plan your fishing around that tidal movement, as fish tend to be more active during these shifts.

The sunrise was at 8:03 AM, and sunset won’t be until 9:27 PM, offering you plenty of daylight to hit the water. The skies are clear, and temperatures are hovering around 45°F. Winds are light out of the southeast, making it a calm day for some stellar fishing.

Sockeye salmon are still the big story here. This year’s forecast predicts a run of approximately 49.6 million sockeye, slightly below average but still promising a solid harvest. Recent catches have been steady, with anglers reporting good numbers of sockeye, as well as some chum salmon and the occasional king salmon in deeper waters. For trophy hunters, rainbow trout are always a catch-and-release favorite and remain active.

Local regulations require single-hook, unbaited artificial lures year-round in Bristol Bay waters. Based on recent reports, brightly colored streamers and spoons have been working wonders for sockeye. For chum and rainbow trout, bead rigs mimicking salmon eggs are a must. Remember, no bait is allowed, and catch-and-release is mandatory for species like rainbow trout.

Some hotspots worth checking today are the Nushagak River and the Togiak River. The Nushagak is known for its large sockeye returns, while the Togiak offers opportunities for kings and other salmon species later this season. Keep an eye on the water temperature and focus your efforts on deeper pools and runs where fish tend to congregate.

That wraps up today’s report. Tight lines, and may your nets be heavy!

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Bristol Bay fishing report for March 31, 2025. It's shaping up to be a decent day out on the water, but bundle up 'cause it's still chilly.

Tides are running pretty normal today. We've got a low tide of 0.3 feet at 3:55 AM and a high of 9.7 feet at 10:45 AM. Another low of 3.8 feet comes in at 4:38 PM, followed by an evening high of 8.0 feet at 10:09 PM. Sun's coming up at 8:12 AM and setting at 8:41 PM, so we're gaining daylight fast.

Weather-wise, it's looking partly cloudy with highs around 42°F and light winds from the northeast at about 5-10 mph. Not too shabby for late March in these parts.

Fish activity is really picking up as we get closer to spring. We're seeing some great rainbow trout action, especially in the Naknek and Kvichak rivers. Anglers have been hooking into some beauties in the 20-26 inch range using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char are also showing up in good numbers, with folks landing 3-6 pounders.

For lures, I'd recommend packing some Mepps spinners in size 2 or 3, particularly in silver or gold. Blue Fox Vibrax in size 2 have also been producing well. If you're fly fishing, don't forget your egg patterns and leech imitations in darker colors.

As for bait, salmon eggs are always a good bet this time of year. Some folks have had luck with small chunks of sardine or herring too.

A few hardy souls have been catching some early run kings in the lower Nushagak, mostly on Kwikfish and Spin-N-Glos. The Naknek River near King Salmon has also been producing some nice rainbows for anglers using bead setups and flesh flies.

Hot spots to check out include the mouth of the Naknek River and the area around Graveyard Point. The Kvichak River near Igiugig has also been producing some nice catches. If you're after grayling, try heading up to the Alagnak River - they've been hitting dry flies pretty consistently in the afternoons.

Looking ahead, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is forecasting another strong sockeye run to Bristol Bay this summer - they're predicting over 50 million fish. That should make for some great fishing come June and July.

Remember, it's still early in the season, so patience is key. But things are definitely heating up around here. Tight lines, and hope to see you out on the water soon!

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Bristol Bay fishing report for March 30, 2025. It's shaping up to be a decent day out on the water, but bundle up 'cause it's still chilly.

Tides are running pretty normal today. We've got a low tide of 0.3 feet at 3:55 AM and a high of 9.7 feet at 10:45 AM. Another low of 3.8 feet comes in at 4:38 PM, followed by an evening high of 8.0 feet at 10:09 PM. Sun's coming up at 8:12 AM and setting at 8:41 PM, so we're gaining daylight fast.

Weather-wise, it's looking partly cloudy with highs around 42°F and light winds from the northeast at about 5-10 mph. Not too shabby for late March in these parts.

Fish activity is really picking up as we get closer to spring. We're seeing some great rainbow trout action, especially in the Naknek and Kvichak rivers. Anglers have been hooking into some beauties in the 20-26 inch range using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char are also showing up in good numbers, with folks landing 3-6 pounders.

A few hardy souls have been catching some early run kings in the lower Nushagak, mostly on Kwikfish and Spin-N-Glos. The ice fishing has been decent too, with nice rainbow trout and Arctic char being pulled through the ice on Aleknagik and Iliamna lakes.

For lures, I'd recommend packing some Mepps spinners in size 2 or 3, particularly in silver or gold. Blue Fox Vibrax in size 2 have also been producing well. If you're fly fishing, don't forget your egg patterns and leech imitations in darker colors.

As for bait, salmon eggs are always a good bet this time of year. Some folks have had luck with small chunks of sardine or herring too. For ice fishing, small jigs tipped with salmon eggs or waxworms have been working well.

Hot spots to check out include the mouth of the Naknek River and the area around Graveyard Point. The Kvichak River near Igiugig has also been producing some nice catches. If you're after grayling, try heading up to the Alagnak River - they've been hitting dry flies pretty consistently in the afternoons.

Looking ahead, ADF&G is forecasting another strong sockeye run to Bristol Bay this summer - they're predicting over 50 million fish. That should make for some great fishing come June and July.

Remember, it's still early in the season, so patience is key. But things are definitely heating up around here. Tight lines, and hope to see you out on the water!

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Bristol Bay fishing report for March 28, 2025. It's shaping up to be a decent day out on the water, but bundle up 'cause it's still chilly.

Tides are running pretty normal today. We've got a low tide of 1.11 feet at 3:35 AM and a high of 9.47 feet at 10:00 AM. Another low of 2.43 feet comes in at 4:19 PM, followed by an evening high of 9.15 feet at 10:17 PM. Sun's coming up at 8:21 AM and setting at 9:13 PM, so we're gaining daylight fast.

Weather-wise, it's looking partly cloudy with highs around 42°F and light winds from the northeast. Not too shabby for late March in these parts.

Fish activity is really picking up as we get closer to spring. We're seeing some great rainbow trout action, especially in the Naknek and Kvichak rivers. Anglers have been hooking into some beauties in the 20-26 inch range using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char are also showing up in good numbers, with folks landing 3-6 pounders.

For lures, I'd recommend packing some Mepps spinners in size 2 or 3, particularly in silver or gold. Blue Fox Vibrax in size 2 have also been producing well. If you're fly fishing, don't forget your egg patterns and leech imitations in darker colors.

As for bait, salmon eggs are always a good bet this time of year. Some folks have had luck with small chunks of sardine or herring too.

Hot spots to check out include the mouth of the Naknek River and the area around Graveyard Point. The Kvichak River near Igiugig has also been producing some nice catches. If you're after grayling, try heading up to the Alagnak River - they've been hitting dry flies pretty consistently in the afternoons.

Remember, it's still early in the season, so patience is key. But things are definitely heating up around here. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is forecasting another strong sockeye run to Bristol Bay this summer - they're predicting over 50 million fish. That should make for some great fishing come June and July.

Tight lines, and hope to see you out on the water!

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Bristol Bay fishing report for March 26, 2025. It's shaping up to be a decent day out on the water, but bundle up 'cause it's still chilly.

Tides are running pretty normal today. We've got a low tide of 0.17 feet at 1:49 AM and a high of 9.8 feet at 10:32 AM. Another low of 3.7 feet comes in at 4:25 PM, followed by an evening high of 8.1 feet at 9:56 PM. Sun's coming up at 8:37 AM and setting at 9:01 PM, so we're gaining daylight fast.

Weather-wise, it's looking partly cloudy with highs around 38°F and light winds from the northeast. Not too shabby for late March in these parts.

Fish activity is really picking up as we get closer to spring. We're seeing some great rainbow trout action, especially in the Naknek and Kvichak rivers. Anglers have been hooking into some beauties in the 20-26 inch range using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char are also showing up in good numbers, with folks landing 3-6 pounders.

For lures, I'd recommend packing some Mepps spinners in size 2 or 3, particularly in silver or gold. Blue Fox Vibrax in size 2 have also been producing well. If you're fly fishing, don't forget your egg patterns and leech imitations in darker colors.

As for bait, salmon eggs are always a good bet this time of year. Some folks have had luck with small chunks of sardine or herring too. Remember, in most areas, only unbaited, single-hook, artificial lures are allowed, so check those regs before you head out.

Hot spots to check out include the mouth of the Naknek River and the area around Graveyard Point. The Kvichak River near Igiugig has also been producing some nice catches. If you're after grayling, try heading up to the Alagnak River - they've been hitting dry flies pretty consistently in the afternoons.

Looking ahead, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is forecasting another strong sockeye run to Bristol Bay this summer - they're predicting over 50 million fish. That should make for some great fishing come June and July.

Remember, it's still early in the season, so patience is key. But things are definitely heating up around here. Tight lines, and hope to see you out on the water!

Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Bristol Bay fishing report for March 24, 2025. It's shaping up to be a decent day out on the water, but bundle up 'cause it's still chilly.

Tides are running pretty normal today. We've got a low tide of 0.2 feet at 3:42 AM and a high of 9.8 feet at 10:32 AM. Another low of 3.7 feet comes in at 4:25 PM, followed by an evening high of 8.1 feet at 9:56 PM. Sun's coming up at 8:57 AM and setting at 8:33 PM, so we're gaining daylight fast.

Weather-wise, it's looking partly cloudy with highs around 40°F and light winds from the northeast. Not too shabby for late March in these parts.

Fish activity is really picking up as we get closer to spring. We're seeing some great rainbow trout action, especially in the Naknek and Kvichak rivers. Anglers have been hooking into some beauties in the 20-28 inch range using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char are also showing up in good numbers, with folks landing 3-7 pounders.

For lures, I'd recommend packing some Mepps spinners in size 2 or 3, particularly in silver or gold. Blue Fox Vibrax in size 2 have also been producing well. If you're fly fishing, don't forget your egg patterns and leech imitations in darker colors.

As for bait, salmon eggs are always a good bet this time of year. Some folks have had luck with small chunks of sardine or herring too.

Hot spots to check out include the mouth of the Naknek River and the area around Graveyard Point. The Kvichak River near Igiugig has also been producing some nice catches. If you're after grayling, try heading up to the Alagnak River - they've been hitting dry flies pretty consistently in the afternoons.

Looking ahead, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is forecasting another strong sockeye run to Bristol Bay this summer - they're predicting over 50 million fish. That should make for some great fishing come June and July.

Remember, it's still early in the season, so patience is key. But things are definitely heating up around here. Tight lines, and hope to see you out on the water!

Hello Anglers,

Here’s your Bristol Bay fishing report for Sunday, March 23, 2025. Let’s dive into what to expect out on the icy waters today.

Sunrise in the region is at 8:30 AM, and sunset hits at 9:10 PM. Tides are relatively normal for this time of year, with a low tide at 4:12 AM (0.3 feet), a high tide at 10:45 AM (10.5 feet), another low at 4:38 PM (3.5 feet), and a final high tide at 10:52 PM (8.8 feet). The weather is sitting at a cool high of 42°F with partly cloudy skies and light northeastern winds—ideal for layering up and setting off for a day outdoors.

Fishing action is heating up as spring slowly approaches. Rainbow trout are showing strong bite activity in the Naknek and Kvichak Rivers. For this species, 20 to 26-inch rainbows have been caught using bead setups and flesh flies. Arctic char in the range of three to six pounds are also being pulled up steadily. Ice anglers have been having decent success with good-sized catches of Arctic char and rainbow trout at Lake Aleknagik and Iliamna Lake by using small jigs tipped with salmon roe or waxworms.

For lures, spinners like Mepps sizes 2–3 (silver or gold) and Blue Fox Vibrax have been effective. Kwikfish in K14–K15 sizes are luring in some early-run king salmon in the lower stretches of the Nushagak River. Fly anglers should pack egg patterns and darker leech imitations. If you prefer bait, salmon eggs and small chunks of herring or sardine are reliable options this season.

The Naknek River mouth and Graveyard Point are must-visit hotspots today, especially for trout and char anglers. Meanwhile, Kvichak River near Igiugig holds promise for those willing to test their patience. If you’re venturing for Arctic grayling, the Alagnak River has been consistent with dry fly action in the afternoon sun.

Do note that fish like rainbow trout are catch-and-release only in many areas, so be sure to handle them carefully and check local regulations. It’s still early in the season, so expect the action to ramp up even more as the water warms.

Stay sharp on those hooksets and tight lines to you all! See you on the water!