Our destination is the remote backcountry of Bristol Bay, Alaska—where the bears are fat, the rainbows are wild, and the guides row, cook, clean, and occasionally yank a size 8 hook out of their own finger.   Joining me is Zach Nemelka with Hooked on Alaska.  Zach grew up in Utah, but has been coming to Alaska since he was 5.   After a stint in college, he moved for Alaska to specialize in multi-day backcountry float trips for giant rainbow trout. 

What’s it like to float 60 miles of wilderness chasing trophy rainbows, dodge 1,000-pound Alaskan brown bears, and endure the wild weather makes Alaska, Alaska?  Stick around for a too close for comfort bear charge, a 60-fish day, and the tale of “Jules”—a 28-inch rainbow with a Dalai Lama stuck in his lip.  

With host Steve Haigh

Be the first to know about new episodes.  Become a subscriber 

Destination Angler on YouTube

Contact Zach:    https://hookedonalaska.net/    

Destination Angler Podcast:  

• Website
• YouTube
• Instagram & Facebook  @DestinationAnglerPodcast 

Please check out our Sponsors:

Got Fishing 

Crafting world-class fly-fishing adventures specially designed to your level of experience and budget.   

Facebook @GotFishingAdventures Instagram @GotFishing 

TroutRoutes 

Podcast listeners can try one month of TroutRoutes PRO for FREE by clicking the link in the episode description. Explore your water with TroutRoutes today.   Get 1 Month Free  

Facebook @troutinsights Instagram @TroutRoutes   

Adamsbuilt Fishing 

THE trusted source for quality fly fishing gear, built to last at an affordable price. Waders, Nets, Outerwear. 

Facebook & Instagram @Adamsbuilt

Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email [email protected]

Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Recorded June 17, 2025