Drive Alaska Itinerary #4, Fishing Fantasies

Anchorage, South Kenai Peninsula, Soldotna, Homer

Anchorage to Soldotna is 148 miles, though depending on summer traffic it could take three to four hours. Head south on Seward Highway. As you enter the Kenai Peninsula and approach the Seward junction, take the Sterling Highway east. The Kenai Peninsula, nicknamed “Alaska’s playground”, is a wilderness area with Prince William Sound on one side and Chugach Mountains on the other. Encompassing more land than the state of Massachusetts and New Jersey combined, this area is home to every outdoor adventure you could think of including, horseback riding, rafting, fishing, dog sledding, bird viewing and canoeing. Cooper Landing will be your first stop along the Sterling Highway. Take a break at Wildman’s and fill your belly with home cooked tasting breakfast and lunch or even one of their famous ice cream cones. Just before you enter, Soldotna is the turnoff for Talon Air. They offer a wide range of unique touring opportunities, including bear viewing, fly-in fishing, and big game hunting.

Soldotna is located on the Kenai river and is the most popular destination for sport fishing. The glacier blue waters have abundant salmon runs as well as trophy size rainbow trout. During the summer, the area is a cornucopia of fireweed, wild geraniums, forget-me-not, blueberries, currants and watermelon berries. Soldotna Inn is recommended for lodging and great dining.

Located 75 miles from Soldotna, the city of Homer is literally at the end-of-road. Beauty, wilderness and museums, galleries and sea-side accommodations make Homer a wonderful place to visit for a day or a week. There are daily flights from Homer to Katmai National Park, which has legendary bear viewing. Sasquatch Alaska Adventure, Alaska Bear Adventures, Smokey Bay Air and Scenic Bear Viewing have trips for every size and budget. Bob Trophy Charters has 3/4 day, full day as well as overnight fishing trips. Take advantage of their experience as you fill your freezer from the halibut capital of the world.

Hotel reservations should be made in advance as rooms fill quickly. I recommend Beluga Lake Lodge and if you are traveling by RV; I recommend Heritage RV Park, right at a fishing hole on the Homer Spit.

From Homer, head north to Anchorage.