When it comes to tying large-profile intruder-style flies for steelhead and salmon, one of the most difficult part of the whole process is finding materials of consistent quality. Ostrich herl in particular, a material used in many steelhead and salmon flies, varies quite a bit in terms of quality and can be frustrating to the…
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Alaska West
Late Season Dollies
Today we present you with a cool photo of a dolly varden, courtesy of Alaska West guide, Zac Cassill. They might not get the same press as some of our other species, but if fun is your prerogative, we think fast past action for late-season, clowned-up dollies is hard to beat. Drop us a line to come see for…
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Stu’s Tube Leech – Tying Instructions
Stuart Foxall is back today with another great step by step! So, grab a cup of coffee and kick off your weekend right, by filling up those fly boxes! Stu’s Tube Leech – Tying Instructions Last week we dressed a simple but super effective bunny leech pattern, the Miles Davis Leech. Today we are going to be…
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Oh, Hey There
We like catching fish as much as the next guy, but sometimes fishing is more about spending time in good company.. That doesn’t mean they have to be people though. More on Wildlife at Our Lodges Bear Highway Andros Island Iguana Fish Finders – Arctic Terns
Swinging for Trout – The Tumble Rig
We really enjoy swinging flies for trout on small spey or switch rods. Here at Alaska West, that usually means swinging large sculpin or flesh flies on or near the bottom. In other words, getting your fly down is often the name of the game. Earlier this year, we were fortunate to spend a week…
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Rigging Tip: Bunny Tails and Stinger Hooks
We fish a lot of articulated ‘leech’ style flies at our lodges. Why? Because they work really well! In fact, we just ran a step by step fly tying post on one here. However, one down side to most stinger style leech patterns is that once the stinger hook becomes dull or straightened, the hook…
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Bright is Beautiful
Today we present you with nothing more than what we think is a super cool perspective of a silver salmon caught during the last week of our season at Alaska West. Contrary to popular belief, our run of silvers actually extends well past when we finish up our season. Plus, we’re located only six miles…
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The Miles Davis Leech – Tying Instructions
Our buddy Stuart Foxall is back again with yet another great step by step fly tying post. Today’s pattern? The Miles Davis Leech, a super effective fly for steelhead, salmon, or even big trout. Thanks Stu! The Miles Davis Leech – Tying Instructions The Miles Davis black leech pattern is an amazingly simple but effective…
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Thanks from Alaska West
Today we wrap up another unforgettable season here at Alaska West and just wanted to say thanks to all of you who joined us this year. We really love what we do, and you’re a huge part of what makes our job so enjoyable. So, from all of us here at Alaska West, thanks for joining us this summer….
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Congratulations Robert!
With our season winding down, we wanted to give a big shout out to our long time chef at Alaska West, Robert Schultess. This year marks Robert’s 20th year with Alaska West, and we think that’s one heck of an accomplishment. Congratulations Robert, we’re really lucky to have you as part of the team. More From…
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