This packing list provides a general framework. Adjust it based on your specific needs and the time of year you’re traveling. Remember to pack for both warm and cold weather, as well as wet conditions. Most importantly, have a fantastic time fishing at Rainbow King Lodge in Alaska!

#1 item is a waterproof bag, or backpack that you can put small items and extra clothing in when flying, rafting or in a jet boat. Look at these bags from Simms for ideas.

Clothing:

• Base Layers:
  • Merino wool or synthetic long underwear tops
  • Merino wool or synthetic long underwear bottoms
• Insulation:
  • Fleece jacket
  • Warm sweater or pullover
  • Down or synthetic insulated jacket
• Outerwear:
  • Waterproof and breathable rain jacket and pants
  • Windproof jacket (optional)
• Shirts:
  • Long-sleeve shirts
  • Short-sleeve shirts
• Pants:
  • Comfortable, quick-drying pants
  • Jeans
• Socks:
  • Wool or synthetic hiking socks (multiple pairs)
  • Liner socks (optional)
• Footwear:
  • Waterproof and breathable hiking boots
  • Comfortable camp shoes (e.g., slippers, sandals)
• Headwear:
  • Warm hat (wool or fleece)
  • Baseball cap or sun hat
• Gloves:
  • Waterproof and insulated gloves
  • Thin gloves or liners

Fishing Gear: Rainbow King provides all necessary fishing gear

• Waders: Chest waders or hip waders (check with the lodge for recommendations)
  Waders are the one item you will need to bring or purchase at the lodge

Other Packing List Essentials:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Small First-aid kit
• Personal medications
• Travel documents (passport, ID, etc.)
• Camera and extra batteries/memory cards
• Binoculars (optional)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Dry bags for electronics and valuables
• Toiletries

Optional Items:

• Camera tripod
• Guidebook for Alaska
• Books or magazines for downtime
• Travel journal
• Small snacks
• Beverages (check with the lodge about their policies)
  Rainbow King Lodge is located in Iliamna a dry native village and cannot serve alcohol, you are welcome to bring your own beverages, we keep the lounge stocked with mixers for any liquor you bring.

Tips:

• Layer your clothing: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key to staying comfortable.
• Pack light: You’ll likely be carrying your gear around, so pack only the essentials.
• Check with the lodge: Contact the lodge in advance to inquire about any specific gear recommendations or restrictions.
• Break in your boots: Make sure your hiking boots are broken in before your trip to avoid blisters.

The truth is you can carry all the flyfishing gear known to man, but just remember weight costs money when flying commercially and creates issues when flying in floatplanes to and from the lodge. If you’re going for a week, you don’t need seven of everything. If you’re at a lodge, they can wash some things periodically for you, and if you’re out on a wilderness trip, who cares? The most important thing you can do when preparing for a fishing trip to Alaska is have a conversation with your guide and contact up there. They can tell you exactly what you’ll need and what you won’t. If you pack smart, you’ll automatically pack light.