Does anyone have information regarding taking the train up river from Talkeetna Alaska to acess fishing areas not available fom the road. My brother and I are contemplating a trip next year around the 4th of July. We heard there is an area near a bridge upstream fom Talkeetna that offers some great spots for big chinooks during that time. Apparently you can get on the train with your gear and they will let you off where you like. Do you fly to Anchorage and rent a car or can you get the train from Anchorage? Whats the fishing like? Can you take a raft and float the river? Whats the name of the river? I have only heard sketchy details of this trip and would appriciate any info that you could pass my way. Thanks - B.D Brad

Bobber Down Brad:

Well with a great name like that I have to reply I don't have much, but this is what I know.

Fished the Talkeetna a couple of summers ago at the confluence of Clear Cr. and the Talkeetna. Access was via jetsled from the highway below (4-5 miles?) that crossed the lower Talkeetna. The fishing was great (2nd week of July) all fish were huge red crawdads 20 - 45 lbs. No bait allowed! Once you kill a King your done for the day. I never kept any so that I could c&r all day.

Those hawgs hit like small smolts so don't be deceived! Set the hook at the slightest tap and don't hesitate or it's to late. Didn't know about the train.

Good luck!

Bobber Down

"Keep your hooks sharp!"

Thanks B.D I appriciate the reply.

Clear Creek is boat accessible, not train accessible.

Having caught two of my biggest chinook ever (50lbs each!) practically in the town of Telkeetna, I'm also trying to learn more about other fishing in the area, such as some of the rivers just north of Talkeetna. July 4 sounds about right. I think the best sources of info may be Alaska RR and some of the guides based in Talkeetna.

BTW this is really silty water. I've found it's best during cold weather when the water level is lower than avarage.

In the mean time, I'm continuing my hunt as are you.