Bristol Bay lakes still ice-covered as May ends, compressing early-season fishing window

Most large lakes in Bristol Bay are just beginning to break up as of May 28, with open water fishing opportunities remaining very limited, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The Wood River Lakes system remains ice-covered and access by boat is not yet possible. Fishing is reported as good at the outlets of salmon spawning streams where smolt are beginning to move downriver.

Salmon sport fishing will not be productive until mid-June on the Naknek River and late June on the Alagnak River, according to Lee Borden, area management biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Bristol Bay.

Fishing for resident species such as rainbow trout, Arctic char, Arctic grayling and northern pike is reported to be very good to great in locations where access is possible. Spinners, spoons and dry flies should work well until salmon begin to arrive in June.

Halibut fishing should be fair off the coast of Protection Point in Nushagak Bay. There are currently no emergency orders for the Bristol Bay management area.