Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp Kenai River Alaska Logo

The Ultimate Alaskan Fishing Adventure. Now Booking for 2024.

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Reflecting on an Epic and
Unforgettable Season

Last year marked another successful Big Sky season! With pride, Joe Connors, owner of Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp, received a second lifetime achievement award from the Kenai River Guides Association for his enduring commitment to conservation. We draw inspiration from his dedication.

Fishing began in mid-May with exceptional saltwater king salmon and halibut catches. In June, the Kenai River offered solid trout fishing and the first waves of prized sockeye. July brought excitement as we eagerly awaited the peak salmon runs, which did not disappoint. An unexpected influx of near-record-breaking sockeye hit the Kenai in the later weeks of July, creating an epic fishing experience. Large and aggressive silver salmon followed in August, providing phenmenal action. Rainbows were consistent all summer.

We added a second vessel to our saltwater fleet this year. The 28' "Reel Quick," captained by seasoned guide Adam Reed, joined the "Shooter Again" to fully capitalize on the ocean opportunities. Both yeilded plenty of keeper and oversized halibut in Homer's waters from May to June. The "Reel Quick" moved to Seward in July and August, offering unforgettable trips for limits of salmon and rockfish.

Our enduring relationships with guests, with nearly half being returning customers, attest to our commitment to excellence. Reconnecting with loyal clients and building new relationships with first-time visitors was a highlight of the season. Hosting honeymooners, families, and corporate retreats was a privilege, and we cherished each unique adventure.

As we prepare for the 2024 season, the future looks promising. Excitement is building for another remarkable year. Reserve your spot today and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure with Big Sky!

Salmon Hailbut Catch

Combo, DIY & Custom

Fishing

Big SKy Family

Why Big Sky Knows

Best

Big Sky Lodge Kenai RIver

Authentic Alaskan

Lodging

Our Guides Are Kenai River Fishing Experts

Professional guides with knowledge, experience and integrity are our personal guarantee at Big Sky Charter. They’re either trusted family, highly seasoned enthusiasts, or local legends. In the boats or from shore at camp, their sole objective is your success. Our staff and guides will work with your group, explain your fishing options based on current fishing conditions and game regulations to develop the best plan for you. You decide what you and your group wants to do and they’ll do the rest: chase trophies, limit-out, multi-species, or an exploratory fishin’ mission. It’s your call! They’re all excellent educators as well. You’ll learn tricks and techniques you can utilize on your home waters.

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Big Catches. Big Memories. Big Sky Charters.

Authentic Alaskan Accommodations

Big Sky offers anglers a main lodge plus eight, fully furnished chalets and cabins on the banks of the Kenai River. You can fish, and catch, right off the dock. All facilities offer comfortable beds, fully equipped kitchens, living areas, indoor showers and bathrooms*, outdoor BBQ, deck chairs and more. Couples, buddies, families, small and large groups are all welcome. Our entire facility can comfortably sleep nearly 50 people. You choose the accommodations that work best for you and your budget. Bank angling is encouraged, all equipment is provided!

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Your Alaska Adventure Awaits

At Big Sky, you’ll be centrally located near everything the Kenai Peninsula has to offer. The lodge is in Sterling, AK at river mile 36. The fishermen’s town of Soldotna is 12 miles away. Homer, AK is 90 miles southwest, Seward, AK is 80 miles Southeast and Anchorage is less than a 3 hour drive North. A short distance from the lodge in every direction are more rivers, mountains, hiking trails, wilderness areas, coastal ecosystems and expansive wildlife preserves that will simply leave you in awe.

What Our Customers Have To Say

It has been with great pleasure that I have had the opportunity to experience this great outdoor fishing adventures with Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp.  They are knowledgeable and dedicated guides with a high level of energy that is matched with the focus on catching fish. I have had the opportunity of sending 50-60 employees and clients a year, for teambuilding experiences, for the past 5-6 years. Big Sky is committed to providing each and every guest with personalized attention and instructions for any experience level. Their love for fishing, zest for the game, professionalism, and vigorous pursuit of excellence, places them at the pinnacle of outfitters.  I highly recommend Big Sky and will continue to do so in the future.

Loren C.

When we looked at coming up to Alaska to experience the Last Frontier and Kenai Peninsula, Big Sky Charter & Fishcamp stood out to us.  Joe was the only person that personally called and we had such a great conversation.  We have made a lifetime of experiences and cannot thank Ella and her team enough.  The guides made each day so special and fun.  To end each day overlooking the Kenai River and meeting the other guests at camp was truly special and it is evident that family and friendships are at the top of Big Sky's list.  We went in looking to experience Alaska and came out with a group of people we now call friends!

Aaron P.

Billings, MT

If you want a great fishing experience in the serenity and beauty of Alaska, I highly recommend Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp. We have been taking corporate groups to the Big Sky for the past 5 years and have thoroughly enjoyed each adventure.  Arrangements are always excellent and the stewardship of the entire fishing trip and subsequent activities, were outstanding.  We fished in different locations each day.  What a great variety, and each so special in their own way. Big Sky combines their gift for coaching, with all-around great personalities, which leads to a high-quality experience.  I would recommend them for the excellent fishing guide with great knowledge and customer service. You are guaranteed to have a fun day on and off the water.

 

Jeff E.

I have fished in Alaska for over 20 years.  Joe Brennan at Big Sky is one of the best guides I have ever had. He has an excellent boat and puts you on fish. Whether you are looking for a great day on the water or fish in your 
cooler, Joe is your man. The Big Sky Fishcamp is on the amazing Kenai river, with salmon at your front door. If you're searching for a great Alaska adventure, Joe B. is your man.

Johnny C - Portland, OR

This Alaskan fish camp experience begins when you drive into camp. You are welcomed by everyone on site, willing to help you carry and get settled. Your lodging gives you privacy and then the campfire gives you people from all over the country. Ella ensures your stay and fishing are the best, and anything you need is provided. Your fish are handled and processed as you want. And town is about 12 minutes away for any jaunt to a ballgame or restaurants. Yes, even we Alaskans love it, as we wait for next year.

Nancy T

We love Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp so much that we've begun a yearly tradition of going to Alaska and they are our primary destination. We always bring home loads of salmon and halibut, thanks to their excellent guide services. It's a huge bonus that they store and pack fish for a very reasonable price right on site. We've spent many an hour down at their dock and always have luck catching fish during the salmon run. Big Sky is a gem on the Kenai river, both because of the location and the wonderful people. We look forward to our trip all year long.

Jen Bageant

Big Sky is in a great location, right on the Kenai. Ella and her crew are awesome about scheduling and communication. The property is large with everything you need such as rods, waders, boots, rain gear, etc. some of the cabins are more rustic than others but have everything you need and the beds are comfortable. It was a great vacation. 

Robyn and Mark Kingery

Corey and Ryan were the best fishing guides we could've asked for. The kids had a blast we caught over 35 salmon over a two day and Ella and her crew processed it all !!!

Vishy B.

Big Sky Charter & Fish Camp's owner Joe is a wonderful man who has years of experience and knowledge of the Kenai river and it's layout.  His lodge fronts the riverside and you can fish from shore.  

If you're looking to experience true river fishing, Joe has fishing guides that will take you out for a full or half day.  Each guide is certified and are avid fishermen, both knowledgeable and personable.

After you catch your fish...(this is the part that I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE)... Joe and his team will clean the fish for you!! *yayy!!*  You can take the parts that you want to make sashimi out of or cook for meals, the rest they will vacuum pack, freeze, and package for you to take home.  

This is definitely on my "to-do" list for next salmon season!!!  If you go, please send them my Aloha!!!

Sheryl M. Miami, FL.

"This past summer, my sister and I were fortunate enough to visit Alaska for the
first time. Thank you for sharing your little slice of heaven on the Kenai River with us. We enjoyed our time at Big Sky tremendously. You offer a world class Alasksan fishing experience. Your staff and guides were so helpful, especially with fishing since we were both beginners. We are already planning and looking forward to coming back to Big Sky for another unforgettable experience… counting down the days."

Julia & Ginny

"We wanted to thank you for making our Alaska fishing trip a great one. Cory did a great job for us on the river putting us on silvers, setting up lines, processing our catch and offering advice. Lily was also there quietly in the background keeping us on schedule and helping with processing."

Gordon B.

“We had the best time ever at Big Sky Charter and Fishcamp. We are definitely coming back many times.”

John S.

“We loved all the games and friendly competition while on the boats. Your guides were awesome.”

Mary G.

“The fishing is tremendous with the knowledgeable friendly team of guides, but that is just the start. The guides, camp personnel, and owners are helpful and very generous with their time, knowledge and energy. This is our 4th consecutive year and there will be more.”

Anni & Larry F.

“Big Sky and Joe Connor know the Kenai and salmon fishing ..Joe and his guides are the best. If you are looking for accommodations and salmon guides...you will not be disappointed.”

Phil E.

“The staff was as good as it gets. The guides also were as good as it gets. The rooms were clean and nice.”

Philip D.

“Big Sky booked excellent fishing excursions usIng experienced guides - we had great success catching fish. The young staff at the camp did a great job processing the fish. We caught great trout off the Big Sky dock in the Kenai River.”

John Y.

“We keep coming back every year because Joe and his family treat us like family and the guides are the best in the business!”

Don C.

These folks are fantastic, the captains are great and fun to be around. These dudes rock!!! They know how to get you on the fish and even cleaned, filet, packaged and froze my fish. Wonderful day on the river and a lot of fun…”

Bret W.

“Our company uses the service of Big Sky to host an annual fishing event for customers. Big Sky does a great job catering and finding quality guide for 120 fisherman. Always look forward to attending and going to Big Sky each year!”

Conley

“The folks at Big Sky truly make you feel like family hanging out at YOUR lodge on the river. Lots of repeat customers while we were there (which says a lot), including one group who were on their 8th trip and taking home nearly 1000 lbs of fish. The guides were professional and on top of their game with everyone catching their limit daily. The staff handled everything for you, including cleaning and packaging your catch for shipment home, you just fish, catch and relax!!!!!!!”

Don S.

“A fisherman’s heaven. I went there for the first time in 2003 and have been back yearly since. This camp is clean and well organized and extremely affordable in Alaskan standards. Fishing from shore is available and very good. The people are honest and friendly. Ryan, Adam and Angelo are the finest guides on the river. The location is near enough to Soldatna to get groceries and shop but also far enough away from the crowds to get away. You get the best of both worlds. You come as a guest and leave as a friend.”

Dillon

“This is my favorite place to stay while fishing in Alaska! Joe makes sure you have a great time and all his guides do their very best to put you on the fish and teach you how to land your trophy salmon. I highly recommend you try them out.”

Trip Advisor Guest

“We recently went on a salmon fishing trip to this lodge and loved our experience!! The staff was friendly, the guides were top notch and the vacation was very affordable. I would recommend them anytime!”

Jaret