Beach River

The feel

Beach River is on Montague Island, in the Gulf of Alaska at the entrance to Prince William Sound.

Fishing at the river mouth lets you catch salmon fresh from the ocean, before they have been in fresh water long. Pink salmon and coho are the river fish, with halibut in the salt water. The cabin is a 12x14-foot cedar log building with wooden bunks for up to six and wood and oil stoves.

What to expect

Water and access

A river on Montague Island. By float plane, 40 minutes from Cordova and 45 to 60 minutes from Seward. By boat, 65 miles from Cordova, 70 miles from Whittier and 100 miles from Seward.

Species and timing

Pink salmon in mid July, coho in mid August, and halibut.

License and rules

The intertidal beach is open to the public below mid-level high tide. The uplands are owned by Chugach Alaska Corporation and need separate permission.

Hazards

Wheeled planes land on the beach at low tide, so travel has to follow the tide schedule.

Season and access

Pinks from mid July and coho from mid August. Firewood at the cabin may be available but is not guaranteed.

Mingo says

Come in mid July for pinks or mid August for coho. Fish the river mouth, where the salmon are freshest.

Before you go

• Reserve the cabin at 1-877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov, and confirm booking details before you plan the trip.
• Do not count on firewood; the supply is not guaranteed.
• Ask Chugach Alaska Corporation for permission before leaving the beach onto the uplands.
• Match your flight to the tide schedule.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.