Eklutna Lake (Chugach State Park)

The feel

Eklutna is a glacial Chugach lake best known for its lakeside bike-and-camp trail, and it also holds Dolly Varden and kokanee. Crowds are low. The fish are a wild resident fishery, not stocked, and most run 8 to 14 inches for Dolly Varden and 8 to 12 inches for kokanee.

You reach the water by driving Eklutna Lake Road, about 10 paved miles off the Old Glenn, to the Chugach State Park campground and trailhead at the northwest end. Boats go in by hand or carry only.

What to expect

Water and access

Glacial lake reached by about 10 paved miles of Eklutna Lake Road off the Old Glenn, ending at the Chugach State Park campground and trailhead at the northwest end. Hand or carry launch only.

Species and timing

Dolly Varden, 8 to 14 inches, in June, July and August. Kokanee, 8 to 12 inches, in July and August.

Methods and gear

Spin, bait, fly or fish from the bank.

License and rules

Gas motors are prohibited; electric and paddle only. This is the lake up Eklutna Lake Road, not the Eklutna Tailrace. Verify current rules with the Sport Fish Information Center at (907) 267-2218.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are low. The season runs June to September.

Parking

$5/day.

Season and access

June to September, managed by Alaska State Parks (Chugach State Park).

Mingo says

Fish Dolly Varden from June and kokanee from July. Both are in the water through August, so July and August cover the two species.

Before you go

• Bring $5 for the day's parking.
• Leave the gas motor at home; only electric and paddle craft are allowed.
• Call (907) 267-2218 to verify current rules before you fish.

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