Mendeltna Creek

The feel

Mendeltna Creek is a roadside grayling stream where the Glenn Highway crosses it near Mendeltna, west of Glennallen. It turns on in the fall, while the salmon rivers wind down. Arctic grayling run 8 to 14 inches, and Dolly Varden share the water.

You fish from the bank, walking in from the highway bridge, with a fly rod or spinning gear. Crowds are low, and the fishing peaks in late September as fish stage in the Tazlina drainage.

What to expect

Water and access

Stream crossing the Glenn Highway near Mendeltna, west of Glennallen. Walk-in bank access from the highway bridge.

Species and timing

Arctic grayling and Dolly Varden. Grayling run 8 to 14 inches, best in late September. July to September.

Methods and gear

Fly, spin or bank fishing.

License and rules

Upper Copper / Upper Susitna Area. This is a wild grayling stream, so verify current rules.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are low. Late September is best.

Season and access

July to September.

Mingo says

Aim for late September, when the grayling are at their best. Go after the salmon rivers have wound down, since this creek is the fall option.

Before you go

• Check current rules for the Upper Copper / Upper Susitna Area before you fish.
• Pack a fly rod or spinning gear for bank fishing from the bridge.
• Call the Sport Fish Information Center in Anchorage at (907) 267-2218 for more on the region.

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