What Finger Lake Offers

Finger Lake is a small, shallow backcountry lake in the Alaska Range foothills, roughly 60 miles northwest of Anchorage. It holds Arctic grayling and lake trout (char), with grayling being the primary draw for fly fishers and light-tackle anglers. The lake sits at roughly 2,000 feet elevation in tundra terrain with no road access — you reach it by floatplane, which is the only practical way in and out. The season runs from late May through September, with peak fishing in June and July when water temperatures favor active feeding.

The lake's appeal lies in its isolation and the quality of grayling fishing rather than trophy size. Fish average 12 to 16 inches, with occasional fish to 18 inches. The shallow water (maximum depth around 30 feet) warms quickly in summer, making it productive early and late in the day. Because few anglers fish here compared to more accessible lakes, the grayling see less pressure, which can mean better takes on dry flies and small streamers.

Key Takeaways

  • Finger Lake requires floatplane access from Anchorage or a nearby hub, with charter costs typically running $400 to $600 per person round-trip depending on group size and fuel prices.
  • Arctic grayling are the main species, averaging 12 to 16 inches, and respond well to dry flies (size 12 to 16) and small nymphs in June and July.
  • The lake has no developed facilities, cabins, or services — you must bring all food, camping gear, and emergency supplies, or arrange a drop-off with your floatplane operator.
  • Alaska fishing licenses and a Tanana River drainage stamp are required; check current regulations with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before your trip.
  • Weather can change rapidly in the Alaska Range foothills, and the lake is exposed to wind; plan for layovers and pack rain gear rated for cold, wet conditions.

Getting There and Logistics

Floatplane is your only option. Anchorage-based charter operators including Rust's Flying Service, Talkeetna Air Taxi, and others run regular flights to remote lakes in the region. A typical charter costs $400 to $600 per person round-trip for a group of four, though solo or two-person charters cost more per head. Flight time from Anchorage is roughly 45 minutes to an hour. You can also stage through Talkeetna, a smaller hub about 100 miles north, which may offer slightly shorter flight times and sometimes lower costs depending on the operator's schedule.

Most charters operate on a drop-off and pick-up basis: you arrange a specific date to be flown in and a date to be picked up. Weather delays are common in the Alaska Range — if clouds close in or wind picks up, your pilot may not be able to land, and you may wait a day or more for conditions to clear. Build extra days into your schedule and confirm with your operator what happens if weather delays your pickup. Some operators offer cabin rentals or can recommend established camps in the region; others simply drop you at the lake with your gear.

What Species You'll Find and How to Fish Them

Arctic grayling dominate Finger Lake. They are aggressive feeders on the surface, especially in early morning and evening, and will take dry flies readily. Effective patterns include Adams, Stimulators, and small Humpies in sizes 12 to 16. Subsurface, small nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear) and tiny streamers (Woolly Buggers in olive or black, size 10 to 14) work throughout the day. Grayling prefer cooler water, so mid-day fishing can be slow in July and August; focus on early and late hours or deeper water near drop-offs.

Lake trout (char) are present but less abundant and less predictable than grayling. They prefer deeper, colder water and are more likely to take small streamers or spoons. If you want to target char, fish deeper structure — drop-offs, submerged ridges — and be prepared for slower action. Most anglers focus on grayling and treat char as a bonus. Spin gear works fine for both species; a 5- to 6-weight fly rod is ideal for grayling, and a heavier rod (7 to 8-weight) gives you more versatility if you want to cast larger streamers or fish in wind.

Seasons and Water Conditions

The lake is ice-free from late May through September. June and July are prime months: water temperatures are rising, grayling are actively feeding, and daylight is nearly continuous (24-hour daylight by late June). August and September see cooler nights and shorter days, which can slow surface feeding, though fishing remains decent. Water clarity is typically good to excellent, which means grayling can be selective on calm days — use lighter tippets and smaller flies if fish are refusing.

Wind is a constant factor. The lake sits in open tundra with no tree cover, and afternoon winds are common. Morning sessions are often calmer and more productive. Rain and cold snaps can occur any month; pack layers and waterproof gear even in July. The Alaska Range can generate sudden weather, so monitor forecasts and be flexible with your fishing schedule.

Regulations and Licenses

You need a valid Alaska fishing license and a Tanana River drainage stamp (Finger Lake drains into the Tanana system). Licenses are available online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website or at sporting goods stores in Anchorage before you depart. As of the most recent regulations, grayling have a daily limit of 5 fish (check current rules, as limits can change), and lake trout limits vary. Catch-and-release is popular on remote lakes to preserve the fishery; many anglers practice it voluntarily even where harvest is allowed.

Regulations can shift year to year, so visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website or call their Anchorage office before booking your trip. Your floatplane operator can also confirm current rules and any seasonal closures.

What to Bring and Camp Setup

Finger Lake has no cabins, lodges, or developed campsites. You are camping in the backcountry, so bring a four-season tent (wind and cold are real concerns), a sleeping bag rated for 20°F or lower, and a sleeping pad. Pack a camp stove and fuel (white gas or canister fuel — check what your floatplane operator allows), cookware, and all food for your stay. Water is available from the lake; most anglers filter or boil it. Bring a water filter or purification tablets.

Fishing gear should include a rod, reel, and backing appropriate to your target species, fly or spin tackle, a net, waders and boots, and rain gear. Bring extra socks and a dry change of clothes. Sunscreen, insect repellent (mosquitoes can be heavy in June and July), and a first-aid kit are essential. A satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended for safety in case of injury or emergency — cell service does not exist at the lake.

Cost Breakdown and Planning Timeline

Floatplane charter is the largest expense: $400 to $600 per person round-trip. A fishing license and Tanana River stamp together cost roughly $50 to $70. Food and fuel for a week run $200 to $400 depending on your diet and stove efficiency. Gear rental (if you don't own waders, a rod, or a tent) can add $100 to $300. Total cost for one person on a week-long trip typically ranges from $750 to $1,400, assuming you share a charter with others and own basic gear.

Book your floatplane charter at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially for June and July. Confirm your dates with the operator, discuss weather contingencies, and clarify what gear they allow on the plane (weight limits apply). Purchase your fishing license online before departure. Plan your food and fuel carefully — you cannot resupply once you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Finger Lake in May or September?

Yes, but with caveats. Late May can have lingering ice or very cold water, and floatplane operators may not fly until the lake is fully clear. September fishing is solid, but days shorten rapidly and weather becomes less predictable. June and July are the safest and most productive months.

What if my floatplane gets weathered in and I can't get picked up on schedule?

Weather delays are common in the Alaska Range. Confirm with your operator beforehand what happens if you are delayed — most will fly you out as soon as conditions allow, but you may wait several days. Build extra days into your schedule and have a flexible return date if possible. Bring extra food in case of a layover.

Do I need a guide to fish Finger Lake?

No, but a guide can improve your success, especially if you are new to grayling or backcountry fishing. Some floatplane operators can arrange guides; others do not. Fishing on your own is possible if you are comfortable with self-sufficiency and basic navigation. The lake is small enough that you can explore it in a day or two.

What is the best time of day to fish for grayling?

Early morning (first light through mid-morning) and evening (late afternoon through dusk) are most productive. Grayling feed actively on the surface during these periods. Mid-day fishing can be slow, especially in July and August when water warms. Overcast days often produce better fishing than bright, calm days.

Can I bring a boat or raft to fish the lake?

A small inflatable raft or float tube can be useful for reaching deeper water or exploring the lake, but it is not necessary. Many anglers fish from shore and do well. If you bring a raft, pack it carefully to fit within floatplane weight limits and confirm with your operator that it is allowed.