Lake Elfendahl Fishing Guide, Hoonah-Angoon Census Area, Alaska

• Overview

  Lake Elfendahl is a Hoonah-Angoon Census Area water, in Alaska. Country round the bank runs to open valley. About 890 acres, so local knowledge or a boat saves a lot of walking. The edge covers about 7.0 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. It is among the larger waters listed here for Hoonah-Angoon Census Area. Sitka lies 66 miles from the water. The nearest city of size is Anchorage, 529 miles away. No county line comes close, which keeps the paperwork simple.

• Where to Fish on Lake Elfendahl

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Hoonah-Angoon Census Area records list pink salmon, Chum salmon, Coho salmon, Dolly Varden and Chinook salmon among the fish reported. Protected fish appear in the records for this area, so treat the list as information, not an invitation. The shape of Lake Elfendahl rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 31°F to 54°F. Seasons here are moderate, and the fishing runs most of the year. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. At Lake Elfendahl the season follows that pattern closely. A cold snap sets things back for several days.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. The nearest alternative is Lake Morris, 1.2 miles out. The position on Lake Elfendahl is worth confirming on the day.