Arctic Mouse Chase: Nome Grayling Expedition

Schedule and Accommodations

June 29th - July 3rd, 2025

Day 1: Arrival in Nome with transport to Council and the Niukluk River

The journey begins with a scenic drive from the Nome airport to Council, followed by a short boat ride to the fish camp lodge. Nestled in the Alaskan wilderness, the lodge offers comfortable accommodations with rustic charm. Each angler settles into their cozy cabin with the sound of the river in the background.  The lodge has a communal dining area where meals are served with local ingredients, offering the perfect setting to relax and share stories over a hearty dinner.

Day 2 -4: Fishing Adventures on the Niukluk

With only five anglers in the group, this trip offers a personalized experience.  Fishing adventures begin with an orientation by the lodge owner and guide, highlighting the thrill of fishing for trophy grayling using dry flies and mouse patterns. We explain how these methods mimic the natural prey of grayling, especially in these clear waters where sight fishing is key.

Each morning starts with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the river. The Niukluk River is a stunning sight, with its crystal-clear waters flowing through the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and arctic tundra. The spring-fed river maintains a consistent temperature, ideal for grayling, making it a haven for anglers.

Using dry flies, the group spreads out along the riverbank, casting into the eddies and riffles where grayling are known to rise. The sight of these trophy-sized fish breaking the surface to take a fly is a thrilling experience. The boat and guide are close by, offering tips on casting techniques and reading the water, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their time on the river.

As the day progresses, the anglers switch to mouse patterns, which create an exciting topwater action. Grayling, known for their aggressive feeding habits, strike with vigor, creating splashes that ripple across the clear water. Each successful catch is a moment of celebration, with anglers admiring the grayling’s beautiful, iridescent scales and sail-like dorsal fin before releasing them back into the river.

Day 5: Departure

The last morning provides one final opportunity to cast a line and perhaps catch the trip’s biggest grayling.  After a successful session on the river, the group returns to the van for the drive back to Nome. 

This trip is more than just a fishing experience; it’s a chance to connect with nature, learn from skilled guides, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow anglers, all set against the backdrop of one of Alaska’s most beautiful rivers.

Package Rates

$3,950 / Person

Length of stay: 4 nights lodging / 4 days guided fishing (1 half day/3 Full days)

Includes: 

• Lodging

• Food and beverages

• Guide

• Use of fly fishing gear, equipment, and flies

Does not include: 

• Waders and wading boots

• Alcohol

• Meals prior to arriving at the lodge

• Gratuities for Lodge Staff/River Guides/Hosts

• Alaska fishing license

Cancellation / refund policy: 50% of trip cost due at time of booking, last 50% of trip cost due 60 days prior to the trip date. Should you cancel your trip, a refund will be made only if your space can be filled, minus a 10% service charge. We make no refunds nor assume any additional expenses if weather or any reason beyond our control renders you unable to complete a trip or any other part of an itinerary. We reserve the right to cancel a trip because of low enrollment or other circumstances and will refund all funds paid to us in such a case.

Location: Shared cabins on the Niukluk River 75 miles northeast of Nome.

Lodging: Alaskan NW Adventures

Host: Jolynne Howard

Food and Beverages: Home cooked meals; "Alaskan Style" Family Dining.

Technology: WiFi and no cellular

Target fish: Trophy Arctic Grayling, Pike, Dolly Varden