Alaska's Largest Lake Is A Mythical Wilderness With World-Class Fishing And Rich Wildlife

Alaska is a paradise for sport fishing enthusiasts, boasting over 3 million natural lakes. Anglers flock to the 49th state each summer seeking a trophy-worthy catch surrounded by unspoiled wilderness. Lake Iliamna, Alaska's largest at 77 miles long, is a gem tucked into the state's isolated southwest and is home to not only the largest sockeye salmon population in the world, but is also shrouded in mystery. A legendary aquatic creature is said to inhabit the lake's depths.

The myth of the Iliamna Lake Monster dates back to the indigenous tribes who first occupied the land. The legend persisted into the 1940s, when pilots flying over the region said they'd seen something strange in the water below. Even today, according to The Alaska Frontier, some locals maintain they've seen the monster, nicknamed Illie or Gonakadet, lurking off the shores of the lake. Theories behind the sightings range from a giant white sturgeon to a rarely seen oarfish or even a stray beluga whale, as the lake connects to Bristol Bay on the Bering Sea 60 miles to the southwest, and marine animals could feasibly make their way into the lake. Whether you believe the legend or not, Lake Iliamna remains an enchanting draw for visitors seeking a one-of-a-kind vacation in a remote, pristine destination.

Fishing is the primary draw on Lake Iliamna. From June through late September each year, anglers seek out the rainbow trout, Alaska northern pike, and Dolly Varden trout that call the clear, cold water home. Sockeye salmon are so plentiful here that fishermen are allowed to catch and keep the red-hued fish, and many lodges will pack, freeze, and ship your bounty home.

If you need a day off from fishing, explore the scenic Alaska lake by kayak. The 1,600-square-mile lake and its multitude of small uninhabited islands are perfect to explore alone, with a friend, or with a guide. The lake is also home to a rare species of freshwater seals, one of only five known populations in the northern hemisphere.

If you're in the mood for an adventurous detour, you could go to the little-visited but beautiful Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, which is a hiker's dream. Experienced backpackers should have no problem here, and you can enjoy gems like the Tanalian Falls Trail, which leads hikers to a stunning glacial waterfall that cascades over a 30-foot ancient lava cliff. The park is only accessible by plane, though, so you shouldn't expect to drive here. Katmai National Park is another great destination that is again only accessible via boat or plane. But it contains a great population of brown bears, moose, and eagles, and every year before hibernation, people vote on the internet for the fattest bear in the park.

Lake Iliamna's remote location in the Alaskan wilderness means the only way in and out is by chartered bush plane from Anchorage to Iliamna town on the northwest shore of the lake or King Salmon. From there, boats and float planes ferry passengers to their accommodations. Most visitors book with the area's many fishing lodges to arrange transfers to and from Anchorage.

A great option is Outpost by Intricate Bay Lodge. The rustic two-story log cabin sleeps eight people, comes complete with experienced guides, a private chef, and a sauna for relaxing after long days on the water. A pricier but no less excellent option is Rainbow River Lodge, nestled on a beautiful shoreline surrounded by majestic pines. The all-inclusive accommodation offers six-day fishing adventures, and guests are transported via private float plane to the top fishing spots in the area. The lodge boasts luxury cedar-walled rooms and cabins with water views. If you don't believe us, there are some pretty unassailable reviews: "Everything about our stay ... was memorable, but the hospitality we received from [the staff] served to tie together all the week's adventures," wrote the late U.S. President Jimmy Carter in a glowing review quoted on the lodge's website.