Extra days in Fairbanks

Question

Hello, I am planning this Rail/Boat tour with Vacations By Rail. https://www.vacationsbyrail.com/tours/alaska-the-greatland/#upgrades

Wanting to know if it's worth it to add a few extra days on to the beginning or end of this 9 day trip? The trip incluced 2 nights in Fairbanks already.

Is Fairbanks a good place for a fishing charter?

Thanks!

Answer

Fairbanks is definitely worth considering for extra days at the beginning or end of your Alaska rail/boat tour, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities and want a more relaxed pace before embarking on the main trip. Two nights in Fairbanks is enough to see the basics, but adding a couple of extra days gives you time to explore more of the surrounding wilderness and potentially enjoy activities that aren’t included in the tour.

Fishing in Fairbanks:

Fairbanks itself is not a major destination for deep-sea or ocean fishing, but it does offer freshwater fishing experiences, especially in rivers and lakes nearby. You can target species like northern pike, Arctic grayling, and rainbow trout. The Chena and Tanana Rivers, as well as nearby lakes, are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Guided Fishing Charters: There are companies offering full- or half-day guided fishing trips near Fairbanks. These guides provide boats, gear, and knowledge of local fishing spots, which is especially useful if you’re unfamiliar with Alaskan rivers.
DIY Fishing: If you’re experienced, you could fish on your own in nearby rivers and lakes. You’ll need an Alaska fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local tackle shops.
Timing: Spring and early summer can be good for grayling and pike. If you visit later in the summer, salmon fishing becomes more relevant in southern Alaska rather than Fairbanks itself.

Other Activities in Fairbanks:

Visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center to learn about Alaska’s history and culture.
Take a riverboat tour on the Chena or Tanana Rivers.
Explore Chena Hot Springs, which is about 60 miles from Fairbanks—a relaxing option after your travel.
Enjoy a short hiking trip or drive along the scenic Steese Highway for views of northern wilderness.

Adding extra days can also give you flexibility in case of flight delays or weather, and it can make the transition into the rest of the Alaskan tour smoother. If fishing is a priority, booking a guided freshwater charter from Fairbanks is feasible, though for salmon or deeper ocean fishing, you would need to head toward the Kenai Peninsula or Seward.

Extra days in Fairbanks

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