Northwoods Lodge - Skwentna, AK

Meg Holderman

We spent 3 weeks in Alaska traveling by air, boats and trains from the backcountry of Denali National Park to Homer Alaska. We stayed at many amazing places but this was our favorite spot (although seeing the bears at Brooks Falls and watching hump back whales bubble net feeding in Seward were close 2nds but also had to share these experiences with other tourists). We had many rivers and lakes to ourselves to fish and seldom saw any other fishing parties. Although King Salmon were off limits, there was an abundance of other fish. As a beginner fly fisherwoman I was able to spot the fish in the clear melt water streams and land several nice trout and graylings. My more experienced husband was "slaying it". We enjoyed seeing the salmon jumping and the abundance of wildlife above and below the water line.

Our guide, Vance, was patient and taught me several casting techniques and he kept us on the fish. Eric and Shan were attentive and the food was outstanding. The lake view from our cabin was beautiful and peaceful.

This isn't a 5 star hotel but it is a luxury lodge: clean, hot water, lots of space. Photos accurately show the accommodations.

marlene white

We love Northwood Lodge. it is our home away from home. This year is our third year returning and often we go 2 times a yin June and August. The fishing is superb and our guide Skyler is one of the best that we have ever had. He is a total expert in finding fish. He takes extremely good care of us in every regard and has a very laid-back positive personality.
The accommodations

Miles Crowe

What a tremendous experience. Went on a special trip with my son and brother to spread my dad’s ashes around Alaska. Eric, Sham, and our guide Vance made it a wonderful experience. Everything about it exceeded my expectations! We caught tons of fish too!

Radek Z

We had the absolute BEST time at Northwoods Lodge! Everyone that works at the lodge makes you feel like you are family! Our fishing guide, Vance, was very professional and was very patient when teaching me. Shan made wonderful home cooked meals and had everything ready for us when we arrived back from our fishing for the day. If you are looking for a great place to go fishing in AK, then this is the place! Thank you all for everything and we hope to be back soon!

Mikensie Oakeson

Eric and Shan have a beautiful location and cabins are very comfortable and accommodating. They really make it feel like home and as if you are with family. Their expertise with fishing is top notch and our guide Vance was amazing to work with.

Denise S

Beautiful, friendly and fun! We just enjoy fishing (not crazy about it)and this was PERFECT for our first time to fly in. Booking was easy and Shan provides detailed, helpful info. Rust flying service is great - we had 4 hours before our flight - so they dropped us off and picked us up downtown with great food recommendations. The flight to Northwoods was spectacular! We were welcomed and enjoyed a delicious home cooked rib meal. Though the best food was owner Eric’s smoked salmon sent in our snack bag with the guide for fishing. Jason was an awesome guide! Stream fishing and caught trout, river fishing for salmon and learned to “floss.” Tried fly fishing too! We also went kayaking on the lake. Very nice room and so very quiet! Each group has their own guide who caters to what you want to do or not do. They have vehicles and other boats strategically placed, so not a lot of hiking unless you want to. This is one of the original fly in lodges - they are the experts! Their focus on their guests, delicious food, and knowledgeable guides are what make a great experience. And, plenary to do if you just want to relax and not fish. Would recommend to everyone!

A F

Shan and Eric have built a paradise in the wilderness. They employ expert guides who know all the best spots to limit out every day on Salmon, Rainbow Trout and much more. Amazing freshly prepared meals both in the lodge and kept in coolers while you fish. Shan cooks it all from scratch and includes fresh ingredients from her garden - it’s gourmet quality. Most of all, Shan and Eric are the most wonderful hosts you could imagine. They are professionals and at the same time make you feel comfortable and at home. They can accommodate anglers of all ages, with a guide that will stay with your group the entire stay. We had Mike and he was an expert on the water conditions and always knew where to be on the rivers. Their boats can accommodate up to 4 plus a guide - many other local lodges with 5 stars can only fit 2 guests per boat. Went with a family of four, including our 15 and 10 year old and they had the time of their lives. Accommodations have everything you need and the main lodge has many luxuries - game room, bar, large sofas, and more. Can’t wait to go back - book early as there are a lot of repeat customers and there’s a good reason for that!

karen b

Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Northwoods Lodge and would definitely recommend it to others. Cabin accommodations were comfortable and very clean, and meals were delicious. Shan is a wonderful hostess and chef!|Guides were very knowledgeable and worked hard to make sure we went home with plenty of fish. Very relaxed and comfortable, really a great find!