What Hetta Lake Offers

Hetta Lake sits in the interior of Prince of Wales Island, roughly 30 miles from the nearest town and accessible only by floatplane or a long hike through old-growth forest. The lake holds Dolly Varden char, cutthroat trout, and a small population of coho salmon, making it a destination for anglers willing to commit time and money to reach it. The water is cold, clear, and deep in places—typical of Southeast Alaska's glacially-fed systems—and the surrounding terrain is steep, forested, and prone to sudden weather changes.

Most anglers reach Hetta Lake as part of a guided trip or a multi-day backcountry expedition. The lake itself is roughly 4 miles long and narrow, with rocky shorelines and submerged structure that hold fish throughout the year. Summer and early fall are the primary fishing seasons, when water temperatures are stable and insects are active.

Key Takeaways

  • Hetta Lake is accessible only by floatplane from Klawock or Craig, making it a remote destination that requires advance planning and a guide or serious backcountry experience.
  • The lake holds Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout year-round, with coho salmon present in late summer and early fall.
  • Fly fishing is the most effective method, particularly with small streamers and nymphs that imitate the lake's natural food sources.
  • Weather in Southeast Alaska changes rapidly, and anglers must be prepared for rain, wind, and sudden temperature drops even in summer.
  • Most successful trips are guided or part of an organized expedition; solo travel requires extensive knowledge of backcountry navigation and survival.

Getting There and Logistics

Floatplane service from Klawock or Craig is the standard route. Charter operators in both towns can land on Hetta Lake directly, though availability depends on weather and advance booking. A typical charter costs between $800 and $1,500 for a round trip, depending on the operator and how many passengers share the flight. Weather delays are common in Southeast Alaska, so build extra days into your schedule.

If you are hiking in, the trail from the Thorne River drainage is rough and unmaintained in places, taking 8 to 12 hours depending on water levels and your fitness. Most anglers do not attempt this route unless they are already in the area for a longer expedition. Once at the lake, there is no developed infrastructure—no cabins, no outfitters, no services. You will need a tent, a stove, and the ability to filter or boil water.

Fish Species and Seasonal Patterns

Dolly Varden are the most abundant fish in Hetta Lake and are present year-round. They range from 8 to 16 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 18 inches. In summer, they feed actively in shallow water near rocky points and creek mouths. As water cools in fall, they move to deeper water but remain catchable on streamers fished slowly near structure.

Cutthroat trout are less numerous than Dolly Varden but larger on average, with fish in the 12- to 18-inch range common. They prefer deeper water and are more selective about fly choice. Cutthroats respond well to small nymphs and midge patterns, particularly in early morning and late evening.

Coho salmon enter the lake in late August and September, moving through on their way to spawning streams. They are aggressive and will take streamers and small spoons, but the window is short and depends on water temperature and stream conditions. Peak coho fishing is usually mid-September through early October.

Fly and Tackle Selection

Bring a 5- to 6-weight rod and floating line as your primary setup. A second rod in the same weight class with a sink-tip line is useful for reaching deeper fish, especially in fall. Pack 150 yards of backing on each reel—Dolly Varden and cutthroats rarely make long runs, but coho salmon will.

Streamers are your most productive flies. Tie or bring patterns in black, olive, and white, sized 2 to 4 inches. Woolly Buggers, Marabou Muddlers, and simple bucktail patterns all work. For nymphs, focus on small dark patterns—size 14 to 18—that imitate chironomids and mayfly nymphs. A few small spoons (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) in silver and gold are worth bringing for coho, though they are not essential if you are primarily targeting char and trout.

Bring more flies than you think you need. Snags are common on rocky shorelines, and losing flies to structure is part of fishing remote lakes. A small net, forceps, and a basic repair kit will save you on the water.

Weather and Timing

Southeast Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Summer days can be warm and clear, but rain and wind are the norm. Temperatures range from the low 50s to the high 60s Fahrenheit during the peak season. Pack rain gear that actually works—not a light jacket, but a quality waterproof shell and pants. Hypothermia is a real risk if you fall in or get caught in wind and rain without proper clothing.

June and July offer longer daylight hours, but water temperatures are still cold and fish can be sluggish. August and September are generally more productive, with warmer water and more active feeding. October is possible but weather becomes increasingly unstable, and daylight hours drop quickly.

Regulations and Permits

Hetta Lake falls under Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations for Southeast Alaska. You will need a valid Alaska fishing license, which can be purchased online or in person before your trip. There are no special permits required for Hetta Lake itself, but regulations on daily catch limits and minimum sizes apply. Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout typically have generous limits, while coho salmon are managed more strictly—check current regulations before you go, as they change year to year.

If you are hiring a guide, they will be familiar with current regulations and can advise you on what is legal. If you are traveling independently, contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game office in Ketchikan or Craig for the most current information.

Guides and Outfitters

Several outfitters based in Craig and Klawock offer trips to Hetta Lake, typically as part of a multi-day package that includes floatplane transportation, meals, and lodging at a remote cabin or camp. These trips run from $3,000 to $6,000 per person for three to five days, depending on the operator and season. A guide will handle navigation, fish location, and safety—valuable on a remote lake where weather and isolation are real concerns.

If you are experienced with backcountry travel and want to fish independently, you can arrange a floatplane charter and go on your own. This is significantly cheaper but requires self-sufficiency and comfort with solitude. Most independent anglers spend three to five days at the lake to justify the charter cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Hetta Lake in winter?

Technically yes, but it is not practical. The lake freezes over, floatplane access becomes unreliable, and temperatures drop well below zero. A few hardy anglers fish through the ice, but this requires specialized equipment and expertise. Summer and fall are the only realistic seasons for most people.

What is the best time to catch coho salmon at Hetta Lake?

Mid-September through early October is peak coho season. The fish are moving through the lake on their way to spawning streams, and they are aggressive. Exact timing depends on water temperature and stream conditions, which vary year to year. A guide or local outfitter can tell you the current conditions before you book.

Do I need a guide to fish Hetta Lake?

No, but it is strongly recommended for first-time visitors. The lake is remote, weather is unpredictable, and navigation can be tricky in fog or rain. A guide handles logistics and safety, freeing you to focus on fishing. If you have extensive backcountry experience and are comfortable with solitude, independent travel is possible.

What should I bring for camping at Hetta Lake?

A three-season tent, sleeping bag rated for 40 degrees Fahrenheit, a camp stove, fuel, and food for your entire stay. Bring a water filter or plan to boil water. Pack extra clothing, rain gear, and a first aid kit. Weight matters on a floatplane, so prioritize essentials and leave luxury items at home.

How much does a floatplane charter to Hetta Lake cost?

Round-trip charters typically run $800 to $1,500 per trip, depending on the operator and how many passengers share the flight. Costs are lower if you can split a charter with other anglers. Ask your outfitter or guide about shared flights, which are often available during peak season.