Business Details
28 Years
experience
Premier Alaska Fly Fishing Float Trips for Wilderness Adventure
Ed Collins has established itself as a premier provider of customized Alaska fly fishing float trips, combining decades of expertise with a deep commitment to wilderness conservation. Founded in 1998, our team of seasoned guides brings over 20 years of collective experience, pioneering expeditions on remote rivers that offer unparalleled solitude and world-class fishing opportunities. We specialize in private, tailored adventures that prioritize catch-and-release practices, low-impact camping, and immersive experiences in Alaska's pristine ecosystems. Our guides, recognized as industry leaders, ensure every trip delivers exceptional service, gourmet meals, and top-tier equipment while maintaining a 100% safety record.As stewards of the rivers we operate on, we actively support conservation efforts, including partnerships with Trout Unlimited to protect critical habitats. With a focus on multi-generational groups and eco-conscious travelers, we craft fluid itineraries that may include wildlife viewing, photography, and hiking, ensuring each guest's experience aligns with their interests. Our reputation for excellence is evidenced by a loyal clientele and testimonials praising our unmatched expertise, logistical precision, and dedication to creating lifelong memories in Alaska's wilderness.
Services
Fly Fishing Trips
Guided Expeditions
Customized Itineraries
Eco-Friendly Tours
Wildlife Viewing
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience pioneering Alaska float fishing expeditions on remote rivers.
- Our guides are industry-recognized experts with decades of combined wilderness expertise.
- We maintain a 100% safety record and use top-tier equipment for all expeditions.
- Our trips include gourmet meals prepared by guides trained in professional culinary skills.
- We actively support conservation efforts through Trout Unlimited membership and low-impact practices.
What people say
Exceptional guides
Gourmet meals
Unforgettable wilderness
Perfect logistics
World-class fishing
Services
Fly Fishing Trips
Our guided fly fishing trips target species like Alaska rainbow trout, Pacific salmon, and Arctic grayling in remote rivers. We provide expert instruction, top-tier gear, and strategic river navigation to maximize catch-and-release opportunities. Trips emphasize conservation, wilderness immersion, and personalized itineraries tailored to group skill levels and interests.
Guided Expeditions
Customized multi-day rafting adventures explore Alaska's most pristine rivers, combining fishing with wildlife viewing and photography. Our veteran guides ensure seamless logistics, gourmet meals, and access to secluded fishing spots unreachable by lodges or motorized traffic, prioritizing solitude and natural beauty.
Eco-Friendly Tours
Low-impact expeditions follow strict catch-and-release practices and Leave No Trace principles. We partner with conservation organizations to protect river ecosystems while educating guests on Alaska's biodiversity. These tours balance adventure with environmental stewardship for conscious travelers.
Customized Itineraries
Fully tailored adventures accommodate specific group preferences, from family-friendly outings to hardcore angler-focused journeys. We adjust pacing, fishing intensity, and camp locations to match client goals, ensuring a unique experience that aligns with individual interests and physical capabilities.
Wildlife Viewing
Trips incorporate opportunities to observe Alaska's wildlife, including bears, eagles, and marine species. Our naturalist-trained guides provide educational insights on local ecosystems, enhancing fishing adventures with immersive encounters in one of the world's last true wildernesses.
People
Marty Decker
Founder & Lead Guide
Marty Decker, founder of Ed Collins, has over 40 years of Alaska wilderness experience. A former Kanektok River guide since 1982, he combines fly fishing expertise with culinary skills and deep river knowledge to create memorable trips. His leadership emphasizes conservation and personalized service.
Chuck Ash
Guide Emeritus
Chuck Ash, a Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, brings 40+ years of guiding experience. A biologist and retired educator, he specializes in the Goodnews and Koktuli Rivers. His expertise in Alaska's ecosystems and legendary status in the fly fishing community enhance every expedition.
Zach Johnson
Senior Guide
Zach Johnson, with 18 years at FRG, is a seasoned outdoorsman and expert raft guide. A former Denali mountaineering guide, he excels in equipment repair, camp logistics, and fly fishing instruction. His adaptability and positive attitude ensure smooth operations in remote conditions.
Tom Schwartz
Naturalist Guide
Tom Schwartz combines 15 years of FRG experience with a background as a middle school teacher and naturalist. His expertise in Alaska's flora and fauna, coupled with culinary skills, enriches guests' understanding of the ecosystem while delivering exceptional fishing experiences.
Oscar Jones
Junior Guide
Oscar Jones, the youngest FRG guide, brings fresh energy and a lifelong Alaskan perspective. A University of Alaska student focused on resource management, he combines trapping, skiing, and guiding experience to contribute to the team's dynamic while ensuring productive fishing days.
Questions
What rivers do you operate on in Alaska?
We guide trips on the Aniak, Arolik, Goodnews, Kisaralik, Kwethluk (Western Alaska), Alagnak River, American Creek, Moraine Creek (Katmai Region), and Koktuli River, Lake Creek, Stuyahok River (Alaska Range).
What species can I expect to catch?
Our trips target Alaska rainbow trout, dolly varden, Arctic grayling, sea-run char, and all five Pacific salmon species, with opportunities for pike in select rivers.
Are your trips suitable for families?
Yes! We customize trips for multi-generational groups, adjusting activity levels and educational components to accommodate children and adults with varying experience levels.
What safety measures do you have?
We maintain a 100% safety record with professional guides trained in wilderness first aid, swiftwater rescue, and emergency protocols. All equipment meets rigorous safety standards.
How do you handle food and accommodations?
Our guides prepare gourmet meals using fresh ingredients. We provide comfortable tents and camping gear, with setups moved daily to follow optimal fishing locations while minimizing environmental impact.
What conservation practices do you follow?
We practice strict catch-and-release, low-impact camping, and partner with Trout Unlimited. Our operations limit salmon consumption and prioritize protecting river ecosystems for future generations.
