Archive for the ‘Fishing in Alaska’ Category
For a rugged native Alaska vacations consider the Nanamiut Village in the Far North
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the August 1, 2009
For a adventurous outdoor Alaska vacation consider the Anaktuvuk Pass in the Artic National Park.
If what you are seeking for is a genuine rugged Alaska vacation you might want to think about traveling to Nunamiut Village right on the edge of the Gates of Arctic National Park and Preserve. Here you will discover people that are children of those that have coexisted in the region since before 500 BC. These People survived on caribou, which they still hunt, eat, and make clothing and more from, exactly as their ancestors.
The beautiful village is one that should be respected for its way of life. When visitors come to the village and disturb the natural flow of the community it is both disrespectful and unwelcome. For this reason the village has designated a camping area that tourist must camp in. This area is located among the willows by the east edge of the runway opposite the village. Be sure to check in with the store, ranger station or community center for more details on the requirements for camping here. Do NOT camp within sight of the village, it is disrespectful toward the residents. Respect them, they have existed here a lot longer than you have been here and have the right to be honored in their home.
The Anaktuvuk Pass consists of just 250 individuals. The village is described as a bush community thus supplies are in short supply. The natives residents still count on caribou herds for alll of their meat, although they also hunt Dall sheep and catch trout and grayling, ptarmigan, and waterfowl.
The temperatures in the region ranges from the 50’s during the summer time to an average of -14 degrees in January. Of course, since its Alaska, and the far north of Alaska, there are recorded cold temperatures of between -56 and -91 degrees. The region receives an average of eleven inches of rainfall with an average snowfall of 63 inches per year.
When touring the region be sure to bring along those items that you will want (and remember you will be packing the load so only bring the necessary items to avoid having to carry the extra weight). The town does not have the facilities that you may be acustomed to in other locations so you won’t be able to run to the store to pick the items up. Don’t forget, it is a absolutely rugged Alaska vacation you are taking, one that will be a great memory for years to come.
If you don’t need the comfort of traditional Alaska tours, and desire a true Far North Alaska vacation then this is the region that you absolutely will want to consider. However, you will not just spend your vacation in Nanamiut Village, but go on to Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, a visit and perhaps an overnight in the village will give you a taste of what it might be like to live this far from the rest of the world and in the manner that their ancestors lived years ago. Come, enjoy and appreciate the region so others will have the chance to experience this natural expanse of the north too.
Visit the Big Game Alaska Wildlife Center on your Alaska Vacation
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the June 26, 2009
While on your Alaska vacation you may want to visit the Big Game Alaska Wildlife Center to get a close up view of some of the big game from the state. You won’t have to hike for miles and hope to see some, you will have the opportunity to visit them at the place where they are cared for by caring people. This 140 acre area was opened to the public in 1993. Here you will be able to see the animals that have been injured or orphaned and are now either back to good health or on their way to it.
The Bald Eagle you will most likely see was saved from a severe gunshot wound. The Great Horned owl will have you trying to turn your head 360 degrees! There are bison for you to learn about and get up close to see. Did you know they can’t see very well but they have a great sense of smell and hearing?
So what is so great about the relative of the goat, the Musk Ox? One of the things that make them so valuable is the winter coat they have that when combed out in the spring yields some of the warmest cloth available anyplace. There are items made from this fabric in the gift shop which is located in the log lodge which was built by the owner, by hand, from logs of trees killed by spruce bark beetles.
University of Alaska Museum of the North - Fairbanks
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the February 15, 2009
Experience the University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks. You have heard of the Alaska Pipeline but did you know that it is run above ground to keep the warm oil from keep from harming the frozen ground? At the museum you will be able to see a 1/3 scale model of the pipeline and get to understand the huge undertaking this engineering wonder required.
The marine mammals are displayed in the museum for you to get to understand better. There are polar bears, seals, walrus, and bowhead whales with stories to help you understand the importance these mammals are to the world.
See some of the clothing worn by the different clans and how the decorations of these, made with beads and buttons, are different from one to the other. You will also see how the animals provided many of the necessary items for the people to survive along with products from the forests made into household utensils.
Preparing For A Rainbow Trout Fishing Adventure During Your Alaska Vacation
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the January 1, 2009
Those who love fun vacations have no shortage of options for great family trips, both throughout the US and abroad. You will easily find recreational activities that everyone will love. However, for the fishing enthusiast, nothing beats an expedition on the spell-binding Alaskan waters.
If you love rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to go. The water is clear, the fish are jumping at your hooks and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
However, prior to heading out on a major fishing expedition, please read on for some ideas and hints that will help your fishing trip go as smoothly as possible.
Be Aware of Your Fishing Seasons
Technically, rainbow trout fishing season in Alaska runs from mid June to the last day of October. But, as most anglers know, that doesn’t mean you can just stand in a river during that time and expect to catch a fish. You need to know where the fish are traveling and where they’ll be when you want to find them. For up-to-date information on trout travel, check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
A Guide by Your Side
Hiring a guide will not only help keep you safe, but will also save your fishing trip. A guide can do a lot more than provide equipment and help you to navigate the Alaska waters - they can also point you to the best-kept secret fishing spots for rainbow trout fishing. Alaska guides need to be licensed, so always look for a qualified and registered individual.
When choosing a guide, select one that provides all the tools and equipment that you’ll need on your trip (instead of lugging it on the plane). Also, inquire about the accommodations, food and experience level of the staff. Some recommended companies include Alaska NW Charters (yacht fishing charters), Alaska Outdoor Adventures, and Puffin Alaska Fishing Charters.
While researching prospective guides online is a great idea, you should always call the person or lodge and speak to them directly before you book. You’ll likely be committing several days in a boat with this individual, so you want to make sure you get a positive vibe and a sense that the person meshes with your fishing personality.
Acquire a Fishing License
Typically, most guides will either arrange your license for you or possess a blanket license that covers you as a passenger of their boats. If you’re not heading out with a guide who does this, you’ll need to purchase your own license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. You can buy it online and should expect to pay $55 for a weeklong license or $145 for yearly access to the Alaskan waters.
In addition to obtaining a license, you must follow several other state rules and regulations regarding sport fishing. For example, you can’t sell fish that were caught by sport fishing, nor can you export them unless they’re properly prepared for transport. You’re also limited in the type of equipment you can use. To review these regulations, contact the Fish and Game office directly or check out their website.
Know What to Pack
Typically, your guide or lodge will supply you with your gear and equipment for fishing. However, you may have to bring your own waders or certain small supplies. Before you depart, you should ask your lodge or guide to supply you with a packing list that’s season specific. Regardless, when packing for Alaska, you need to be prepared for any weather system.
Hints To Make Your Alaska Float Fishing Excursion Thrive
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the November 21, 2008
When you’re planning an Alaska float fishing trip, the focus should be on the planning. Alaska sees over a million tourists every year and that means popular lodges book up fast, charters get reserved and you could get stuck without a seat.
So, plan ahead, book early and know the best places to be. To find out more on how to make your Alaskan fishing trip a hit, keep reading for tips on what to bring, the best season and where to stay.
What to Pack
Ideally, you want to pack clothes that will layer easily - keeping you prepared for hot sun, rainy days and cold nights. Choose a fabric like performance wool or a high-tech fabric that will wick away sweat, dry quickly if it gets wet and keep you warm at night.
Before you start packing all your heavy float fishing gear, double check with your lodge or charter company to see what is and isn’t included in your package. Of course, pack your favorite floats and lures, but many charter companies include larger equipment and safety gear.
Finally, invest in high-quality rain gear. While Gore-Tex may seem like the best choice, it is actually only waterproof for about four to six hours. So, though PVC rain gear can be hot, clammy and uncomfortable, it will keep you dryer for a longer period of time on rainy days.
The Best Time to Go Float Fishing in Alaska
The peak season for float fishing in Alaska is the summer, so it’s between the months of June and September. You’ll likely have warm, if not rainy, weather, great fishing and easy pickings on the water. However, the summer is also prime tourism season, which is why it’s so important to book ahead.
Great Locales for Fishing
Some of the best places for Alaska angling are
* Bristol Bay, the world’s largest salmon fishery which is also home to a wide assortment of other fish
* The Copper River Delta, a fast-moving water rich with trout
* The Kenai River, a place known for its massive king salmon, and
* Kodiak Island, home to great roadside and remote fishing locations
It’s hard not to have a successful fishing vacation trip, but with a little planning you can make any trip a great one. Just remember to hit the best fishing spots, go at the right time and pack appropriately. Also, always check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Fish Division before you book a lodge or charter company. Their website is available at sf.adfg.state.ak.us.
Fish Species For Enjoyable Fly Fishing In Alaskan Waterways
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the November 17, 2008
If you’re thinking of fishing in Alaska, you should recognize the fish species in the area, understand their preferred flies and know what to expect. So, read on for a general overview of the fish species during your next fishing vacation in Alaska.
Pacific Salmon Varieties
The four most populous Pacific salmon varieties in Alaska are: silver salmon, reds or sockeyes, pinks, and Chinook or king salmons. Overall, the Pacific salmon is a great game fish that can put up a fantastic fight and pose an incredible challenge.
It’s important to note that while Pacific salmon won’t eat after returning to fresh waters, they will still strike subsurface and surface flies. However, fly fishers need to be ready to take in what are a large and aggressive fish species. The king salmon in Alaska can weigh close to or over one hundred pounds.
Steelhead Trout
The steelhead trout is a unique rainbow trout that can swim in the open sea or large lake environment, but does spawn in connecting rivers. After their spawning, they’ll return to a large lake or ocean.
The steelhead is strong, large, high-leaping and long-running, making it highly prized among experience fly fishers. It’s also a great catch for the dinner table and an overall tasty fish. The fish averages between 4 and 12 pounds, but can often exceed 20 pounds, particularly in Alaska.
Grayling
The grayling trout is a rare, beautiful and delicate fish found in cold waters - and for fly fishing, Alaska graylings are probably the most prized fish. To survive, the fish needs pure, cold and clear lake or stream water, meaning Alaska is likely the best place in the world to find the grayling.
Graylings mostly feed on live and active insects, but will sometimes eat crustaceans or small minnows. The most effective flies tend to be smaller or dry flies.
An Alaskan grayling will typically grow to about 4 pounds, but they’re a tasty catch and well suited to the dinner table.
Arctic Char
As a trout, the Arctic char lives for the pure and cold waters of Alaskan lakes and streams. The fish makes a great catch that’s lively and strong, though willing to fall for more flies and slightly easier to trick than the rainbow trout. For fly fishing, Alaskan arctic char is an easy lure, but a fantastic catch on any fishing trip.
Not everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the majesty of the Alaskan coastland while going after some of the best fish in the world. If you are able to squeeze in the time, don’t miss out.
A Short Introduction To A Float Fishing Outing Around Alaska
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the September 22, 2008
Alaska float fishing, also known as angling, is some of the best in the world. The salmon are massive, the scenery spectacular and the fishing adventure is unbeatable. For an overview of angling, good angling sites in Alaska and where to look for more information, keep reading.
Float Fishing Explained
Float fishing is basically a form of angling that uses floats, and angling is any form of fishing using a rod, line and hook. The float, essentially, is used to not only suspend the bait, but also indicate when a fish is biting. The float will move and bounce, letting the fisherman know to draw his line.
Alaska Fishing Licenses
If you’re planning an Alaska float fishing vacation, you’ll need a license. The license fees for non-residents are $20 for a day, $35 for three days, $55 for a week and $80 for two weeks.
If you want to fish king salmon, you’ll need to purchase an additional stamp which costs $10 for the first day, $20 for three days, $30 for seven days and $50 for fourteen days.
Hot Fishing Spots in Alaska
The thing about Alaska fishing is that it’s more about your timing than any of your fishing locations. This is why having a guide can be so critical for a successful fishing trip there. Nonetheless, the best locations are Bristol Bay, the Copper River Delta, the Kenai River and Kodiak Island.
Kodiak Island is known for its abundance of salmon and great roadside and float fishing. The Kenai River has massive king salmon, but they’re fast and strong, making them hard to catch for a beginner fisher and not the best for float fishing.
The Copper River Delta has an abundant fish supply and is fairly isolated, however the waters run quickly. Finally, Bristol Bay is the world’s biggest salmon fishery and is home to a number of high-quality lodges and fishing destinations that also cater to those hunting rainbow trout and other fish.
Where to Find More Information
If you’re seeking information on Alaska float fishing, good fishing tour companies or recommended lodges for your fishing vacations, your best resource is the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Fish Division (sf.adfg.state.ak.us).
Their website has information on fishing in Alaska, how to buy a fishing license, location-specific info and resources on recommended local companies. Check out the free resources to gather the key information you need to nail down a great vacation.
Handy Pointers For Fishing Experiences In Alaska
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the September 15, 2008
So, you’re investigating Alaska fishing vacations? Maybe wondering what to bring, where to book and how to prepare for what could be the adventure of a lifetime?
Alaska has the best fishing in the world, pristine wilderness, amazing landscapes and plentiful wildlife, so don’t let poor planning spoil your vacation. Keep reading for four great tips that will make your fishing expedition a success.
Plan for Bugs
To avoid a mosquito nightmare, plan ahead by packing a high-quality mosquito net hat, long-sleeved shirts and pants free from holes. Look for clothing that offers ventilation, but has holes that are small enough to keep out the pesky bugs. You should also bring a strong, cream-based mosquito and bug repellent, and avoid depending on mosquito coils.
Pack Sunscreen
Despite the sometimes cold temperatures and rain, there are still high risks for sun damage and possible sunstroke. Keep yourself protected with long clothing and a high-quality, non-greasy and waterproof sun block. Choose an SPF higher than 30 and avoid combo bug-repellent products as these tend to wear off faster.
Book Ahead
During the peak summer tourism seasons, places like Juneau, Anchorage and Flagstaff can book up fast. The area sees over a million tourists every year, many of whom are booking their own Alaska fishing adventure - meaning hotels will fill up, recommended charters will be reserved and you’ll be left wishing you had planned ahead. Don’t be disappointed - book your lodgings and charters well in advance.
Always Pack a Personal Survival Kit
Whether you’re on a fully catered luxury tour or a self-guided adventure expedition, you should always pack a small survival kit that can be carried in a vest or pocket at all times - in case you’re separated from your pack or tour group.
The kit should include purification pills, waterproof matches, chalk to make markings, a whistle, a granola bar, fishing line and hooks and a Ziploc bag for carrying water. You can pack it all in a metal tin or can, which can also be used to boil water.
Alaska fishing vacations are the adventure of a lifetime, offering abundant fishing, beautiful wilderness and truly wild nature. You can make that trip even better and safer by following these four critical tips - book ahead, plan for bugs, safeguard against the sun and be prepared with a wilderness survival kit. These are simple preparations, take very little time, and will all enhance your fishing experience.
Why Fly-in Fishing Outings In Alaska Give Up The Best Catches
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the September 8, 2008
If you’re planning a fishing vacation but debating whether the extra cost of an Alaska fly-in fishing adventure is really worth it, it is. Booking with a flight charter service or a lodge with float boat service means you can be flexible, go where the fish are, hit the remote spots, do more and see more.
Still deciding whether it’s worth it? Read on for an overview of why fly-in will make your Alaskan fishing experience even better.
Follow the Fish
Most of the fish in Alaska are migratory. That means if you book at a particular lodge and the fish have already passed through or aren’t there yet, you could have slow fishing all week and not much of an experience.
If you had booked a fly-in trip at a lodge that offers float boat services, you’d have the flexibility to travel to where the fishing is good. So, instead of depending on predictions, you can base your fishing on up-to-date migration information.
Because the bulk of their business is based on taking customers to the best fishing spots right “now,” most flight charter companies employ naturalists or highly experienced, local staff who are dedicated to tracking fish migrations and finding you the best fishing.
Hit the Remote Spots
If you’re a solitary fisherman, someone who hates competing for fish, you can’t beat the fly-in experience. Instead of spending your day looking for a fishing spot that’s not already occupied, you can fly in to some of the most remote and not-accessible-by-boat locations in the state.
Do More
Choosing an Alaska fly-in fishing vacation over a lodge or boat-focused trip means you can hit a lot more fishing holes. You’re not as limited by time, water systems or distance - therefore, you can do more, see more and fish more.
In addition to being able to spend more time fishing, you also have greater opportunities for alternate activities like hiking, kayaking, rafting or wilderness watching. Instead of tethering yourself to one lodge and the area around it, you can easily arrange side trips and expeditions with a flight-based trip.
Flightseeing Opportunities
The best side benefit to an Alaska fly-in fishing trip is all the sightseeing opportunities. Each day, you travel to a new fishing spot, and on your way you’re getting an included tour of the state’s majestic beauty and wilderness.
Since Alaska has perhaps the most spectacular wilderness and scenery in the world, the view is no small bonus for the person who loves the outdoors. You can do some of the best fishing anywhere and simultaneously enjoy breath-taking views of the landscape and animals which inhabit it. It is a fishing excursion well worth the time and effort to get there.
Ideas For Preparing For A Fulfilling Float Fishing Vacation In Alaska
Posted in Fishing in Alaska on the August 30, 2008
When it comes to planning a float fishing trip, Alaska is like the Mecca of fishing spots. The views are incredible, the waters are pristine and the fish are abundant.
You’ll find rivers full of fish, beautiful landscapes, great people and an incredible experience. However, before you start booking, read on for a few tips that will ensure your Alaskan fishing adventure is one to remember.
Try a Vacation Planner Service
Instead of tethering yourself to one lodge or a specific charter company, you can opt to use a trip planning service. Most Alaskan vacation planners will work within your budget, booking your trip according to when you’re coming, your fishing skill level and where you can find the best fishing.
One company recommended by the Frommer’s Guide to Alaska are Sport Fishing Alaska (907-344-8674). They can coordinate all your need, including your lodging and local travel options.
Be Informed
Because most of the fish in Alaska are migratory, it’s so important to know when they’re in season, as well as where they’ll be at a specific time. Otherwise, you could find yourself staying at an empty lodge next to a river with no fish.
Probably the best information resource is the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s Sport Fish Division. You can access their information at sf.adfg.state.ak.us. Their site is updated weekly with hot spots, run timing facts and general educational information on fishing in Alaska.
For region-specific information, you can click on particular areas of the state and obtain publications or guides for fishing in that locale. You can also contact the local offices by phone (numbers listed on the website) for guide or charter service recommendations.
Book in Advance
For a peak-season float fishing trip, Alaska residents and travel veterans recommend reserving your place early. The best lodges at the peak fishing times tend to book up quickly, meaning you need to be prepared and ready to reserve your place. You’ll also find that port cities and airport hubs can become overcrowded with tourists, so commit to your hotel and rental car well ahead of time.
Packing List for Alaska Fishing
Alaska is all about wild temperatures - from the hot noon sun to the cold nights or pouring rain. Plan ahead by packing clothes that can be layered, will dry quickly and will wick away sweat.
Also, invest your money in a high-quality, waterproof and wind-resistant rainwear suit that’s designed for fishing vacations. To ensure a comfortable and safe float fishing trip, Alaska residents know you have to pack the right clothes and be prepared.