Some people think of Alaska as a perpetually frozen wilderness crisscrossed by occasional oil pipelines. While that may accurately describe some Arctic regions, there are also huge areas still incredibly rich in native North American wildlife. For salmon lovers, Kenai fishing lodges make an excellent home base for an unforgettable Alaskan outdoor experience.
Getting there is not difficult, and the climate is relatively mild. Extending southward from the Anchorage area, the peninsula is dotted with a few small cities. It is one of the few sections of the state suitable for raising crops. Although this is actually the most populated part of Alaska, by most standards it would still be considered a wilderness, with rugged mountains, glaciers, and few roads.
Native salmon are the main draw. There are several varieties that call the river home, making it the most popular fishing region of the state. Each year a portion a number return upstream to spawn, and the King salmon lives up to its royal name. Young fish live for around a year in the fresh water of the river, then leave for an ocean life that is still uncharted.
Each one has an amazingly accurate internal guidance system that steers them unerringly toward home. Some return after only one year at sea, while others may stay away for three or even four years. The size they ultimately reach depends on the length of that stay, and some have reached nearly 100 pounds. Most fall within the 25- to 60-pound range, which is a still a very large fish.
One popular technique used on the river is called boat drifting, or simply going with the flow. Back-bouncing involves moving a boat in reverse using the engine to approach prime spots. The busiest times of year bring large numbers of boats to the river, and inexperience is definitely not an advantage. It is important to hire a truly qualified river guide and pilot.
Many guides work together with local lodges, which are basically small hotels. These establishments provide standard services such as a hearty breakfast and box lunch, but most also are happy to arrange additional local excursions, and can provide easy access to guides, river boats, and even fishing gear. Some will even store the catch of the day for lucky anglers.
Although the primary focus is fish, there are also other opportunities for adventure. Many lodges arrange rafting expeditions, mountain hikes, or wildlife sightseeing. This is prime bear country, and the native moose are difficult to miss. Eagles and other raptors soar through the skies, and at the end of a long day outdoors visitors can wind down in front of a crackling fire.
While this area still supports a huge and healthy variety of wildlife, visitors should understand the local rules that apply to sport fishing. One of the reasons this peninsula remains pristine and popular is strict wildlife management. Even in this remote are, the pressure of civilization has already affected local salmon runs, and following all guidelines helps ensure that these ancient fish will continue to thrive for future generations.
Getting there is not difficult, and the climate is relatively mild. Extending southward from the Anchorage area, the peninsula is dotted with a few small cities. It is one of the few sections of the state suitable for raising crops. Although this is actually the most populated part of Alaska, by most standards it would still be considered a wilderness, with rugged mountains, glaciers, and few roads.
Native salmon are the main draw. There are several varieties that call the river home, making it the most popular fishing region of the state. Each year a portion a number return upstream to spawn, and the King salmon lives up to its royal name. Young fish live for around a year in the fresh water of the river, then leave for an ocean life that is still uncharted.
Each one has an amazingly accurate internal guidance system that steers them unerringly toward home. Some return after only one year at sea, while others may stay away for three or even four years. The size they ultimately reach depends on the length of that stay, and some have reached nearly 100 pounds. Most fall within the 25- to 60-pound range, which is a still a very large fish.
One popular technique used on the river is called boat drifting, or simply going with the flow. Back-bouncing involves moving a boat in reverse using the engine to approach prime spots. The busiest times of year bring large numbers of boats to the river, and inexperience is definitely not an advantage. It is important to hire a truly qualified river guide and pilot.
Many guides work together with local lodges, which are basically small hotels. These establishments provide standard services such as a hearty breakfast and box lunch, but most also are happy to arrange additional local excursions, and can provide easy access to guides, river boats, and even fishing gear. Some will even store the catch of the day for lucky anglers.
Although the primary focus is fish, there are also other opportunities for adventure. Many lodges arrange rafting expeditions, mountain hikes, or wildlife sightseeing. This is prime bear country, and the native moose are difficult to miss. Eagles and other raptors soar through the skies, and at the end of a long day outdoors visitors can wind down in front of a crackling fire.
While this area still supports a huge and healthy variety of wildlife, visitors should understand the local rules that apply to sport fishing. One of the reasons this peninsula remains pristine and popular is strict wildlife management. Even in this remote are, the pressure of civilization has already affected local salmon runs, and following all guidelines helps ensure that these ancient fish will continue to thrive for future generations.
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