Alaska: Bears, Glaciers, Eagles & More

As mentioned earlier part of Alaska’s allure is much more than the actual fishing. Obviously, you can’t see all there is to see in ten lifetimes but while your up here waving the long stick there are some side destinations that are definitely worth your time. In some locations the natural wonders known as glaciers are just a boat ride away. These massive ice structures are awe inspiring, beautiful and powerful and a must see. The first thing that comes to many peoples minds when they think of Alaska is bears. These rugged majestic beasts command the respect of the most seasoned outdoorsman. Although bears can be seen while your fishing I would definitely not overlook a bear viewing day trip while your up here. If you happen to be around the Naknek lake system the Brooks River is a short plane or boat ride away. If you’ve ever seen pictures of bears standing in rivers catching fish as they jump up waterfalls, those pictures were probably taken at the famous brooks falls. This short river is the number one bear viewing spot in the world and also has some fabulous fishing. Another thing to see near brooks is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes which was created by a historically large eruption of a nearby volcano. There is a road from Brooks and a tour bus that runs day trips to the valley. Of course the largest brown bears in the world are known as Kodiak Brown Bears and inhabit Kodiak Island. Also know as the emerald isle, it’s the second largest island in the U.S. and pretty much any remote area is home to these giants. Many day trips are available with the local float plane charters. Or, if you are at a remote camp or lodge on Kodiak Island just say that you want to do some bear viewing in addition to your fishing. Speaking of wildlife viewing, whale watching is something many people trek to Alaska for. Many charter boats run half and whole day viewing trips for whales as well as other marine mammals and birds. If you are coming up with a family with smaller children this would be an excellent adventure. I can’t stress enough the importance of just trying to appreciate your surrounding while fly fishing in the last frontier. View the bears, witness the eagles and gawk at the beauty of the mountains and rivers. There is much to see indeed.