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.
For most visitors, salmon are the biggest attraction. Several different varieties of this fish call this region home, and return consistently to spawn in the same waters where they were born. Apropos to its name, the King salmon is highly prized. Before departing for the open sea, young salmon live around a year in fresh water, and their life in the open ocean is still mysterious.
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 of the most popular angling methods is called boat drifting, which allows the natural river current to guide the lure. Back-bouncing is another common technique, using the motor to move backwards over prime spots. Having a skilled and experienced local guide and boat operator is crucial. Peak periods bring many boats to the river, and inexperience can cause accidents.
Many guides can be booked through local lodges. These establishments are basically wilderness hotels specializing in the needs of fishermen and other outdoor-loving visitors. They not only keep everyone well-fed, but may also book local day trips, as well as arrange for boats and the latest sports gear. For guests that are successful, they will process and store the catch of the day.
Although the main attraction has scales and fins, there are also unique activities available for non-fishermen. Some establishments arrange river rafting expeditions, wilderness hikes, or less strenuous sightseeing. Southern Alaska is home to native moose and bears, and raptors and other birds still fill the skies. At the end of the day, guests can relax before a roaring fire.
This area is still home to a healthy and enormous variety of wild creatures, and visitors should respect the local rules that govern fishing. Good wildlife management is one reason that this area is still relatively pristine. The pressures of civilization and pollution have already had an enormous effect on the salmon even in this remote area, and heeding the guidelines ensures their future survival.
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.
For most visitors, salmon are the biggest attraction. Several different varieties of this fish call this region home, and return consistently to spawn in the same waters where they were born. Apropos to its name, the King salmon is highly prized. Before departing for the open sea, young salmon live around a year in fresh water, and their life in the open ocean is still mysterious.
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 of the most popular angling methods is called boat drifting, which allows the natural river current to guide the lure. Back-bouncing is another common technique, using the motor to move backwards over prime spots. Having a skilled and experienced local guide and boat operator is crucial. Peak periods bring many boats to the river, and inexperience can cause accidents.
Many guides can be booked through local lodges. These establishments are basically wilderness hotels specializing in the needs of fishermen and other outdoor-loving visitors. They not only keep everyone well-fed, but may also book local day trips, as well as arrange for boats and the latest sports gear. For guests that are successful, they will process and store the catch of the day.
Although the main attraction has scales and fins, there are also unique activities available for non-fishermen. Some establishments arrange river rafting expeditions, wilderness hikes, or less strenuous sightseeing. Southern Alaska is home to native moose and bears, and raptors and other birds still fill the skies. At the end of the day, guests can relax before a roaring fire.
This area is still home to a healthy and enormous variety of wild creatures, and visitors should respect the local rules that govern fishing. Good wildlife management is one reason that this area is still relatively pristine. The pressures of civilization and pollution have already had an enormous effect on the salmon even in this remote area, and heeding the guidelines ensures their future survival.
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