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.
The climate in southern Alaska is comparatively mild, and proximity to Anchorage makes getting there easy. The Kenai peninsula juts southward, and some parts are suitable for farming. Although this is the most populous part of Alaska, most residents of the lower 48 would consider it wilderness, with only a few small cities and roads nestled beneath glacier-covered peaks.
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.
On the river, one of the most popular techniques is called drifting, allowing the natural currents to power the boat while lures tempt the salmon below. Another is back-bouncing, utilizing an on-board engine to back into pools and other good spots. Hiring an experienced and skilled boat operator and guide is important. Peak season sees a huge influx of boats, making accidents more likely.
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.
While the focus is on fish, there are also ample outdoor opportunities for non-anglers. Some lodges offer packages that include hiking, river rafting, or sightseeing. Those interested in viewing the local wildlife often discover native Alaskan moose and caribou nearby, and eagles and other native birds are still abundant. At the end of a busy day, visitors can unwind in true Alaskan style in front of a crackling fireplace.
Although there is still an abundance of natural life here, visitors need to respect sport fishing regulations. This area still sustains a large salmon run due to good wildlife management. Alaska may seem remote, but the encroachment of civilization has already affected the numbers of surviving fish, and care must be taken to ensure that these wild populations will still exist for coming generations.
The climate in southern Alaska is comparatively mild, and proximity to Anchorage makes getting there easy. The Kenai peninsula juts southward, and some parts are suitable for farming. Although this is the most populous part of Alaska, most residents of the lower 48 would consider it wilderness, with only a few small cities and roads nestled beneath glacier-covered peaks.
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.
On the river, one of the most popular techniques is called drifting, allowing the natural currents to power the boat while lures tempt the salmon below. Another is back-bouncing, utilizing an on-board engine to back into pools and other good spots. Hiring an experienced and skilled boat operator and guide is important. Peak season sees a huge influx of boats, making accidents more likely.
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.
While the focus is on fish, there are also ample outdoor opportunities for non-anglers. Some lodges offer packages that include hiking, river rafting, or sightseeing. Those interested in viewing the local wildlife often discover native Alaskan moose and caribou nearby, and eagles and other native birds are still abundant. At the end of a busy day, visitors can unwind in true Alaskan style in front of a crackling fireplace.
Although there is still an abundance of natural life here, visitors need to respect sport fishing regulations. This area still sustains a large salmon run due to good wildlife management. Alaska may seem remote, but the encroachment of civilization has already affected the numbers of surviving fish, and care must be taken to ensure that these wild populations will still exist for coming generations.
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Come and pay a visit to Kenai fishing lodges for the ultimate fishing experience. For a unique and first hand experience, watch the online video here at http://www.salmoncatcherlodge.com.
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