With the onset of 2009, it's time to plan for this season's major trips. February is my time of year to begin to hone down that dream list of fishing trips into a more realistic game plan. But how does one choose which trips to pursue when there are just too many great options for angling nirvana? Here is a range of considerations that go through our minds at Fish Alaska magazine as we're planning our own adventures.
1. The range of species available to the angler-Perhaps you head to a remote river in anticipation of catching king salmon and arrive a week early or late. Many a fishing trip has been saved because of the resident species when the anadromous fish are absent. Look into what other fish inhabit the drainage and aim for those that hold species like Arctic grayling, Arctic char, Dolly Varden, rainbow trout, lake trout, sheefish and northern pike. Even whitefish will do when there's no salmon to be found!
2. Does the lodge sit on favorable home water-Alaska's weather is rather extreme and there are days when it is not safe to fly. Choose lodges that position themselves near or on prime water so that when you've got to stay home, you are still able to fish.
3. What types of activities exist after you are done fishing for the day-While I am one of those afflicted souls who spends entirely too many waking hours pounding the water for the chance at one good fish, I recognize that most of you are more balanced and would like some other activities during your vacation in addition to fishing. For the angler not consumed with fish fever, look at proximity to larger cities when choosing destinations. Most of Alaska's major population centers offer a full range of activities for the visiting family.
4. Salt- or freshwater fishing-Beyond the obvious consideration about targeted species, how does one choose to fish saltwater over freshwater? If seasickness is not an issue, then we get into a matter of styles. Saltwater fishing is generally a little more difficult, between the bucking boat, heavier tackle and larger fish. However, the fish are more aggressive and are generally more eager to bite. Freshwater can be more challenging, especially when the fish become lock-jawed or their numbers are low. Hooking sockeye can be a real uphill battle to the angler new to salmon fishing. First I'd consider overall abilities and then species concerns before deciding which style to choose. Heck, you should probably experience both in abundance before making an educated choice.
5. Level of luxury-A trout bum from Colorado would probably be overjoyed to experience a wilderness float down a river like the Kisaralik, sleeping in a tent, eating Mountain House meals and catching fish until his arms were completely worn out. The same would not hold true for the retired executive in his mid-60's who has brought his wife and another couple with him to experience Alaska. This group would probably be best served to stay at one of Bristol Bay's top lodges and have the services of a guide and the luxuries provided in this setting-namely top-notch food, a warm bed and a plane to transport him to the area's prime angling options.
6. Budget-For the experienced angler, cost can be spared through unguided fishing. Your catch rates will not be as good, but there is something rewarding about figuring it out on your own. If you want to travel to Anchorage and rent a motorhome, you can head down the Kenai Peninsula and wet a line in any number of streams. If you time it right and are successful in angling, then you can cut the budget further by living off the fish. For many, including large families with small children, this can be a great way to see some of the more traveled portions of Alaska. Taking it one level deeper, a wilderness float trip is a fantastic way to get into lots of fish at a reasonable price. Use caution when planning these adventures, because many Alaskan rivers are swift and littered with impediments and it takes an experienced oarsman to safely navigate many rivers. Likewise, one should be savvy in camping in bear country. I'd advise the use of a guide in these settings if you lack the necessary skills. Another lower budget option is to stay at a lodge that offers do-it-yourself capabilities. Some lodges in southeast Alaska specialize in skiff rentals combined with adequate accommodations. This gives you the ability to explore a greater range of options, but again, be certain that you have the skill to navigate in Alaska's potentially dangerous settings.
Taking these considerations into account in advance will better allow you to make the right decision on what trips to book in 2009.
