Story and photos by Kodiak Alaskan Adventures
Bent rods and lots of action are part of the Saltery experience.
Kodiak Island has a great reputation for its abundance of fish and easy accessibility to fishing. Most people think of its saltwater fishing as the primary attraction, however Kodiak’s freshwater fishing is not to be overlooked. Kodiak is one of the special places where you can ocean fish and river fish in the same day.
Anglers can catch pinks, sockeyes and cohos in Saltery River depending on which month they visit.
The rivers around Kodiak boast a variety of salmon, including red, chum, silver, and pinks, in addition to Dolly Varden char, steelhead, and rainbow trout. If you are in the mood for something a little more adventurous, a 16-mile side-by side-trip to the Saltery River in Ugak Bay on the east coast of Kodiak Island might be the ticket.
The Historic Trail to Kodiak’s Saltery River
“Saltery”, known by the locals, was named for the salmon saltery that was situated at the mouth of the river in the early 1900’s. The current 16-mile trail was originally created as a road in World War II, when Kodiak was a major staging area for the U.S. Navy. Although the trail has been improved in recent years, the terrain promises adventure as it traverses through wetlands and stream crossings, over a mountain pass, and into a valley with red clay.
This varying terrrain and narrow trail, makes it difficult for most vehicles. Side-by-sides and four- wheelers are the vehicles of choice for this trek. Kodiak Alaskan Adventures, a local charter company owned by John and Katrina Filipowicz, provides a guiding service to Saltery. The Filipowicz’s have called Kodiak home for 10 years and Saltery has been one of their families favorite seasonal adventures. They own two Polaris four-seater side-by-sides that will help you make the journey.
Full-Day Alaskan Adventure
You may get a look at wild horses grazing on the beach when you make the trip to Saltery River with Kodiak Alaskan Adventures.
This full-day excursion begins with a 1.5 hour ride to get there, starting from a dirt parking lot on the road system and extending along the 16-mile trail. Bouncing along in the side-by-sides is an adventure in itself. The terrain and landscape varies, and along each turn it changes. As you approach Saltery Bay, the trail opens up onto an overlook gazing out at the bay’s deep blue water, snow-capped mountains, and wild horses grazing along the beach.
Along Saltery River, there are multiple fishing holes to explore, boasting sockeye, pink, and coho salmon depending on the season. It’s easy to spend the day wandering the river, chasing the fish. Unlike some of the mainland’s river fishing experiences, this one is peaceful, without crowds. Other than a few other adventurers, you are by yourselves.
Wild Kodiak Brown Bear Viewing
One of the things that makes this place special is the Kodiak brown bears. They often wander up and down the river, sharing the space with the fishermen respectfully. It is not unusual to look up and see a brown bear sow pulling salmon from the river and feeding it to her cubs. With eagles flying overhead, the mountain views, and bright blue skies, it’s a picturesque Alaskan experience.
After the long day of fishing, the 16-mile journey back on the trail is a time to reflect on your day and bask in the beauty of Alaska.
This side-by-side trip is not just a fishing trip, it is an Alaskan adventure!
A trip to Saltery River can often include a Kodiak brown bear sighting. They are there, much like you and me, to catch fish.
When the sockeye are in, be ready for fish battles and some delicious fillets.
Kodiak Alaskan Adventures offers day charters for both river fishing and ocean fishing. They also offer a Custom Adventure Package, including housing, transportation, and ocean charters at a reasonable rate. Visit KodiakAlaskanAdventures.com to learn more.