Alaska Wildlife

Alaska Wildlife
Alaska’s pristine environment abounds with wildlife of all shapes and sizes. It is one of the main reasons many people visit Alaska. Very few places in the world offer such an abundance of animals in such breath-taking land. Whether hunting or just viewing, visitors to Alaska can explore wildlife in a variety of ways.

Hunting
Hunting in Alaska is a combination of survival skills and hunting experience. Hunts can be either guided or unguided. Those on a guided hunt are often provided all the gear needed on the hunt. The guide will lead his party to the best spots to hunt. These may be open tracts of land or special blinds.
On an unguided hunt, trek out into the wilderness on their own. Unguided Alaska hunting should only be attempted by those who are mentally and physically prepared. Those who are prepared can bring home trophy bears, moose, caribou, and wolverines. The Alaskan wilderness is a vastly rewarding place, but also an unforgiving one.

Fishing
Fishermen in Alaska have opportunities not found anywhere else. Gigantic salmon and trout fill the rivers and streams. Fishermen new to fishing Alaska often think their boat is being bumped by underwater rocks or logs, but it is more likely to be a big fish. The challenge here isn’t so much in catching the fish, but in reeling it in. Fishing in Alaska is perfect for all skill levels. An expert angler and a beginner can be in the same party and both enjoy the trip equally.

Ways to Watch
Visitors who just want a chance to see Alaskan wildlife and maybe snap a few pictures have quite a few ways to get to where the wildlife is. Of course, in Alaska, that’s pretty much everywhere.
An Alaskan float trip is a unique way to see wildlife. Float on nearly 200 miles of beautiful river. Pass by mountain ranges, glaciers, and untouched forests. Snowmobiling is another option for getting up close with Alaska’s animals. Either on a tour or a self guided trip, snowmobiles reach parts of Alaska virtually impossible to get to by other means. Take a hike. Nearly every lodge and private tour guide offers some kind of hiking trip either by itself or as part of a package vacation. Scurry cross-country over glaciers, trails, or one of the national parks.

Bear Watching
Bear viewing is becoming an increasingly popular activity for visitors to Alaska. Several lodges have set up special camps with camouflage blinds for viewing bears up close. Charter planes offer “flightseeing” trips. The bears aren’t as close, but more can be seen.
A fun fact: the world’s largest bear was shot in Alaska. The brown bear weighed 1200 pounds and stood 10 feet tall. Considering the average bear weighs only 300 pounds, that’s a pretty big bear!