Alaska changed my life. At 16, my trip to the 49th state would influence life decisions for decades to come, as well as those of my children and grandchildren. Hunting, fishing, and exploring in Alaska is like few places on earth, and you can often do it on public land. I’ve taken a black bear, caribou, and three Sitka blacktail deer on unguided hunts, including two adventures on Kodiak Island. I distinctly remember following the tracks of a person on snowshoes in the fresh snow, when I suddenly realized they were bear tracks. OMG!
Great for Kids and Grandkids
Jasmine and her brother Nick smile behind the huge 87-pound halibut she caught. The fish was so large that we had to use a harpoon to pull it into the boat. Our trip consisted of two grandfathers and three grandchildren, each thrilled by the fantastic sights, sounds, and experiences that Alaska has to offer.
Alaska OYO
I took my first archery black bear while hunting from Island Point Lodge, a unique facility that allows fishermen and hunters to use their boats and equipment to fish or hunt without a guide. Two friends and I used a skiff to access a remote bay where black bears walked along a stream bank to pick up dead salmon. I spotted the mature blackie heading toward me and held my breath and my draw until the bear walked within 20 yards. When the shaft struck behind its shoulder, the beast turned and ran directly for me. I waved my arms and yelled, and the bear passed, only to quickly expire.
Getting There for Half Price
Traveling to Alaska typically involves a lot of flying, but Alaska Airlines offers its credit card holders a break by issuing an annual buddy pass. The flight from Baltimore to Petersburg involved four stops and cost more than $1,000; yet, my grandson flew with me for $100, dramatically reducing the cost of the trip. Flying among the islands of the Southeast involves a modern jet despite the short distances. The hop from Juneau to Petersburg lasted 30 minutes, from Petersburg to Wrangel, 20 minutes, and then onto Ketchikan, just 23 minutes more.
Lifetime Impressions
Investing in an adventure trip for a grandchild is a most worthy endeavor, even though the passage of time may never allow the grandparent to see the result. Young people need to step outside the world of their friends, experience new things, adventures, and meet people who may not look or think like them. I’ll speak more specifically about hunting in tomorrow’s post, but be assured, a hunt or fishing adventure leaves you much more grounded than an Alaskan cruise, and any opportunity to visit our northernmost state should not be missed.