Kodiak Fishing...
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Kodiak fishing has got to be one of the best fishing opportunities around. It was time to leave the Oregon Coast and Washington State attractions, head north to Alaska for some fishing adventures. After having spent more than a month, during summers end of 2006, I've had the opportunity to explore this vast "Rock" known as Kodiak Island.
Granted, much of Kodiak Island is uninhabited which makes this pristine island a great opportunity to discover the essence of Kodiak fishing. You have several options from fishing the banks of local rivers for an array of salmon, fly-fishing in some nearby lakes, fly in to a remote bay or take the plunge and hope aboard one of the many exciting Kodiak fishing charters.
We opted to climb aboard the "U-Rascal", a 43-foot high speed sport fishing vessel, perfect for Kodiak fishing.
Boat owner and Captain, Chris Fiala will make your fishing experience one to remember, he knows how to find fish and catch them.
Chris is also one of the only Kodiak charter boats that fish year round. So, if you have an inkling to "get away" on a moments notice during Kodiak's off-season, check with Chris about this unique opportunity.
You can contact Chris at: 800-575-5380, email: GoFishing@ak.net, or visit www.GoFishingKodiak.net.
Larry Krishnek from Bellingham, WA, featured in the photo, can attest to Chris's ability to scout out the fish.
This King Salmon, one of several prize fish caught on an afternoon of fishing, proves Chris's capability.
If you need a place to stay, ask "Captain Chris" about his "Bed & Breakfast". He doesn't advertise this wonderful abode, it's kind of a secret, until now.
In Between Reeling In The Fish Check Out These Opportunities...
Kodiak is host to the largest U.S. Coast Guard Base. If you fly into Kodiak, the base is just adjacent to Kodiak's airport.
As of this writing you are free to visit the base. You can enjoy one of Kodiaks inexpensive meals at the base's Pizzeria. They have a host of food items for you to enjoy. Great place to drop in for a lunch.
While on the base, drive or walk around the perimeter, simply follow the road as it winds along the scenic coastline. It's approximately a 2-mile loop and makes for a great walk or scenic drive. We've seen numerous forms of wildlife and fish jumping in the pristine waters.
Another great lunch option is at "Cost Savers". It's located on Mill Bay Road, just past the Municipal Airport. Just ask anyone where Cost Savers is located. Inside the store you'll find an array of "Kirkland" goods, the Costco brand. You have the opportunity to buy some bulk items if you desire. In the back of the store is "Big Al's", notably known for the best pizza in town. They have the greatest lunch specials Kodiak has to offer. I like the "Club Sandwich" with a Chicken Caesar Salad and a juice beverage. All for under $7.00. You won't find this kind of Special anywhere else in Kodiak.
Another fabulous lunch option is a visit to the "Old Powerhouse Restaurant". Located right on the water in the Historic Power Plant Building, you can get a superb lunch at a reasonable cost. I particularly like the sushi bar with all the trimmings.
Kodiak's road system is relatively short so you can drive the entire road system within a day. If you want to explore some of the areas in more detail than merely driving by, take an extra day or two. I especially like "Fossil Beach" and "Anton Larsen Bay". Check with the locals and they'll quickly fill you in where to go and what to see. Also, Kodiak has a Tourist Information Center right in the Downtown area, near the large Trident Cannery. You can review all of the Kodiak opportunities under one roof.
Just Do It!!!
Don't waste anytime thinking of a Kodiak fishing trip, plan it and make it happen. If you're planning on heading to Kodiak during the summer season, plan ahead and make your reservations early, 800-575-5380.
So far the big Cruise Ships have not made numerous dockings into the Kodiak waters. It's only a matter of time, and when that happens, Kodiak fishing charters are going to be extremely busy making it even harder to obtain a reservation.Take advantage now, while Kodiak is still in it's infant stage and make your next fishing trip to Kodiak Island.
An added note, these fishing trips make an excellent gift for the one(s) you care about. Treat them to a "once-in-a lifetime" opportunity.
You can fly into Kodiak via Anchorage. Check out our Travel Network for flight, vehicle rental and/or lodging options.
We'd also like to hear about your Kodiak Fishing experience, contact us.
Craig Dahl - The Travel Expert
Senior Editor
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