Giant Salmon of Goodnews River - Bring the Camera |
 |
 |
Page 4 of 4
Bring the CameraAlaska. It’s everything you’ve heard about and more. While you can spend days dedicated solely to sightseeing, I commonly see a huge variety of wildlife and enjoy endless vistas of gorgeous scenery just in the process of fishing. The remoteness of Goodnews River Lodge means you won’t find crowds of anglers or tourists. While fishing is of course the main activity, hikers can choose from half- and full-day excursions, with terrain varying from coastal to inland along the hills. Whether fishing or just walking around, be prepared at any time to snap images of bears, caribou, moose, walrus, seals, beaver, fox and a dizzying array of bird life – sometimes several species appearing in the area at the same time. If you have a camera that allows it, be sure to also bring along a telephoto lens of 200 to 300 millimeters or more.
Speaking of bears, grizzlies certainly are commonly viewed. But don’t let the fear of a bear encounter prevent visiting here. A Goodnews River Lodge guest has never experienced a dangerous scrape with a bear. Bears tend to avoid humans and scamper off usually before they’re seen. Others might stay in the area but keep an eye on us, content to share the river if they perceive no threat. Your guide will be armed just in case, but in all my years of coming here, not even one shot has been fired. The nearby Native American Reservation hosts the proud Yupiks – the largest tribe in Alaska. Their influence is evident in many aspects of the Alaskan culture. They maintain their colorful heritage, and many still speak the native language. As has been the case with generations of their ancestors, Yupiks utilize the resources by fishing, hunting and creating exquisite crafts.
|
