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Monday, February 17, 2014

Experience The Best Of Summer In Alaska With Ketchikan Fishing Charters

By Krystal Branch


Alaska is not quite the snow-covered wasteland that many people think it is. In summer, it is one of the most beautiful states in the USA, with mountains, forests and a variety of water bodies that form a haven for anyone who loves the great outdoors. You can go hunting, hiking or camping but for a really unforgettable experience, consider Ketchikan fishing charters.

The city of Ketchikan is located at Deer Mountain on Revillagigedo Island. It lies on the coast, along a strait that sees Gravina Island on the opposite side. It's the southernmost of Alaska's cities, with Juneau lying almost 240 miles to the north.

The city has a maritime climate very similar to that experienced in Scotland. In winter, even though it may snow, it's not nearly as cold as one would expect an Alaskan town to be. In fact, winters are often really rainy rather than freezing. Summers tend to be on the mild side, making them perfect for being active in the great outdoors.

Alaskan cruises often use Ketchikan as one of their ports of call. Tourism is an important source of income here but the main industries are timber and fishing. In fact, the city is known as the world's salmon capital, with pink salmon, red salmon, king salmon as well as chum salmon to be found here.

Salmon isn't the only type of fish that roams in the area's waters. Halibut, snapper and cod abound too and there are several crab and shrimp species as well. If you don't want to go fishing in the sea, take your rod and tackle and head inland. The lakes and streams are home to trout as well as species like steelhead and grayling. Some charter companies offer trips that include a spot of hiking, which is also a great opportunity for viewing the Alaskan wildlife.

There are many ways to prepare your catch. Grill it and season with just a little lemon juice or skip the heat altogether and use the acidic juice to 'cook' the fish in the style of a South American ceviche. Poach it or roast it slowly and gently in the oven or on the fire. If for some reason there are leftovers, use them to make fish and crab cakes or spreads that will appeal to the kids.

Even if you don't manage to hook your own fish, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the bounty of the waters in the area. Grab some fresh fish at one of the local markets or let a chef in one of the restaurants prepare a tasty seafood dish for you. If you need a different form of entertainment, explore pretty Creek Street where the quaint buildings are perched on stilts, see Ketchikan's colorful and intricately carved totem poles, go on a heart-stopping zip-line adventure or watch the great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.

When you decide that you really do want to go angling, you don't have to search high and low for Ketchikan fishing charters. Many lodges can arrange trips for you or you'll find several charter companies dotted around the city. In summer it may get busy so to avoid disappointment, a good option is to go online and book your trip ahead of time.




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