Saturday, February 22, 2014

Enjoy A Great Alaskan Summer With Ketchikan Fishing Charters

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By Krystal Branch


Alaska is the great frontier, the state where you can enjoy the wilderness like nowhere else. Many people think of this state as a snow-covered place and in winter, this is indeed what most of Alaska looks like. In summer too it's a wonderland with plenty to offer. With plenty of fresh produce from the wild, it's also a gastronomical paradise. Let Ketchikan fishing charters help you enjoy not only the beauty but also the taste of the northernmost state in the USA.

Ketchikan is the southernmost city in Alaska. It's located on the southwest coast of an island with the tongue-twisting name of Revillagigedo, about 235 miles south of Juneau, the state capital. The city lies at the foot of Deer Mountain and a narrow strait separates it from Gravina Island.

You won't get blamed for thinking that Ketchikan reminds you of Scotland. The climate here is very similar to that in the northernmost parts of Britain, with wet winters that aren't quite as cold as you'd have expected them to be here in Alaska. Summer days are perfect for being outdoors since they're not too hot.

Ketchikan is a popular port for cruise ships and also has an important timber industry. However, it's as the salmon capital of the world that the city draws visitors from all over. The waters here are home to various species of salmon, including king salmon, red salmon, pink salmon and chum salmon.

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.

If you haven't had much luck in the fishing waters, don't despair. There are plenty of places in Ketchikan where you can order the freshest seafood. The city also has much more to offer than just fish. Take the kids to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show or marvel at the local totem poles. Soar through the tree canopy on a zip-line or stroll along picturesque Creek Street with its wooden buildings on stilts.

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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