Friday, February 21, 2014

Have An Unforgettable Experience With Ketchikan Fishing Charters

By Krystal Branch


Few states in the USA can claim such huge swathes of pristine wilderness as Alaska can. In winter it may be difficult to appreciate the wildlife as you zip past on a snowmobile in freezing temperatures. In summer, however, Alaska really comes into its own with mountains to climb, forests to explore and waters to fish. Ketchikan fishing charters are one way to help you experience the beauty of the state and to have a great Alaskan summer.

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.

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.

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.

The waters in the area yield more than just an abundance of salmon. Halibut is common too, as are red snapper and cod. Shrimp and crab can be had too. A charter company can arrange a trip for you out on the ocean but they can also offer an inland wilderness experience. Hike to one of the many lakes or gurgling streams here, pick a few berries as you go along, view the wildlife and try and hook some trout or other species of freshwater fish.

Fresh fish is heavenly when it's seared only lightly on a hot grill and then served with a buttery, lemony sauce. Otherwise, roast it with some onions or poach it. For something different, try ceviche, where you don't cook the fish at all, at least not with the application of heat. The addition of lots of lemon juice will cause a chemical reaction that will cook the fish for you. If you have more fish than you can eat in one sitting, turn it into cakes that you can freeze.

Of course you don't have to catch the fish yourself in order to enjoy it. Ketchikan has plenty of fish markets and restaurants. The city has a lot to offer those visitors who don't like fishing, so you can bring the whole family on our trip. The kids will love the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, a zip-line adventure or to see real totem poles. Otherwise, simply take a relaxing stroll through the streets. Creek Street is especially picturesque with its waterfront setting.

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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