August, 2011 - Alaska Coast Magazine

Transcription

ABSOLUTELY
FREE
Seward Silver Salmon Derby
Official guide inside
75 years and growing
Alaska State Fair celebrates in style
August 2011
www.coast-magazine.com
2 • August 2011 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com
www.coast-magazine.com • August 2011 • COAST • 3
61° NORTH
Shiver me buttocks!
By Craig Medred
W
aking up shivering and cold on the ground sucks, and
every time it happens I have the same thought: How
hard could it be to build an inflatable sleeping pad that doesn’t
leak?
The technology is clearly out there. My years-old Alapacka
packraft has been abused and abused again — dragged over
rocks, jumped on, slept on, beat on, dragged over more rocks,
pulled through snags, washed down rivers, and who knows
what else — and yet, the raft
still holds air just fine.
Therm-a-Rest, the bestknown brand of inflatable
sleeping pad, went on my forget-about-it list years ago.
There were too many cold
nights on hard ground. It’s
bad when an inflatable pad
loses air on a 30-degree night.
Craig Medred
It’s downright ugly when an
inflatable pad loses air on a minus-30-degree night. When this
happens, your body weight compresses the insulation in the
pad down to nothing. It then provides just about as much insulation as the sleeping bag squashed beneath you, and that
would be pretty much none.
With the insulation in the sleeping bag squished, and the
insulation in the pad squashed, you’re basically sleeping on the
ground. You don’t sleep for long on frozen ground at 30
degrees, let alone at minus 30 degrees. You wake up shivering
your butt off.
Then you start blowing air into that pad. This is the defini-
tion of an exercise in futility. In most cases, the pad goes flat
again almost as fast as you blow it up, but there are no alternatives but freezing to death. All of which is why I gave up on
Therm-a-rest inflatable pads and went back to foam pads.
The Mountain Hardwear Backcountry was the best of them.
Mountain Hardwear combined stiff, old closed-cell foam for
insulation, and open-cell foam for comfort. It put them both
inside a waterproof cover to keep the open-cell foam from
doing what its home counterpart, the sponge, does.
The six-and-a-half R-value rating of that pad (which indicates
high thermal resistance) was nice when sleeping on the
Kahitlna Glacier.
But at almost two-and-a-half pounds, the pad was heavy. And
it was bulky. So often as not, it seemed to get left at home in
favor of a one-pound-or-less pad of closed-cell foam, usually
Therm-a-Rest Z-lite or some variation thereof.
These pads provide dependable insulation, but they don’t
provide much comfort. A half-inch to three-quarters inch of
hard foam is better than sleeping on bare ground, but not by
much.
Placed over a bed of fresh-cut spruce boughs, it’s OK. Rolled
out on the rock, well, it’s like sleeping on a rock. Thus I was
tempted back to inflatables. Sleeping on the hard ground is
tough when you get old and soft. Since you have by then spent
a lot of time sleeping on bare ground, you know you could do
it and survive when necessary, which only underlines the question, “Why do it unless it’s necessary?’’ Better to sleep in comfort than prove your toughness.
Enter the Exped Downmat, a three-and-a-half-inch thick
cushion of comfort. Yes, at little more than two pounds in
weight it, too, is on the heavy side. But it packs down much
continued on page 63
PUBLISHER
John Woodbury • (907) 344-2937 • [email protected]
MANAGING
EDITOR
FIELD
Justin Matley
ASSOCIATE
EDITOR
Mary Jean Lochner
FISHING
COLUMNIST
Chris Batin
EDITOR
Craig Medred
SAFETY
MATTERS
Debra McGhan
& DESIGN
Steven Merritt
Working Title Media
L AYO U T
CONTRIBUTORS
Cindy Clock, Jack Bonney, Jake
Schlapfer, Melissa Saunders,
John Schauer, Tim Johnson,
Jennifer Skoog, Dave Nevins,
Christine Balk, Michael DeYoung
Distributed free throughout Alaska
K AYA K A L A S K A
Tom Pogson
MEDIA
SPECIALIST
Leo Grinberg
TRAILSIDE
GOURMET
Mark Bly
PUBLISHED
DISTRIBUTION
MANAGER
Leo Grinberg
AK
ON THE
GO
COLUMNIST
Erin Kirkland
ADVERTISING
EXECUTIVE
Jill Tillion
BY
Alaska Adventure Media
6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207
Anchorage, Alaska 99507
Phone: (907) 677-2900
The opinions expressed in the articles are those
of the writers and do not necessarily reflect
those of the magazine’s management or owners. Many of the activities covered in Coast
magazine are sports that carry significant risk of
personal injury or death. Coast, including its
owners, managers, writers, photographers, and
other staff, does not recommend that anyone
participate in these activities unless they are
experts, seek qualified personal instruction, are
knowledgeable about the risks, and are willing
to personally assume all responsibility associated
with those risks.
COAST
CONTENTS
Vol. 11, No. 4 • August 2011
Cover photo:
A river rafting guide and her
dog enjoy a sunny day
on the Kenai River
Photo by:
Michael DeYoung/AlaskaStock
13
Features
20 11
Seward
Silver
Salmon
Derby
13
®
19
August 13-21
Seward, Alaska
www.seward.com
SEWARD SILVER SALMON DERBY
Official guide inside
Regulars
4
6
7
53
19
SWEET 75
Alaska State Fair pulls out stops
to celebrate birthday
10
16
61 NORTH
Shiver me buttocks!
TOAST
Making the most of summer
TRAILMIX
Wet and wild • Swimming for
a cure • Disc golf in the ‘Wood
• Berry fests • Fungus fair
• Downhill biking
SAFETY MATTERS
The dangers of Inlet mud
51
53
57
58
62
ALASKA ANGLER
Dancing with the devil
TRAILSIDE GOURMET
Roughing it easy
AK ON THE GO
Alaska’s berry bonanza
APRÉS
First Friday
COAST CALENDAR
KAYAK ALASKA
Shake it up a bit
TOAST
Making the most of summer’s end
By Justin Matley
I
t goes without saying that the kind of people required to put
together an outdoor adventure publication are typically busy
and active people. By that I mean that Coasties, as we refer to our
tribe members, have to do more than simply entertain the idea of
exploring Alaska; we MUST seize every opportunity to study and
share Alaska’s travel opportunities.We’re students of the Alaska
outdoors, and are constantly immersing ourselves in the thick of things (even if that means
braving the onslaught of RVs heading up to
Denali in July or standing shoulder-to-shoulder
and chest deep in icy waters during the annual
dip-netting).And speaking of being immersed,
here I sit writing to Coast fans from my notcompletely-comfortable, half-constructed cabin
in remote Alaska, complete with a camp robber
looking over my shoulder (pistachios), a rainy
Justin Matley
chill making its way in through unfinished windows, and roughly ten mosquitoes attempting to break through
my invisible force field of bug spray.
We’re all spread out this month. Mark Bly and myself paid considerable attention to Seward with a mouth-watering visit to
Resurrection Roadhouse for the Trailside Gourmet, which paired
nicely with my in-depth account of the Seward Silver Salmon
Derby. If you want to catch fish, and eat it too, then you’ve come
to the right place.
On your way down to Seward — assuming you follow our
advice for a visit — take a look at the mudflats along the south
Anchorage shore and in Turnagain Arm when the tide is out.You’ll
be all the more knowledgeable for having read Deb McGhan’s
insight as to the sticky situation mudflats can cause. Read up on
the concern in Safety Matters.
Looking to get away from the coast and pursue some Interior
sportfish action? Chris Batin has provided an installment on
Interior pike. Catching fish is one thing; watching the impending
strike on your bait as a huge pike hones in from 30 yards away,
leaving a wake like a torpedo, is something else all together. Find
the methods to catching monster pike in Alaska Angler.
Of course, what’s a fish filet without a desert to follow it up?
You’ll need some berries for that cobbler, and Erin Kirkland is
telling all in AK on the Go with her family-friendly take on berry
picking.
I just mentioned how busy we all are, but Kayak Alaska columcontinued on page 63
JOHN SCHAUER
TRAILMIX
Whitewater enthusiasts ply their way
down Sixmile Creek during last year's
festival. This year's event is Aug. 13.
Wet and wild!
Six-Mile Whitewater Festival set Aug. 13
H
ARDCORE WHITEWATER RACING IS AT THE HEART
OF THE SIX-MILE WHITEWATER FESTIVAL HELD ON
AUG. 13 NEAR HOPE.
Kayakers and pack-rafters compete in this action-packed
extreme race through a “difficult whitewater canyon” that has
“excellent spectator access,” according to organizer Tim
Johnson.
The festival kicks off with the races: kayaker race, pack-rafter
race and inflatable kayak race. Sign-up is at 11 a.m. for participants, with a drive to the race venue and a 1 p.m. race start.
After the race, there’s a whitewater rodeo at 4 p.m., featuring
kayakers doing tricks, jumps and spins on a surfing wave on the
river, with judges evaluating competitors in this free-style event
for difficulty and form. Then from 6-8 p.m. progressive funkrock band Big Fat Buddha plays a riverside bonfire party with
free beer and free raffle.
Yes, you read that correctly. Free beer.
And the riverside party runs to 2 a.m.
Prizes for race winners include drytops, throwbags, rafting
trips for two, t-shirts, books and more. Prizes are awarded to
first, second and third place in each race category. Everything
about the Six-Mile Whitewater festival is free: free entry for par-
ticipants, free raffle, free camping, free live music show and
free beer. However, donations, small or generous, are appreciated and encouraged to help pay for the band and set-up costs.
The festival grounds are located 3.4 miles down the Hope
Highway. To get there, drive 61 miles south of Anchorage on the
Seward Highway until you reach Hope Highway, which is the
only road that leads to the small town of Hope. For more information contact Tim Johnson, [email protected], or go to
www.alaskawhitewater.org.
—Mary Lockner
Swimming for a cure
The Pennock Island Challenge is an open-ocean swim race
near Ketchikan that raises funds for the American Diabetes
Association and has done so since 2004. Now a second race in
its second year, the Sitka Sound Adventure Swim, is also pitting
swimmers in some friendly competition on open water to raise
awareness and funds for the ADA.
Ocean swimming is a mite tougher than swimming in a
pool, said Sitka race director Dave Nevins.
“You have to deal with currents, the cold, jelly fish and whatever else may be swimming around,” Nevins said.“But there are
some people out there that would rather do it in the ocean,
and a few people in the world looking for cold water.”
Mid-August in southeast Alaska is a great weekend for coldwater ocean swimmers: the Sitka Sound Adventure Swim, a 10K
race, is held on Saturday, Aug. 14; and the Pennock Island
Challenge, an eight-mile race, is held on Sunday, Aug. 15.
Nevins said the Sitka race got started after a California swimcontinued on next page
Sitka Sound Adventure participant
Grant Turner swims in the 2010 race.
TRAILMIX continued from page 7
mer, Claudia Rose, decided to do a solo swim to raise funds for
the ADA in 2009. Nevins, a man with diabetes who is heavily
involved in events for raising funds and awareness, hopped a
ride on Rose’s safety boat to watch. The next year, he found
himself race director of the first annual Sitka Sound Adventure
Swim.
Both the Pennock Island Challenge and the Sitka swim raise
funds through donations, entry fees and raffle ticket sales. For
more information about the Pennock race, go to
www.alaskateamada.com. For more information or to register
for the Sitka race, go to www.sitkaadventureracing.org, or contact Dave Nevins, (907) 752-0907 or [email protected]
—Mary Lochner
Disc golf in the ’Wood
Alyeska Resort in Girdwood opened its 20-acre disc golf
course in mid-June. The course is free and provides resort
guests an opportunity to play in the outdoors surrounded by
the Chugach Mountains. The course typically operates midJune through autumn.
The disc golf course is open daily. It’s easy to play, fun for
the whole family and tee times are not required. Discs are available for purchase at the Alyeska Mountain Shop located on the
second floor of The Hotel Alyeska. They range from $14 for distance drivers and $8 for putters. Discs are also available for
rent.
Offering nine holes, each ranging from 300 to 400 feet in
length, the Alyeska course takes a winding path through the
woods, gaining and losing elevation in this links-style layout.
The course begins to looker’s right of the Winner Creek
Trailhead. The course is to be played in a clockwise pattern
which allows players to keep a fluid motion and steady pace
through the course while easily avoiding players on other
holes.
The course offers a mix of challenging holes, variable terrain and rainforest and glacier views.
Information on all of the events and activities at Alyeska can
be found at www.alyeskaresort.com.
—Coast Staff
JENNIFER SKOOG
TRAILMIX
Berry festivals? Take your pick
COURTESY FUNGUS FAIR
Alaska loves blueberries so much it has two blueberry festivals. The first, on Aug. 5-7, is the Blueberry Arts Festival in
Ketchikan. It offers more than 100 booths featuring local art
and crafts; a fun run; food and game booths; Battle of the
Bands; and, of course, a blueberry pie eating contest. There’s
also a pet and doll parade, juried art show and “Trout Fishing
in America” poetry slam.
Then in Girdwood on Aug. 13-14, the Hotel Alyeska hosts
the Alyeska Blueberry Festival in the hotel’s Pond Courtyard.
This festival also offers arts, crafts and food booths, with an
emphasis on blueberries, as well as live local music and a beer
and wine garden.
Both events are a great way to extend the pleasure your
whole family gets out of blueberry season this year. For more
information on the festival in Ketchikan, go to www.ketchikanarts.org. For more information on the festival in Girdwood,
go to www.alyeskaresort.com.
—Mary Lochner
Amanita muscaria is a common mushroom found
in northern parts of the world, including Alaska.
Fungus Fair blossoms
Mycophiles, rejoice: the Girdwood Fungus Fair, replete with
a guest speaker list that comprises a who’s who of the mushroom world, will be held Aug. 25-28 at the Alyeska Resort
Daylodge in Girdwood.
The festival includes fungi displays, talks and workshops
where you could learn everything from how to dye cloth with
mushrooms to how Tibet’s mushrooms are used to nourish
and heal.
There will also be a concert on Saturday, Aug. 28 at the
band shell by the Daylodge with a beer and wine garden. And,
a special event at the fair is the Fungus Fair Formal (a fundraiser for Four Valleys Community School) at Hotel Alyeska. It
includes five gourmet courses featuring edible mushrooms
and wine pairings, plus live and silent auctions and music by
SAFETY MATTERS
CHRISTINE BALK
Small price
Better an ounce of prevention
than a pound of cure
By Debra McGhan
S
trolling along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage
one evening, I noticed three young men in their late teens
heading out barefoot across the tidal mud. Memories of a young
woman, Adeana Dickinson, who died after she got stuck while
trying to push a four-wheeler out of the mud near Ingram
Creek, flashed through my mind.
The Cook Inlet mud didn’t know that she was just 18, a new
bride with her entire life ahead of her.
And the mud didn’t know that these three young men just
wanted to play.
Along Alaska’s coastal rivers and inlets, when the tide
changes, the solid mud turns to Jell-O, quivering and liquefying
beneath your feet. If you sink below the surface, the mud can
grab you in a death grip. That’s what happened to the young
woman at Ingram Creek. Even the professional rescue squads
that came to her aid couldn’t save her. The tale of her slow, horrifying death by drowning while stuck in the mud still haunts
Mudflats pose risks
despite their benign appearance.
me.
Standing on the Coastal Trail, I watched the sun sink on the
western horizon. The mud flats glistened in the light like a
beautiful slab of shimmering fool’s gold. All the while those
young men frolicked and played on the surface.
They had probably never heard that story about the young
bride. Or dozens of other tales, like mine.
As I watched them I thought back to the summer I turned
eight, on a day when my older brother and I put on our brand
new black and red mud boots in preparation for adventure.
August
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 1111
10 • August 2011 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com
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SAFETY MATTERS
SAFETY continued from page 10
Living in south Anchorage at the end of Victor Road in the early
60s meant daily adventure. We spent hours exploring the
woods, lakeshore and inlet that beckoned just outside our door.
On this day, we walked along the inlet where we found a
pocket of mud that you could walk on like concrete. Venturing
onto the smooth gray surface, we stopped and jumped, just to
test it out. Jumping brought water to the surface and slowly
turned the solid mass to gel. The more we jumped and danced
and ran on the surface, the squishier it got. It was cool watching it jiggle under our feet.
Eventually my brother got bored and went off in search of
new phenomena. Still fascinated, I stayed on the mud wiggling
my booted feet into the gooey muck. When I stood still my feet
would slowly sink into the gray gunk. Then I’d pull them free
and move to a new spot to watch it happen again. But then
something changed.
The mud seemed to take on a life of its own as the tide in
the inlet surged closer. When I tried to pull my feet free, they
wouldn’t budge. I really got scared when I realized not only
were my feet locked in the mud, I was sinking deeper with
every wiggle and pull I made.
I started screaming for my brother when I noticed how
close the tide was getting. The mud had topped my boots and
was closing in around my knees. Since my brother was only
nine at the time, he wasn’t much help. He tried holding out a
stick to me, but neither of us were strong enough to break the
Take your family on a safety adventure
To learn about safety tips that could save your life,
come to the North America Outdoor Institute at the Eagle
River Nature Center on Aug. 8 for a day of survival skill
games sponsored by the Alaska Division of Parks and
Outdoor Recreation. Working in teams, players will select a
scenario such as: a five-day backpacking trip on Crow
Creek Pass; a three-day canoe portage trip on the Kenai; or
a hike up Resurrection Pass. Along the way, they will be
presented with real-life challenges and an instructor to
help them learn necessary skills to accomplish the
required task.
The goal is to practice critical skills for safe adventures
on Alaska trails. The cost is $50 per person or $150 for a
family or group of four. Great for anyone age eight years
and up.
Space is limited. Sign up online at www.naoiak.org.
mud’s strangle hold.
“Get dad!” I shouted, tears filling my eyes while I imagined
some horrible monster deep under the mud pulling me to my
death.“Hurry!” I remember seeing my brother shoot up the hill
like a rocket.
As the minutes ticked by, the mud closed in on my thighs.
COAST FILE
The 75th annual
Alaska State Fair kicks
off Aug. 25 in Palmer.
75 years and growing
Alaska State Fair celebrates in style
By Mary Lochner
T
he Alaska State Fair in Palmer is packing a lot of show this
year. It starts in your toes and it crinkles your nose… that’s
right, Colbie Caillat, Grammy-award winning pop star, is playing
the state fair, this year slated for Aug. 25-Sept. 5.That’s current pop
star, in case you didn’t recognize the (paraphrased) line from her
first hit song,“Bubbly.” Her performance at the state fair comes in
the midst of a national tour promoting her new album,“All of You,”
which dropped July 12.
While I’m giving all my secrets away, I might as well tell you
about the other big act coming to town: OneRepublic.Their first
big hit,“Apologize,” broke the record in 2007 for most radio plays
in a week, and the remix version garnered the most digital downloads of any song in history — a record that still holds.Their sophomore album,“Waking Up,” (2009) had its share of hits as well
(“Secrets,”“All the Right Moves”).Their next album is slated for
release sometime in early 2012.
Those two acts are the Alaska State Fair’s major coups.There’s
also a smattering of other acts you’d expect to see at the fair.This
year’s line-up includes alternative metal band Chevelle, country
singer Craig Morgan Greer, rock band Staind, rap-rock-country
singer Uncle Kracker and progressive heavy-metal band
Queensryche.
Also showing are a number of groups that were popular back
in the day. British blues-rock band Foghat have a show, as do the
I Alaska State Fair Concert Series, next page
Rat Pack Revue, a Rat Pack tribute band. And, you don’t have to be
an old-timer to appreciate the Charlie Daniels Band, creators of the
ubiquitously adored classic,“The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”
Also performing at the Alaska State Fair this year – brace yourselves, NPR nerds — is Garrison Keillor, host of the Minnesota
Public Radio show “Prairie Home Companion.”
Last but not least, the very funny and self-deprecating stand-up
comedian Gabriel Iglesias (“I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy,”2009) will
perform.
It’s no coincidence the state fair is doing entertainment big
this year.The Alaska State Fair is turning 75, and its organizers
intend to host a state fair Alaskans won’t soon forget.
If you’re going you could expect to be dazzled by a cluster of
family-tastic entertainments, including knife throwing, acrobatics,
lumberjacks, racing pigs, bike stunts, magic tricks, kookaburras,
fiddle gigs, carnival rides, fire batons, wallabies, a petting zoo, cowmilking demonstrations, karaoke, kangaroos, monolithic vegetables, demolition derby crashes, death-defying dirt bikes, Alaska
State Fair birthday bashes, tuff trucks, cowboys, bunny rabbits,
taste tests, the Great Alaska Beard Contest, pirates, booths, lawnmower races, talent shows and rodeos, and... an Elvis impersonator.
Worth checking out.
Alaska State Fair Concert Series
Entertainment acts in the concert series perform at the Borealis Theater on
the Alaska State Fair Grounds in Palmer.Ticket price does not include price
of fair admission. For more information on the performances, go to
www.alaskastatefair.org and click on “Concerts.”
Date: Aug. 30
Time: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $50 reserved seating, $20 general
RAT PACK REVUE
AUG. 25-SEPT. 6
QUEENSRYCHE
Date: Aug. 25
Time: 7 p.m.
CHEVELLE
Date: Aug. 26
Time: 7 p.m.
CRAIG MORGAN
Date: Aug. 27
Time: 7 p.m.
GARRISON KEILLOR
Date: Aug. 28
Time: 3 p.m.
FOGHAT
Date: Aug. 29
Time: 7 p.m.
CHARLIE DANIELS BAND
Date: Aug. 31
Time: 7 p.m.
UNCLE KRACKER
Date: Sept. 1
Time: 7 p.m.
STAIND
Date: Sept. 2
Time: 7 p.m.
GABRIEL IGLESIAS
Date: Sept. 3
Time: 7 p.m.
ONE REPUBLIC
Date: Sept. 4
Time: 6 p.m.
COLBIE CAILLAT
Sept. 5
Time: 3 p.m.
.
e
r
o
m
d
n
a
g
in
in
d
ents, shopping,
ev
times with
family and friends.
it doesn't get any better.
For information on hot
happenings and local discounts
explore anchorage.net/coast
KAYAK ALASKA
ALASKAKAYAKSCHOOL.COM
Life as
a sponge
Absorb knowledge with every
outing, every craft
By Tom Pogson
S
ince becoming an avid paddler in the late 80s and early 90s,
I’ve become aware that the variety of my paddling experiences and skill building in different disciplines of paddling are
more than the sum of their parts. By that I mean that while I was
primarily interested in whitewater solo canoeing then, any time I
spent paddling in my 15-foot fiberglass solo flat-water canoe on
the Chena River in Fairbanks gave me a
different feel for the water and boat, and
increased my skills on both whitewater
and flat water. If I spent one day paddling the flat water boat working on
improving my skills on that day’s trip,
and another day paddling the whitewater canoe, also working on some new
moves, then the next time I paddled any
boat, my skills and confidence had
improved more then expected based on TOM POGSON
www.alaskakayakschool.com
only two days paddling, one day flat
water and one day in whitewater.The variety of the experiences I
gained and skills I’d practiced in each craft were multiplicative,
not additive. Pretty cool.
Engaging in purposeful practice and setting clear, discrete goals
are the cornerstones of any sports coaching or skills improvement
program. Applying this approach to your paddling pays off in
spades and fun as you see your confidence and enjoyment of paddling increase while you achieve greater proficiency.
As a developing paddler, think of yourself as a sponge. Learning
paddling is like soaking up skills by internalizing your paddling
experiences and, above all, the feel of paddling.This learning
occurs as your body develops muscle memory that aims to minimize repetitive-use injuries and provide the most efficient performance of the kayak possible given your skill level and physique.
Paddling skills develop at different rates in different people
even given comparable instruction, equipment and time to learn
and practice. Everyone goes through a similar progression, and
this progression takes time. First, you become aware of the kayak,
and spend a lot of time focused on your boat.Your focus for powering the boat at first is your arms, very weak links in your paddling powertrain. With a little coaching and some time to practice
consciously, your awareness and attention drifts to the paddle
blade and paddling with the large muscle groups of the body, the
torso and legs.This second stage of learning, blade and torso
awareness, begins when you are consciously changing your blade
I practice paddling a variety of craft, and a family outing to the lake is a great
chance to paddle a tandem canoe with the entire clan.
You learn exponentially more quickly by
paddling a variety of craft. If you’re a sea
kayaker, paddle a river kayak. If you’re a river
kayaker, paddle a whitewater canoe.
angle in subtle ways during each stroke to maneuver, and powering your boat with large muscle groups of your body (not your
arms), getting the most out of every motion with little wasted
effort.
It’s not easy to dial in the smooth performance of a honed paddler whose every move shows only the calm and easy assurance
of a professional ballerina.
Don’t for a second forget that you’re a sponge.The amount of
information you could take on board is limited by the amount you
could soak up and retain in one sitting. Once your sponge is full,
you’re not going to soak up any more; your development and
learning has hit a plateau.
You learn exponentially more quickly by paddling a variety of
craft. If you’re a sea kayaker, paddle a river kayak. If you’re a river
kayaker, paddle a whitewater canoe.
Trust the process.To turn this into a bit of confessional, in the
last two weeks I have sea kayaked in open water, tide races and a
pond, paddled a solo whitewater open canoe on a pond and a
class I-II river, taught a whitewater kayak class in a class I-II river,
took my 3-year-old son canoeing in a flat water canoe, tandem
canoed with my wife, border collie and 3-year-old son, and last
night I paddled my slalom decked C-1 in flat water for the first
time in five years. Last night I mostly wanted to see if I could still
kneel in that C-1. Would my contortionist tendencies serve me
well or betray me? Good news, I’m still a C-1 maestro.
Get out and do some paddling, and paddle any craft that’s not
your main discipline. There are canoe and kayak rentals everywhere. Why? It’s a short-cut to paddling in ballerinaville and a
great way to squeeze the sponge dry and improve your paddling
skills. Plus, it’s fun messing around in boats and you can’t have
too much fun, can you?
A L A S K A
R A I L R O A D . C O M
You can only
get there
by train.
Spencer Glacier Float Tours.
Alaska Railroad t 1-800-544-0552 t (907) 265-2494
Chugach Adventure Guides t (907) 783-4354
Tour operated by Chugach Adventure Guides under permit, Chugach National Forest
2011
Seward
Silver
Salmon
Derby
®
August 13-21
Seward, Alaska
www.seward.com
2
PHOTO COURTESY SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2011 SEWARD SILVER SALMON DERBY
Harold Foley, a 30-year derby veteran,
shows off his 18.89-pound silver, which
earned first place in 2010.
No limits on fun
Seward Salmon Derby to take place Aug. 13-21
I
By JUSTIN MATLEY
f you love fishing for coho love winning cash, there’s no better place to be this August 13-21 than in Seward. The Seward
Silver Salmon Derby will be in full swing for nine days, which
includes two weekends. This event is specifically scheduled for
maximum participation, seeing as many
as 7,000 or more anglers who
can’t resist the world-class
sport fishing opportunity, let
alone the chance to pad their
bank account. And there’s
always room for more considering anglers are not limited to
Resurrection Bay itself. There’s a lot of ocean out there, and a
lot of fish.
Topping all the winnings is a $50,000 prize granted to the
capture of rare, tagged fish that will be released into the bay
prior to the beginning of the derby. Prize money for fish turned
in with a validated derby ticket includes the $10,000 awarded
for the heaviest fish. The second-heaviest fish is worth $5,000,
and many other top-20 prizes will be awarded. A drawing for all
ticket purchasers will take place with a $1,000 prize, and
prizes are awarded to the first fish caught, the last, and a mystery fish. Other tagged fish worth lesser amounts will also be
released. There are many ways to be a winner in this event,
which continues to see big turnouts.
According to Cindy Clock, Seward Chamber of Commerce
executive director, it’s not about the prize money, as enticing as
it may be. She believes the event is successful because people
simply love to fish. She said she regards Seward’s derby as an
Alaskan institution. After all, it has carried on for 56 years.
What’s the cost to anglers who participate? A reasonable
$10 for a one-day ticket, or $50 to include the entire event.
Ask Harold Foley if the ticket price is worth it, and you’ll get
a positive reply. Having fished the derby for 30 years — a testament to the value of the event already — Foley caught the
heaviest fish last year and took home the $10,000 prize. That’s
an enormous take on his original investment, and anyone could
be a winner, just the same.
continued on next page
3
The derby accepts shoreline anglers as well, and combined
with the event’s many days, few individuals should have trouble
attending. Little more is required than some fishing tackle, free
time and patience as usual when it comes to fishing. A valid
fishing license is also necessary, and anglers must adhere to
state fishing regulations and limits. There is no limit on fun
though.
As each day winds down, the excitement elevates during
turn-in. Spectators, anglers and volunteers watch and listen
silently as each fish is weighed in on the scale. Especially for a
fish that looks like a large one, and they’re easy to spot, the
crowd eagerly anticipates the results. Cheering will ensue if the
fish takes the lead as the heaviest. And even those anglers who
get bumped down a notch remain hopeful to maintain a top
showing. Only after the derby closes at noon on August 21 will
this year’s winners be decided.
For those who think they’d like to get in on the action, the
best advice the Seward Chamber of Commerce could give is to
plan ahead, make reservations early and don’t forget your derby
ticket.
Clock suggests staying in town the night before and after the
event. Fish leisurely for multiple days and leave time to pursue
other interests in Seward like dining, shopping or gallivanting
around the many trails and scenery.
Derby tickets go on sale beginning August 12, the Friday
night before the start of the event. Find them at Derby
Headquarters, across from the B-Dock fish cleaning station,
between 6-10 p.m. Tickets are not a requirement to fish
Resurrection Bay during derby days, but they are a requirement
2 0 1 1
Seward Silver Salmon Derby®
www.seward.com
ON THE COVER: Melissa Blair hefts a Seward silver during a
successful outing last year.
Photo by Jake Schlapfer
2011 Seward Salmon Derby
official guide produced by
®
ALASKA ADVENTURE MEDIA / COAST MAGAZINE
6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207 • Anchorage, AK 99507
[email protected]
[email protected]
(907) 677-2900
PROJECT MANAGERS:
Cindy Clock, Justin Matley
4
2010 Results
Place
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
6th
7th
8th
9th
10th
Winner
Harold Foley
Chuck Wendt
Alexander Beitter
Irving Carlisle
Richard Byrnes
Liza Kercher
James Shirk
Patricia Huling
Jared Merges
Tom Merculief
From
Weight
Anchorage, AK
18.89
Seward, AK
17.41
Anchorage, AK
16.79
Soldotna, AK
16.64
Wasilla, AK
16.48
Wasilla, AK
16.20
Seward, AK
15.96
Anchorage, AK
15.75
Howard Lake, MN 15.66
Anchorage, AK
15.44
$100
Nick Hunter
Anchorage, AK
8.82
$100
Doug McCoy
Iliamna, AK
9.00
Tagged fish
First fish
7.79 pounds caught by Ashley Hoylman of Palmer, Alaska
Last fish
9.33 pounds caught by Larry Grant of Kenai, Alaska
to enter your fish for judging. Daily tickets are $10, but tickets
for the full event are only $50.
For full event details consult the Seward website,
www.seward.com. Visit the Signature Events page to find the
Silver Salmon Derby and other fantastic events.
5
2011 Fish Finder
Annual data analysis for fishing hotspots
Y
By JUSTIN MATLEY
ou just never know where the winning fish in the Seward
Silver Salmon Derby will surface. In 2010, Harold Foley
reeled in the heaviest coho near the north side of Hive Island. A
winning fish had never been caught in those waters before.
And, its weight was right up there with other historical winners at 18.89 pounds — just a tad heavier than the 2009 winner. This was no fluke. After roughly 30 years of fishing the
derby, Foley had simply earned the right to bring home the big
one.
So, where does this leave us as far as forecasting the prime
locations to catch a winner? Let’s start with the basics.
Based on past results, the chance of catching a winner is
greatly increased by getting out on the water, whether on a
charter where you could focus entirely on fishing and leave the
driving to someone else, or on a personal boat. That said, shoreline anglers could still have a great time and hold out hope. A
winning fish, and the derby record at 22.24 pounds, was once
taken from the harbor mouth by Shirley Baysinger of Cooper
Landing.
That said, the last few years have seen the best results coming from deeper waters.
6
Since anglers are permitted to leave the bay to fish,
unknown locations – those secret spots that no one likes to
share for fear of sacrificing their favorite fishing hole to the
masses – have produced consistent winners. Whether near or
past the mouth of the bay, distant waters seem to be where the
focus lies.
No matter where you fish, the key is to have a plan of attack
when fishing this historical derby.
First, no matter where you are, watch for areas where fish
might be feeding and approach them quietly, perhaps drifting
through the school. These areas could be identified by visually
seeing the school, large groups of gulls on the water, or perhaps other active fishing vessels. Don’t crowd, of course, and
always exercise proper boating safety.
All the while make way for your farthest destination, deep
water; areas outside the bay along the coastline where migrating fish will be forced to bunch together, and near other active
breeding streams and rivers.
Finally, work those areas until you feel the need to move on
and work your way back toward the harbor. Attempt to time
your fishing in such way that you are able to cover as much
area as desired and still have enough time to circle the islands,
JUSTIN MATLEY
2011 Seward Silver Salmon Derby
®
WHEN: Begins at 6 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13.
Finishes at noon on Sunday, Aug. 21
WHAT: One of the largest and oldest fishing derbies in Alaska. Participants compete to catch the heaviest silver salmon or a tagged silver for big prizes. First fish
caught and other awards are also provided. And, there’s a chance to win prizes
and money from daily drawings of weigh-in tickets or a final drawing at the end
of the derby using all tickets sold for the event. Funds raised support the activities of the Seward Chamber of Commerce, as well as education and fish restoration and enhancement in Resurrection Bay.
WHERE: Seward
COST: $50 for the full nine days of the derby or $10 for a single day. A validated
ticket is required, and may be purchased in advance or on the day you go fishing.
CONTACT: Seward Chamber of Commerce, (907) 224-8051 or
[email protected] or www.seward.com. The chamber’s office location is
2001 Seward Highway in Seward. Derby Headquarters is across from the B-Dock
fish cleaning station at the Small Boat Harbor.
TICKET SALES: Derby tickets go on sale Friday night prior to the start of the
event for early birds. See volunteers and chamber staff at Derby Headquarters
(across from the B-Dock fish cleaning station) between 6-10 p.m. to pick yours
up. Early birds, remember that you must have your tickets validated Saturday
morning before you leave the harbor!
On Saturday morning, ticket sales begin at 5:30 a.m. at the headquarters and
sales locations around Seward. Wherever you launch, we’ll be there to be sure
you have a ticket before you go.
Daily tickets are $10. Tickets for the full event are $50. Proceeds from the
coho that are turned in go to support fish enhancement programs benefitting
stocks in Resurrection Bay.
TICKET SALES OUTLETS: Seward Chamber of Commerce, Derby Booth, The Fish
House, Miller’s Landing, Bay Barge Co, J Dock Seafood Co, Aurora Charters and
Alaska Coastal Ventures.
SILVER SALMON DERBY OFFICIAL EVENT WEAR OUTLETS: Sea Bean Café, Once
in a Blue Moose, Kenai Fjords gifts, Major Marine Tours and J Dock Seafood Co.
This 18.99-pound lunker caught by
Harold Foley of Anchorage was the
eventual derby-winning fish.
especially Fox Island, which has produced many winners. Fish
off of Caines Head, another producer, after circling the islands
before returning back to the harbor.
Not that I’d endorse being a copy cat, but for those who
plan to use their own boat, they may want to follow the direction of the charter boats, especially any that might have landed a winning fish during past derbies.
Above all, stay positive, actively fish the day away and fish
as many days as you possibly can. Your chances of winning a
Seward Silver Salmon Derby prize increase with every cast!
STARTING AND ENDING THE DERBY
The official start and end of the derby is announced by the firing of an explosive, gunshot or warning signal.
PRIZES
Derby prizes include $10,000 for the heaviest fish overall and $5,000 for the
second-place coho. Top-20 fish garner rewards, as do a variety of daily winners.
And, of course, there are the tagged fish. Will you pull in to the dock with a
$50,000 tag?
Don’t forget about the prize drawing for $1,000. Anyone who purchases a
Derby ticket is eligible.
ALLOWED FISHING LOCATIONS
All waters, inside and outside of Resurrection Bay, are permissible fishing waters
for derby participants. It is only required that boats begin and end their trip in
Seward. All fishing regulations apply. Be sure to purchase a fishing license and
derby ticket and know the limits for the area you’re fishing in.
7
8
SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
William Kupfer took the first derby’s prize, a 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Kupfer’s winning catch was a silver salmon pulled out of Thumb Cove
weighing 15 pounds, 8 ounces.
More than just a swell time
A
By JUSTIN MATLEY
t 56 years old, the Seward Silver Salmon Derby continues to
draw large numbers of anglers. For many, it’s an annual tradition to be shared with family and friends.They come for fishing,
fun and prizes.Year after year Seward opens the gates to its
world-class fishing, and the community sponsors and volunteers
who make it happen barely blink at the opportunity to support
this time-tested event.
It’s a benefit to them, too. After all, the derby draws thousands
of visitors, many of whom stay in
town for extended periods to
fish as many of the nine derby
days as possible.The economic
impact is crucial to Seward’s
continuation as a vacation destination, and the impact on local fish
populations still coincides with the derby’s
original founder’s purpose.
The inaugural derby was held in 1956, having been conceived
in 1955 by then-Seward Chamber of Commerce president Larry
Urbach, Jim Wellington of Juneau, and Jack Werner of Seward.
They agreed that holding a fishing derby would likely increase
tourism to the small harbor town, as well as improve the salmon
Sponsors have added to an amazing list of prizes for the
participants and increased winnings with up to $10,000
for the heaviest fish and $50,000 for a secret, tagged
fish. Overall, however, the event has remained the same.
population in and around Resurrection Bay. With a loan of $500
from the chamber and a team effort, the event was hatched. One
thousand anglers competed for the grand prize of a 1956
Chevrolet Belair. William Kupfer of Anchorage became the lucky
driver of this new Chevy.
Kupfer’s fish weighed 15.08 pounds — meager in comparison to today’s regular catches in the 18-plus pound range.There
hasn’t been a winning fish weighing fewer than 16 pounds since
1970.This may be due to the simple fact that more than 6,000
anglers now descend on Seward, with numbers nearing 10,000.
More, larger fish are bound to be taken. And, consistent fish populations and larger fish may be due in part to the derby itself.
However it took time for the event to begin raising enough
money so that funds could be dedicated to fish restoration and
stocking.The first Seward Silver Salmon Derby profited only
$150, but the success was measured more by the turnout of
anglers.
9
The derby’s most notable change took place in 2007
when boats were permitted to leave the bay. The rules
state that boats must begin and end their journey in
Seward, but the options for fishing waters are unlimited.
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10
Kupfer’s fish, which consequently set the first record, was
overshadowed the following year with an 18.05-pound whopper taken by Ed Burgen of Seward. Burgen brought the record
home and held it for
nine years until 1968
when Scot McEntinre
of Anchorage pulled in
a lunker at 19.08
pounds. Not another
fish of 19 or more
pounds was turned in
to derby judges until
17 years later, and it
still wasn’t big enough
to beat Burgen’s catch.
However, the following
year saw a recordbreaker at 19.10 that
belonged to Doug
Popwell II of
Anchorage. His record
was busted after six
years, and then another
record was set two
years later by John
Westlund’s astounding
20.59 pound silver.
After a run of eight
Anglers head for the Derby scales during the
years, Shirley Baysinger 2008 contest.
of Cooper Landing surprised all with a near-harbor catch that weighed in at 22.24
pounds in 2002, and her record still stands today after nine
years.
It’s anyone’s guess whether larger fish will be taken. Let’s
just hope the angler who gets one was smart enough to purchase a derby ticket beforehand.
Sponsors have added to an amazing list of prizes for the
participants and increased winnings with up to $10,000 for
the heaviest fish and $50,000 for a secret, tagged fish. Overall,
however, the event has remained the same.
The derby’s most notable change took place in 2007 when
boats were permitted to leave the bay. The rules state that
boats must begin and end their journey in Seward, but the
options for fishing waters are unlimited. This has decreased
crowding in the bay due to the growing number of participants. The rule also allows anglers to reach areas where
schools of fish could be found in greater numbers with larger
fish, according to charter captains. But the fact remains, based
on last year’s winner, that a hefty fish could still be taken at or
near the bay.
Everyone, even the seaside anglers, have a chance to
become part of derby history as the next big winner.
JOHN WOODBURY
HISTORY continued from page 9
JOHN WOODBURY
Sisters Nicki and Shawna Becker proudly
display their silvers caught last year near
Northwestern Fjord aboard the Ranisong.
Y
A
L
P
&
STAY
Win
www.Seward
dsong.com/
coast
• Lodging, dining and adventure!
• Minutes from Exit Glacier with daily guided hikes
• Explore Kenai Fjords National Park
• Your base camp for halibut and salmon fishing
Call 1-800-478-8069
11
12
Lower the risk on the high seas
T
By JUSTIN MATLEY
he Seward Silver Salmon Derby is a family-friendly event providing multiple days to explore and enjoy Resurrection Bay
and Seward’s world-class fishing.You could do this any time, of
course, but only during derby days will you have a chance at winning cash and prizes. It’s at this time and for this reason that more
boaters and anglers embark on Seward’s waters than any other
time of year. Resurrection Bay becomes a bustling and competitive
place, and your level of enjoyment of the derby depends greatly
on exercising proper water and boating safety. Live to fish another
day!
Practicing safety is the sole responsibility of the participants. If
you plan to use your own boat, keep a few things in mind.
According to the United States Coast Guard, boats require someone to be on watch at all times, looking and listening for any danger. As captain, taking your attention away from a moving vessel in
order to fish is not an option. Especially when you’re trolling, take
turns with another skilled driver so the boat is under control at all
times. Better yet, find a good location to anchor and mooch for a
while.The chance of a collision will be greatly minimized.
Maintain safe speeds, and keep more than ample distance from
other boats. If you’re moving in on some heavy action, slow the
vessel, be prepared for maneuvers to avoid collisions, and glide
into your chosen fishing location with ease. Not only will you
avoid collision, you’ll help prevent a school of silvers from scattering due to engine noise and disturbed waters.
Others will likely have the same idea. If you or your neighbors
can’t present their bait effectively or properly and without entanglements, then you’re too close. Evaluate a fishing location from
afar before rushing in. If a less crowded area is available, consider
fishing there instead.The winner might be swimming undisturbed,
ready to swallow your bait.
Hiring a charter is an excellent way to enjoy the day with far
less concern for safety issues while your captain and guide keep a
sharp, trained eye out for any danger or oncoming vessels.
Experience in Resurrection Bay is valuable when it comes to
steering clear of shallow waters and hidden rocks, and making
way for fish action without conflicting with the course of other
vessels.
Powerboat pre-departure checklist
From the Alaska DNR, Office of
Boating Safety
Know your boat. Before each depa
rture, always be sure your boat is
in
good working condition, is prop
erly equipped for emergencies, and
that
passengers are properly briefed.
Avoid inconvenience and potential
danger by taking a few minutes
before departure to check the follo
wing:
Lifejackets for each person (prop
er size and fit, worn, fastened)
Throw-able type IV flotation devic
e, with floating line, attached to
boat
Fire extinguisher(s) fully charg
ed, mounted securely
Sound producing device(s) (air
horn, whistle, bell)
USCG approved visual distress
signals (with current dates)
Navigation lights
Boat registration (properly displ
ayed, certificate onboard)
Proper ventilation, backfire flam
e arrestors installed (inboards)
Drain plugs installed/sea cocks
closed
Marine VHF radio(s) and other
equipment tested
Fuel & oil sufficient for trip -1/3
Out, 1/3 Return, 1/3 Reserve
Vessel loaded properly and all
items secured from shifting
Battery fully charged, secured,
terminals clean and covered
Bilge pump and backup manual
bailing device(s) functional
Tools/parts (spare batteries, fuses
, spark plugs, belts, prop, prop nut
kit)
Anchors (2), each with own chain
and line, one attached to boat
Auxiliary propulsion (spare engi
ne, sail, paddle, oars)
Spare food, drinking water, cloth
ing, shelter (tent or tarp)
First aid and survival kits
Navigation tools. GPS, compass,
charts, maps, tide book
Weather and sea conditions (fore
cast and observation)
Float plan prepared, given to
responsible party
Passenger briefing. Stability rules
, proper clothing, float plan deta
ils,
location of and how to use eme
rgency equipment, how to start
, stop
and steer the boat, handling eme
rgencies
Learn more at www.alaskaboating
safety.org.
If you’re heading out of the bay or into unfamiliar waters, make
plans ahead of time and be sure someone knows where you’re
going in case of an emergency.
13
A silver salmon is outfitted with a
tag that could potentially net an
angler $50,000.
14
JOHN WOODBURY
COAST FILE PHOTO
Fishing from shore is
the most popular
method in the Derby.
No boat?
No problem!
By JUSTIN MATLEY
R
ekindling your childhood memories of learning how to fish
from shore couldn’t be easier. Just pick up a rod and take
that first cast into the majestic waters of Resurrection Bay and
you’ll travel back in time to your fondest memories.And, as
always, the fun doesn’t stop there.You’ll have the chance, just like
everyone else with a derby ticket, to be a big winner.The Seward
Silver Salmon Derby doesn’t require the use of a boat, and there’s
plenty of elbow room to fish the shoreline and coves surrounding Resurrection Bay.
The record-holding silver weighed in at 22.24 pounds and
was caught by Shirley Baysinger of Cooper Landing just off the
boat harbor.That’s pretty close to home, and many other winners
have been reeled in at the mouths of rivers. Big fish are headed
upstream to spawn, so all you need do is present your bait in the
right place at the right time.
Speaking of right places, here’s a sampler of open, shoreline
fishing locations:
All public beach and shoreline
Lowell Point: access from Lowell Point Road from south side of
Downtown Seward
Tonsina Creek: access from Tonsina Creek Trail at Lowell Point
Fourth of July Creek and other locations along Nash Road
Around the Boat Harbor
Caines Head: access via water taxi or hike the Caines Head
Trail from Lowell Point (must account for tides)
Derby Cove and other coves of the bay: access via water taxi
Fox Island dock
Be sure to respect the private property of others and please
clean up your site when finished.Tangled fishing line can be hazardous to shoreline birds. For tips on catching silvers, check out
Coast columnist Chris Batin’s web site, www.alaskaangler.com.
15
ALASKA ADVENTURE MEDIA
Rules & Regulations
Eligibility
Any contestant who complies with the rules is eligible. Contestant must
have an official validated derby ticket prior to the time of the catch and fish
must be caught on the date(s) indicated on the derby ticket.
All contestants must have a current sport fishing license as required by the
Alaska Department of Fish and Wildlife (children under 16 years of age are not
required to possess a sport fishing license; however, adult supervision is suggested). All entrants shall abide by Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations.
Entrants may not proxy fish on behalf of another individual while participating in the Derby. Individuals may not proxy fish on behalf of a derby
entrant.
Seward Chamber of Commerce board members, staff and their immediate
family are ineligible to win tagged fish prizes. Derby officials and all persons
present at tagging are also ineligible to win tagged fish prizes. Only persons
under 16 years of age are eligible for youth category prizes.
Entrants fishing with Non-entrants
Entrants may not share a vessel with non-entrants with the following
exceptions:
1.While onboard a charter vessel engaged in a passenger-for-hire service
with a captain who has pre-registered with the Seward Chamber to act as a
derby witness. It is the responsibility of the boat captain to ensure that derby
participants comply with the rules concerning hooking and landing.Violation
of this rule will disqualify the captain, the boat, and its occupants for the duration of the Derby.
2.While onboard a private vessel provided the non-entrants are not
engaged in any fishing activity related to any species at any time during the
duration of the voyage. Fishing activity includes handling tackle, rods, bait,
gaffs, nets, filleting, possession of fish, etc; and
3. Children under the age of five are considered non-entrants and may be
16
Past derby winners
SEWARD CHAMBER/GREGER WRIGHT
Tickets must be validated for the day the fish is caught for the
fish to be eligible for derby prizes. Validations will be done at ticket sales outlets. Opening-day validations will begin at 5:30 a.m. at
all ticket sale locations. Derby entrants engaged in overnight trips
must have a valid ticket for each day of the voyage, including the
date of return to Resurrection Bay.Tickets sold on board a charter
fishing vessel must be reported by ticket number to the assigned
chamber contact by 9 a.m. on the day sold to be considered
valid.Ticket numbers may be reported by telephone, either live or
by leaving a message, or email.
ly adhere to Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations
applicable to each area.
Every vessel propelled by a motor must have its name or number clearly displayed in conformity with the Alaska State Safe
Boating Law. If the boat is so new that it has not received a name
or number, the boat may be excused if the owner has a receipt to
show that application has been made. Numbers and a temporary
certificate could be obtained at Alaska State Safe Boating office.All
boats must comply with the State of Alaska safety equipment
requirements, particularly a Coast Guard approved lifesaving
device, accessible and ready for use, for each person on board.All
charter boats must comply with U.S. Coast Guard licensing
requirements, have a current City of Seward business license, and
have current protection and indemnity insurance as required by
the City of Seward Harbor Department.All boats must be available
for examination at any time.
Photographs
Tackle
Photographs of contestants become property of the Seward
Chamber of Commerce and may be used for publicity purposes
without compensation.
Silver salmon to be entered in the derby must be caught on
sportfish rod and reel. Entrants may have only one line in the
water at a time. Entrants shall hook and reel up their fish unassisted. Assistance may be provided only to safely bring the fish aboard
the vessel.Violation of these rules will permanently disqualify any
individual on a boat along with all the boat’s occupants, or any
individual on shore.
aboard a participating vessel without a personal entry ticket.
Conditions under which non-entrants may share in the fishing
outing were defined in 2007, including the addition of a children’s
provision.
Validation
Boats
All participating vessels must depart from and return to
Resurrection Bay on the same voyage (overnight trips are eligible
provided they start from and terminate in Resurrection Bay, even if
the vessel docks elsewhere during the course of the multi-day voyage). Beginning in 2007, participating anglers may fish inside or
outside of Resurrection Bay, but because the bag and possession
limits differ inside and outside of the bay, participants must careful-
Judging Standards
All fish must be hooked in the mouth. Only silver salmon
weighing three pounds or more can be entered. Prizes are awardcontinued on page 19
17
18
coordinated by the Seward
Chamber. The derby judges’
Salmon Derby Tide Predictions
ed by weight (heaviest fish
decision(s) and rules of the
August Day Time
Height
Time
Height
Time
Height
Time
Height
receives first-place prize).
Derby herein described
13, Sat 1:26AM LDT 10.9 H
7:42AM LDT
-1.3 L
2:23PM LDT 9.8 H
7:48PM LDT
1.5 L
14, Sun 2:06AM LDT 10.9 H
8:15AM LDT
-1.2 L
2:53PM LDT 10.0 H
8:25PM LDT
1.1 L
Any fish weighed at Derby
shall be considered final and
15, Mon 2:42AM LDT 10.6 H
8:47AM LDT
-0.8 L
3:20PM LDT 10.2 H
9:02PM LDT
0.8 L
16, Tue 3:16AM LDT 10.3 H
9:19AM LDT
-0.3 L
3:46PM LDT 10.2 H
9:38PM LDT
0.8 L
Headquarters are considered
binding upon both partici17, Wed 3:48AM LDT 9.8 H
9:51AM LDT
0.5 L
4:11PM LDT 10.1 H
10:16PM LDT 1.0 L
18, Thu 4:21AM LDT 9.1 H
10:23AM LDT 1.3 L
4:37PM LDT 10.0 H
10:55PM LDT 1.3 L
derby entries and become
pant and sponsor(s), except
19, Fri
4:57AM LDT 8.4 H
10:55AM LDT 2.2 L
5:06PM LDT 9.6 H
11:37PM LDT 1.7 L
the property of the Seward
20, Sat 5:39AM LDT 7.6 H
11:30AM LDT 3.2 L
5:42PM LDT 9.3 H
that the Seward Chamber of
21, Sun 12:24AM LDT 2.2 L
6:43AM LDT
6.8 H
12:09PM LDT 4.0 L
6:33PM LDT
8.9 H
Silver Salmon Derby (all proCommerce Board of
All times are listed in Local Standard Time (LST) or Local Daylight Time (LDT) (when applicable). All heights are in feet
ceeds from fish sales are
Directors has the power to
referenced to Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW).
used to support
make decisions in all matResurrection Bay Fish
ters pertaining to the Derby,
Enhancement efforts and approved programs). Participants may
including eligibility, weights, time limits, fishing limits, right to
buy their fish back for $5 at the time of weigh-in only. Only the
receive awards and all matters relative to participation in and
entrant who actually caught the fish may buy it back. It is illegal in
conduct of the Derby. Judges may disqualify a fish or angler for
Alaska to sell the fish to another party.This law is enforced and vio- any reason whatsoever and decisions of judges on all matters
lators may be subject to a monetary fine by the State of Alaska.
pertaining to this contest shall be final.
Should there be doubt as to the weigh-in official or judge’s
Weigh-in Procedures
decision regarding whether or not an entrant’s fish is a silver
salmon, it will be weighed in and an Alaska Department of Fish
All fish to be weighed and entered must be presented in the
and Game biologist will render the decision. If it is not a silver
round (fresh, whole and uncut) at the judge’s stand at the
salmon, it will be disqualified.
derby headquarters in the Small Boat Harbor. The derby headquarters will be open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily except for
Prizes
the final Sunday (6 a.m. to noon). All weighed fish become
property of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby. An entrant must
With the exception of tagged fish, all prizes will be awarded
show his or her validated ticket at the time of weighing in of
within 10 days of the close of the Derby. Prizes are based on
fish. Entrants must sign the official weigh-in ticket. All fish may
weight of fish at time of entry. Ties for any place will be broken
be opened and checked. All fish weighing 16 pounds or more
by the flip of a coin. The loser will be entitled to the next prize
or those eligible for placement in the top ten heaviest fish will
in line. Those entrants awarded a total of $600 or more from all
be checked by a derby judge. If a snag mark is found on any
awarded categories must complete IRS paperwork prior to
fish, that fish may be entered in the derby for the purposes of
receiving their prize(s). (See “taxes” below.) No merchandise
contributing to the Fish Enhancement Fund, but is not eligible
prizes may be redeemed for cash. No prizes may be
for any prizes. Any evidence of fish tampering will result in
exchanged. Winners need not be present to win, although all
permanent disqualification.
prizes must be claimed in Seward within 30 days after the prize
list is made public by the Seward Chamber of Commerce. Final
Silver Salmon Derby Rules and Decisions
prize list is binding and no other prize lists are valid. All
unclaimed prizes become the property of the Seward Chamber
Judges shall be appointed by the Seward Chamber of
of Commerce.
Commerce and contacted as needed by the chamber employee
on site at Derby Headquarters. Weigh-in officials are volunteers
RULES
continued from page 17
Resurrection Bay derby tides
Alaska's outdoor
adventure magazine.
To advertise
or subscribe:
(907) 677-2900
19
JOHN WOODBURY
The value shown on the prize list is set by the
sponsors. The Seward Chamber of Commerce will not be
responsible if any prize proves to be of less value than what is
shown in the sponsor’s estimates.
Tagged Fish
A total of one tagged fish qualifies for a $50,000 cash
prize. Other tagged prizes are assigned randomly, using a double-blind method. The associated value of each fish tag is not
known until the entrant opens the sealed envelope that corresponds to the tag number caught. All tagged fish caught will be
worth at least $100 if presented to a derby official for verification prior to the start of the derby or through Sept. 30, 2011.
Envelopes for tag numbers caught prior to the derby, caught
by non-entrants, or disqualified from the derby will not be
opened.
Daily Prizes
Various daily prizes are offered for men, women and
youth. Daily prizes are awarded based on weight or randomly,
depending on the conditions associated with the specific
prize. Each fish entered increases a participant’s chances to
win the daily random drawing, which is drawn from the weighin tickets turned in each day.
Once Derby fish are
weighed they are sold to
a local processor, with the
funds going directly into
replenishing fish stocks.
Taxes
Any taxes on cash or other prizes are the sole responsibility
of the individual winner. Certain prize winners will be asked to
provide their tax identification number on an official IRS form.
Failure to do so will result in the Chamber involuntarily withholding 30 percent of the prize amount prior to award as per
federal income tax regulations.
Waiver of Liability
The purchase of a derby ticket constitutes a waiver of liability absolving the Seward Chamber of Commerce, its officers,
directors, staff, and sponsors of any and all damages or liability
which may occur after entering the Derby.
%PEWOEW;MPHPMJI+PEGMIV'VYMWI
Retreat to Resurrection Bay
and overnight at Fox Island
Come to Seward and hop aboard with Kenai Fjords Tours and stay the night at our
exclusive Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge on Fox Island. You’ll never forget this tranquil –
yet adventurous – island getaway in the middle of Resurrection Bay.
• Relax in your private, beachfront cabin
• Hike, kayak and explore
• Dine on Alaska cuisine prepared by
our island chef
• Cruise the Fjords and see wildlife
and glaciers
• Meals included in price
• Cruise upgrades available
Overnight packages start at $299 per person.
Book online at www.KenaiFjordsLodge.com/coast
or call 1-877-777-4053 to reserve your adventure today!
www.KenaiFjordsLodge.com/coast 1-877-777-4053
20
A one
-ofexper a-kind
ience!
3ZIVRMKLX
4EGOEKIW
7XEVXEX
TT
21
D
By JUSTIN MATLEY
erby tickets cost an affordable $10 for one day of fishing or
$50 for the entire event. There is, however, one other small
fee. Any fish that has been turned in for weighing and prizes
will belong to the Seward Chamber of Commerce to be sold to
a local fish processing plant. Or, if an angler chooses on keeping his or her catch, that person has the option to buy the fish
back for $5.
Whether the fish is sold to the angler or the plant, the
money raised helps pay for fish restorations projects in the
area, which in turn means consistent, if not improved, fishing
for anglers. Everyone’s a winner!
Fish buybacks generally amount to near $3,000 for the program, and fish that are sold to the processing plant have generated more than $15,000.
Tracey Thomas and daughter Aislyn Thomas
fish for silvers in Seward on an Aurora Charters boat.
New hatchery to boost fish populations
According to the Seward Chamber of Commerce, Alaska
Department of Fish and Game will arrive in Seward soon with
a fresh batch of smolt, compliments of the new fish hatchery in
Anchorage.
“This is big news for Seward, because the new hatchery will
actually be able to rear smolt to a size that is more conducive
to good survival rate,” said Cindy Clock, executive director of
the Seward Chamber of Commerce.
According to Dan Bosch, area management biologist for
Alaska Department of Fish and Game, biologists will stock
Seward with 240,000 silver salmon smolt and 210,000 king
salmon smolt. Half of the smolt will go into the lagoon while
the other half will be placed at the Lowell Creek Falls. This
large release is scheduled to take place next year.
These smolt will mainly impact the future small boat and
shoreline fishing. That’s great news for shoreline anglers, who
make up a majority of derby entrants. If all goes according to
plan, anglers should experience a noticeable increase in fish
numbers and more active beach, shallow water and river
mouth fishing.
22
The William Jack Hernandez Hatchery is located on Ship
Creek in Anchorage. Species being raised include rainbow trout,
king and coho salmon, arctic char, grayling and lake trout. The
controlled water temperatures of the facility aid in fish growth,
producing release-able fish within a year as opposed to taking
multiple years. And, larger fish are more likely to survive their
release.
They’ll be more likely to wind up on the end of angler’s
lines, on the derby scales, and eventually on the dinner table.
MELISSA SAUNDERS
Turning silvers into gold
JUSTIN MATLEY
Breath-taking scenery, a myriad
of activities, entertainment and
good eats — and world-class fishing — combine to make Seward
one of Alaska’s top destinations.
B
By JUSTIN MATLEY
e sure to plan a little shore leave during your visit. Derby
days last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, and only until
noon on the final day on Aug. 21. That leaves plenty of time to
enjoy Seward’s other fine activities.
If you’re into outdoor pursuits like hiking, walks on the
beach and wildlife viewing and photography, then your hotel
room should remain empty just a bit longer each day. And for
those looking for bars and restaurants, shopping and galleries,
or perhaps the museum or other educational opportunities,
Seward has that, too.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, be sure to
stop by the Seward Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center
office on the west side of Seward Highway, just prior to
Safeway. Or, visit Seward’s website, www.seward.com.
Eateries
Everything a parched palate could desire, from fresh seafood
to Greek cuisine, Asian and sweet treats, could be found in
Seward. There’s fine dining or budget-minded family restaurants,
some with spectacular views of the water and harbor and
those mixed in among the quaint downtown setting.
ALASKA NELLIE’S ROADHOUSE, 203 Fourth Avenue; (907) 224-
4782
JUSTIN MATLEY
Seward: Alaska starts here
Seward’s eateries boast
a diverse menu.
APOLLO RESTAURANT is the local’s choice for pizza and
Mediterranean inspired dishes. 229 Fourth Avenue; (907) 2243092
BAKERY AT THE HARBOR and HARBOR STREET CREAMERY always
have long lines for pastries in the morning and ice-cream for
dessert. 1215 Fourth Avenue; (907) 224-6091
BREEZE INN MOTEL is located across from the small boat harbor and has a full, American-style menu. 303 North Harbor
Street; (907) 224-5237
23
JUSTIN MATLEY
Experienced kayakers find a treasure of vistas
during an outing on Resurrection Bay.
CHINOOK’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT boasts excellent harbor
views and was recently renovated. 1404 Fourth Avenue; 907224-2207
EXIT GLACIER SALMON BAKE AND CABINS has generous portions
of fresh Alaskan halibut, salmon, king crab and a variety of other
seafood delights with steaks, burgers homemade desserts. 1/4
Mile Exit Glacier Road; (907) 224-2204
CHRISTO’S PALACE is located downtown directly across from
the street from the SeaLife Center. 133 4th Avenue
SEWARD SUBWAY is conveniently located at 303 South Harbor
Road for early morning breakfasts and delicious lunch sandwiches.
PEKING PALACE is located downtown within walking distance
of most hotels. Dine in or carry out. 338 4th Avenue; (907)2245444
RAILWAY CANTINA, when you really need a taco. 1401 Fourth
Avenue; (907) 224-8226
RAY’S WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL is a great lunch and dinner
hangout with quick access right from the small boat harbor. It
overlooks the harbor and has a full menu and bar. 1316 Fourth
Avenue; (907) 224-5606
RESURRECT ART COFFEE HOUSE exhibits Alaskan coffee roasters
and artists. 320 Third Avenue; (907) 224-716
RESURRECTION ROADHOUSE RESTAURANT has a relaxed atmosphere with gourmet meals and drinks and is located at the
Seward Windsong Lodge. Mile 0.7 Exit Glacier/Herman Leirer
Road; (907) 224-7116
MS. GENE’S PLACE features gourmet dining in the historic
Hotel Seward. 221 5th Avenue
THE SEA BEAN is a Wi-Fi ready cafe housed in a historic bank
24
building. 225 4th Avenue; (907) 224-6623
Shops
If you don’t catch a winning fish during the derby, you still
don’t have to return home without a trophy. Find yourself a
great shirt or some Seward memorabilia to remember your
vacation at our seaside destination.
TRUE VALUE AND THE FISH HOUSE is the one-stop shop for all the
fishing tackle and clothing anglers need. 1301 Fourth Avenue;
(907) 244-3674 or (907) 244-8286
URBACH’S started selling Alaskan inspired clothing in 1915
and still continues under family management. 218 Fourth
Avenue; (907) 224-3088
THE RANTING RAVEN sells artwork and novelties out of the
front and fresh coffee out the back. 224 Fourth Avenue; (907)
224-2228 or www.trailriver.com
CAPTAIN JACK’S SEAFOOD MARKET offers tantalizing choices at
this new market, 303 South Harbor Street
Culture
Established in 1903, Seward is also home to some of the
most advanced marine research in the nation. The museums
here reflect this rich history making it easily accessible for the
curious.
KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK VISITORS CENTER is the place to
start for information about the park and its activities. 1212
25
JUSTIN MATLEY
A puffin stretches its
wings at the Alaska Sea
Life Center in Seward.
ACTIVITIES
Fourth Avenue; (907) 224-7500
SEWARD MUSEUM displays information covering the whole
history of the town. 336 Third Avenue.; (907) 224-3902
ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER combines hands-on learning with cutting-edge research making this a must stop. If Alaska starts with
the sea, the center is aptly located at Mile Zero of the Seward
Highway; (800) 224-6300 or www.alaskasealife.org
Adventures
Seward offers a host of activities other than fishing.All the
great Alaska diversions are here, from kayaking the fjords to mushing a dog team.
KENAI FJORDS TOURS sends boatloads of people out to see all
aspects of the national park or to overnight visits to Fox Island for
a combination vacation. 1304 Fourth Avenue; (888) 478-3346 or
www.kenaifjords.com
MAJOR MARINE TOURS and a Park Ranger will be your guides to
the Kenai Fjords National Park. 1302 B 4th Avenue; 800-764-7300
or www.majormarine.com
ADVENTURE SIXTY NORTH is now providing heli kayaking, hiking
and snowshoeing year round as well as flightseeing and kayak and
canoe rentals in Seward and at Trail Lake.They also have gear
rentals and guided tours. www.adventure60.com; (907) 224-2600
SUNNY COVE SEA KAYAKING CO. runs every type and length of sea
kayaking excursions. Located in front of D-Dock; (800) 770-9119
or www.sunnycove.com
EXIT GLACIER is a mildly challenging15-minute walk from the
parking lot. Mile 8.6 Exit Glacier Road; (907) 224-7500
BARDY’S TRAIL RIDES put you on horseback to discover the
shores of Resurrection Bay. (907) 224-7863 or www.sewardhorses.com
SEAVEY’S IDIDARIDE SLED DOG TOURS Home of the 2004 Iditarod
Champion Mitch Seavey and 2011 Yukon Quest Champion Dallas
Seavey! 907-224-8607 or www.ididaride.com
SEWARD HELICOPTER & DOG SLED TOURS Scenic flights, Glacier landings, Bear Glacier Tours. Office located at Seward Airport, or they
will pick you up! 907-362-HELI or www.sewardhelicopters.com
CAINES HEAD STATE RECREATION AREA has miles of maintained
trails overlooking the bay. Be aware of tides, as some portions of
the trail require walking on the shore when the tide is low.
www.alaskastateparks.org or (907) 269-8400
LOWELL POINT, where the trek to Caines Head begins, is itself a
26
JUSTIN MATLEY
There is plenty to do in and around Seward once the
boats return to harbor. A local favorite is the hike out to
Caines Head State Recreational Area, but it is a hike that
must be planned around the tides.
27
ACTIVITIES
Sea lions, a common sight
during a marine day cruise,
bask on a haul-out rock near
Resurrection Bay.
fine place to get out and stay out. Seward’s best beach can be
found there with a unique rock feature set in the tide waters near
a cliff. Find muscles, hermit crabs, sea anemones, or some playful
sea otters.The beach is solid black, unique to many beaches in the
lower 48. Follow Lowell Point Rd.
Just outside of town on Seward Highway you’ll find a road sign
that directs traffic to destinations such as LOST LAKE and the Lost
Lake trail, or BEAR LAKE which is a much easier journey. Both will
be enjoyable, but Lost Lake is regarded as one of the best hikes in
the region by many locals.
Follow Nash Road to the other side of the bay to hike up
Mount Alice, or head on up Mount Marathon right from downtown Seward.Ask any local about this particular mountain and
you’ll hear a wealth of knowledge regarding the world-famous
Mount Marathon Race.
Resources
If you have a hook in your finger or just some herring on your
shirt, this list should point you in the right direction.
SEWARD CHAMBER OR COMMERCE is the best source for Derby —
and Seward — information. 2001 Seward Highway; (907) 224-8051
or www.seward.com
SEWARD SENIOR CENTER has a wealth of knowledge about different events in Seward. 336 Third Avenue; (907) 224-5604
PROVIDENCE SEWARD MEDICAL CENTER sees more than its fair share
of snagged anglers. 417 First Avenue; (907) 224-3181 or (907) 2245205
28
Lodging and Camping
Don’t live in Seward? Not to worry, just check out a few of
these places to call home during the derby.
MILLER’S LANDING runs camping, cabins, fishing, and kayak trips
just south of Seward. 13880 Beach Drive, Lowell Point; (907) 2245739 or www.millerslandingak.com
HOTEL EDGEWATER is Seward’s premium hotel overlooking the
bay. 200 Fifth Avenue; (907) 224-2700 or
www.hoteledgewater.com
HOTEL SEWARD provides newly, refurbished rooms and historical
JUSTIN MATLEY
29
JOHN WOODBURY
A day-cruise vessel motors
past a rock spire near the
mouth of Resurrection Bay.
ACTIVITIES
ones too. Enjoy their unique atmosphere with a collection of wildlife
mounts and bar/eatery. 221 Fifth Avenue; (907) 224-8001
SEWARD WATERFRONT PARK offers full and half hook-ups for RVs and a
separate tent area all within walking of the marina and downtown. (907)
224-4055
STONEY CREEK RV PARK is a luxury park in the woods just outside
Seward. 13670 Leslie Place; (907) 224-6465 or
www.stoneycreekrvpark.com
MOBY DICK HOSTEL is probably the cheapest of the bunch with dormstyle rooms and bunks, or a private room.All share a common area and
kitchen and the location is just a walk away from downtown. 432 Third
Avenue; (907) 224-7072 or www.mobydickhostel.com
Charter boats and water taxis
If you don’t have a boat or are looking for a guided trip or tour,
Seward has many different options to choose from.
ALASKA COASTAL VENTURES has a 24-year history of taking anglers out
fishing. 1412 4th Ave Suite D; 877-924-4347 or www.puffincharters.com
LESEA CHARTERS is an Alaska family owned sport fishing service; Slip J–
9 Seward Boat Harbor 907-344-4388 or www.leseacharters.com
ALASKA SALTWATER CHARTERS is run by who locals say is the salmon
expert, Dianne Dubuc. (907) 224-7254 or www.aksaltwatercharters.com
AURORA CHARTERS is a full-service fishing and wildlife tour company.
Seward Small Boat Harbor; (907) 224-3968 or www.auroracharters.com
J DOCK CHARTERS will find a charter for you! 1408 4th Ave; 907-2247272 or www.jdockseafood.com
2011
The best way to get to the Alaska State Fair is on the
Alaska Railroad. Leave the driving to us and the
traffic jams behind.
Fridays, August 26 & September 2
Saturdays, August 27 & September 3
Sundays, August 28 & September 4
All fares are round trip and include admission to
the Alaska State Fair.
Alaska State
Fair Train
30
Adults (13-64) $54
Seniors (65+) $47
Children (6-12) $27
Children (5 and under) $22
Call now to book at 265-2494 or 1-800-544-0552.
Visit us at AlaskaRailroad.com or the
Anchorage Depot at 411 W. 1st Ave.
Payment is due at time of booking. All sales are final.
All tickets are sold at the round-trip rate.
31
THE ALASKA ANGLER
CHRS BATIN
Devil fish
There’s much to like
about Interior pike
By Christopher Batin
I
’ve been remiss in my angling behavior. I’ve fallen by the wayside
in my pursuit of the “good fish” — lake trout, rainbows and
grayling.These are Alaska angel fish, gossamer to the touch, and in
need of light rods, dainty flies and a delicate presentation.
But I’ve fallen for the ways of the devil fish. Most anglers know
him by sight: the chomp that rocks your sockets, a bite that won’t
let go and that ever-present dastardly grin and evil stare that penetrates to your very core.
How could anyone resist?
Let the elitist anglers pursue the hoity-toity trout and I’ll play
with the devil because frankly, he’s more
fun. It’s the rock ’n roll fishing adventure
that offers non-stop action, hootin, hollerin’, and sometimes cussin’ for as long as
you could play the game with its mediumheavy rods, file-sharpened hooks, and a 20pound backpack full of lures and tackle.
Northern pike fishing in interior Alaska
is all this and more.
Interior pike get big and fat from gorging on humpback whitefish, and grow to
Christopher BATIN
sizes not often found in the pike lakes of
southcentral Alaska. Large numbers of
these pike could be found near Fairbanks, which is my choice for a
three-day, fly-out fishing adventure.
Rick Gold of Marina Air has been flying out pike anglers from
Fairbanks for several decades. A former commercial airline transport pilot, Gold switched to the air charter business, catering to the
everyday angler who couldn’t afford big-money fishing trips. He
developed a sustainable fly-in fishing and hunting market over the
years, and has numerous cabins he owns or rents throughout
prime pike country in Alaska’s Interior.
On a recent trip, we loaded the plane and flew for 30 minutes
before landing on a large lake in the Minto Flats area.
“The pike fishing is good after the whitefish migrate into Minto
Flats from the main river systems,” Gold said.
It takes about a day to figure out the pike holding areas and
feeding times. But we only fished the north side of the lake near
our cabin, and didn’t bother fishing the other sections.The fishing
was that good.
My buddies and I had no problem catching fish from 8 a.m.
through 8 p.m., and I suspect the fishing would be good at all
hours, as it stays light enough in Fairbanks to fish around the clock
for a good portion of the summer.
But after 12 hours on the water, I was falling asleep at the reel
handle.A man has to choose his battles, and the pike would be
there the next morning. Playing with the devil is fun, but exhausting.
A few hours after the sun rounded its way to the east, my pile of
This northern pike has
hit soft plastic bait.
mangled PowerBaits looked as though they had been through a
meat grinder.With an average of 700 teeth in a typical northern
pike, it’s no wonder these lures looked the way they did.
I spent a few minutes examining the lacerations. It was obvious
to me why many of the smaller pike I’d observed in the shallows
had red scars and marks gouged into their sides, behind their heads,
and across their tails.
I enjoyed walking in the shallows. I’d see 32-inch-plus fish hiding near logs, waiting to ambush anything that moved.Then I’d toss
out a topwater plug.Twitch, twitch.The water churned to a boil as
a husky-shouldered northern pike charged the bait and exploded
out of the water with the fury of an orca eating a seal. Neither a
video game nor a Hollywood special effect could create such heartskipping excitement. Reality in the Alaska outdoors trumps entertainment fantasy every time.
Why grown men enjoy seeing big pike destroy plugs and baits
could be debated for hours, with no clear conclusion. Suffice it to
say, out of all the Alaska sight-fishing events — everything from dry
fly fishing for trout and grayling to wogging for salmon—none
could compare to watching Interior northerns trying to kill and
devour a bait or fly. I have always loved it, and I will always love it:
the ultimate in fishing excitement thanks to the pure, downright
meanness of the fish. Other fish strike a lure. Pike obliterate it,
maim it, masticate it and maim it again. God save me, I love it so.
But don’t take my word for it, and don’t offer me any trout salvation. I don’t want it. I’m happy living with the devil and plan to
visit him as much as time and money will allow.
My advice is simple: Listen to that dark, inner voice and make
the drive to Fairbanks this weekend.The pike fishing is good all
summer, and even better in the fall. But I warn you.Take plenty of
lures and wire leaders, and be prepared to get your boat’s transom
thrashed.You can’t hide from the devil and it is foolhardy to do so.
Why? Because we all know the truth.With such aggressiveness and
non-stop action, even the most elite trout angler secretly wishes to
fall into temptation.
And the devil fish is always happy and willing to oblige.
If You Go…
Rick Gold charges $180 per person for a one-day flyout, or $300
per person with a two-person minimum for a three-day, two-night
stay, which includes a boat, motor, gas and cabin.This is one of the
best pike fishing deals in Alaska. Check out his website
(www.akpikefishing.com) for a complete gear list.We picked up
our groceries at the Fairbanks Fred Meyer, and fishing tackle at
Sportsman’s Warehouse.
We found mosquito coils to come in handy, as well as lots of
lures and leaders, as the pike devastated them.
Berkley Powerbaits rigged onto jigheads were the preferred
lures of choice, but the pike hit most anything, with the smaller fish
going after topwaters. Occasionally the larger fish would hit a topwater, but most of the larger fish were in water six to 12 feet deep,
down to 20, and wouldn’t rise to the surface. Deep water and weed
beds required Northland jigs or gold Johnson Silver Minnow
spoons tipped with Gulp! baits. In mid-day, metallic finish lures
worked best.The water is very clear, and we could see strikes take
place at the boat as well as down near bottom.We found a wire
mouth spreader and long-nose needle nose pliers invaluable for
safely removing deeply swallowed lures.
Since Gold usually departs at 8 a.m., I overnighted in Fairbanks. I
enjoyed staying at the Wedgewood Resort, where for $99, I enjoyed
a mini-suite with kitchen, living room and TV in a quiet setting near
the Alaska Bird Observatory.That’s a deal you can’t refuse in midsummer with many rooms going for $160-plus per night.
After your return to town, make it a point to eat at Siam Square,
An acrobatic northern pike takes to the
air for this angler on a fly-out trip to
Minto Flats area outside Fairbanks.
a Thai restaurant on College Road that has the best steak and peppercorn gravy in Alaska. Have Chef Eddie cook it for you, with the
accompanied vegetables and potatoes or any of the other dishes. I
consider his restaurant among the best in town. If you have some
time to kill, stop in to the Morris Thompson Visitor’s Center and
check out the many performances going on throughout the summer months.
Contact Rick Gold at Marina Air, www.akpikefishing.com or the
Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau,
www.explorefairbanks.com.
CHRS BATIN
THE ALASKA ANGLER
TRAILSIDE GOURMET
MARK BLY
Roughing
it easy
Experience the deep outdoors
in comfort and luxury
By Mark Bly
www.trailsidegourmet.com
R
esurrection Bay is yours for the taking. Enjoy what I like to call, roughing it easy. But to be honest, you really
won’t be roughing it at all. Have you ever
dreamt of your own private beach?
Gourmet meals and a cabin on the shore?
That dream is Fox Island and Kenai
Mark BLY
Fjords Wilderness Lodge.
Just a scant 12 miles from Seward, this
is one well-kept secret.Take a day off from the derby or just treat
yourself and a loved one to a summer retreat that you’ll talk
about for years to come.You owe it to yourself to relax.
Take a stroll on the
beach before or after
your elegant dinner.
Your journey begins with free parking in Seward and a complementary shuttle to the harbor. Beginning at E Dock you’ll be
pampered and catered.Then, gliding out of the harbor on a highspeed vessel, reality slips away at 26 knots as your day instantly
transforms into an adventure.
Having arrived at Fox Island, expect a personal greeting as
your bags are ported to your Shangri-La. At the main lodge, the
world-famous salmon and prime rib all-you-can-eat buffet is
served.There are complementary beverages, and beer and wine
are available for a very reasonable price.
After lunch, an escort guides you down the beach to your
oceanfront cabin. Eight comfortable, non-smoking cabins provide
one double and one twin-sized bed, a private bathroom with
shower, table and chairs, propane heater, solar-powered lighting,
and a battery-operated alarm clock.There are no televisions or
radios to interrupt your peaceful getaway. I did have cell service,
but turned the darned thing off.
Aside from simply staring at the bay in tranquility, there are
multiple ways to enjoy the remainder of your stay. Sea kayaking
tours are available, and there are some hiking trails or the expansive beach to walk. In the afternoon you can stroll with a
National Park Service ranger for an interpretative tour of the
island ecosystem.
Dinner. My goodness, what a treat. Served at 6 p.m. in your
exclusive lodge, the meal is a thing to behold. During my stay I
supped with eight other people, a very pleasant experience.
Conversation was light and upbeat as we discussed the day’s
adventures.The service was second-to-none.The food, awesome.
Under the expert care of executive chef Brad Pryor, the food
before me was a shining jewel in the Fox Island crown. A delicious salad was followed by perfectly prepared halibut and
shrimp, accentuated with mango chutney. Beautifully presented,
chef Pryor’s dishes walked a delicate tight rope of flavors. It was
a pleasure to all the senses.
Add a varied selection of handpicked wines at a very reasonable expense and you have yourself a very pleasing experience.
For dessert, strawberry shortcake made from scratch took the
MARK BLY
TRAILSIDE GOURMET
Halibut and shrimp, accentuated
with mango chutney.
meal over the top.
In the afterglow of dinner, the view is sedating.The rhythmic
sound of the waves lapping at the flat stone shore soothes and
calms.The staff is more than happy to light a fire in the lodge or
on the beach.
In the morning I awoke refreshed and relaxed. Juice and hot
After you put that record-setting silver on ice head over to the
finest dining in Seward, the Resurrection Roadhouse. Located on
Exit Glacier Road at The Windsong Lodge, this place is tops in my
book.
Executive chef Erik Slater has some new surprises on this summer’s menu.
Start with some bacon-wrapped dates. Goat cheese,
Gorgonzola, and arugula with a balsamic reduction are also a
delight. And you’ll devour the new, all-natural, Duroc Pork Shank
in a red wine tomato reduction with fennel, the Osso Bucco. It is
fall-off-the-bone good and served with Yukon mashed potatoes
and perfectly prepared asparagus. I give this my highest recommendation.
But, now comes the dilemma. With all the dishes on the menu
being of such good quality, it is hard to decide what to order. I
recommend dining with others and sampling each other’s plates.
If you have not yet tried chef Slater’s spot prawns with lemon
polenta and a white wine sauce, then you, my friend, have not
given yourself enough pleasure in life. You have to try this dish.
It’s a meal you’ll not soon forget.
The Resurrection Roadhouse proudly serves only wild and sustainably caught Alaskan king crab, salmon, halibut, cod and
prawns. Also, for those content with pizza and beer, the
Resurrection Roadhouse has that, too. Gourmet, thin-crust pizzas
MAR K BLY
Award winning Resurrection
Roadhouse
are served New York style, piled
Sample the Osso Bucco,
high with the freshest ingredients.
an all-natural pork shank
And by the way, let me be the first to
in a red wine tomato
congratulate Chef Erik Slater and the entire reduction with fennel.
staff at the Resurrection Roadhouse, winners of the Wine Spectator Magazine 2011 Award of Excellence.
Congratulations! A job well done.
Find menus, hours and reservation information at
www.sewardwindsong.com/resurrection-roadhouse.html.
coffee awaited and a breakfast of banana pancakes and sausage
was served with a smile.
Each overnight is paired with a cruise the following day. As
you depart the dock for your new adventure, a seamless handoff
from shore to ship ensures your day is a success. At this point
you feel like a rock star.The people already on the vessel clamor
around you, filling the air with questions about your night’s stay
on the island. As a helpful member of the crew escorts you to
your reserved seating, all you can do is smile and think,“I will go
back.”
The five-hour cruise is something that everyone should experience. No matter how long you’ve lived in Alaska, do it at least
once.
I spotted more than six humpback whales, three orca, dozens
of porpoise, too many otters to count, and Stellar sea lions galore.
Birds, birds and more birds filled the scene. It really is amazing
the amount of activity that animals pack into our short-but-glorious summers.These boats get in close; sometimes you feel you
could reach out and touch the vertical cliffs rising majestically
before you.
I have yet to tire of watching a glacier calve, hearing the popping and snapping followed by the rush of ice as it crashes into
the water. I stood in awe of this humbling spectacle. It was a fine
day at sea.
All the while staff was attentive, and the captain’s narration of
MARK BLY
GOURMET continued from page 54
Enjoy a personal introduction
to Northwestern Glacier.
the events informative and comical.
For lunch a tasty chicken Cesar salad wrap was served. It was
just the right meal for the fast-paced day.The real surprise surfaced on the way back to Seward. Delicious, warm cookies
where served to all.The glow of the previous two days of events
and the warm cookie left me happy and smiling.
Fox Island and Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, combined with
a tour of Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay, provide affordable
luxury and adventure from beginning to end, and it’s right in
your back yard! If a trip like this is not on your “to do” list, it
should be.
Learn more at www.kenaifjordslodge.com.
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Explore the calm waters and
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Expanded route through beautiful Esther Passage
• View sea lion and bird rookeries, sea otters and whales
• Most luxurious, high-speed catamaran in Alaska
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DEPARTS DAILY FROM WHITTIER
PLUS TAXES & FEES
VALID FOR 2011 SEASON
Book and ticket at www.26glaciers.com
(800) 544-0529 • (907) 276-8023 • 519 West 4th Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501
www.AKontheGO.com
By Erin Kirkland
N
o other state offers so many opportunities for harvesting
Mother Nature’s goodness. From basket to table,Alaska is a
veritable market of wholesome products upon which families
have been feasting for thousands of years.
Our favorite food from the land, though,
calls for crawling the mountainsides in
search of a favorite end-of-summer ritual
that means not only food for a cold winter ahead, but wholesome family togetherness as well.
That’s right. It’s berry time.
It’s easy to find a berry patch in southcentral Alaska.The hard part might be
leaving enough in the bucket for the myrErin KIRKLAND
iad recipes of jams, jellies, syrups and
other sweet treats made from their bounty.
Kids love to pick berries, be they low-growing crowberries
found along many alpine slopes, or plump blueberries familiar
enough to most children but possessing a tart, crisp taste not
Owen Kirkland rings his
bear bell while picking
berries at Arctic Valley.
found in any commercial fruit.There’s nothing like a late summer
afternoon spent canvassing the slopes of a nearby mountain with
those near and dear, picking berries as fast as you can and listening to the shouts and laughter of other families doing the same.
ERIN KIRKLAND
Alaska’s berry bonanza
brings family together
APRES
Squander not!
A piece from Lorri Dav
is’ show,
“On the Water,” openin
g at
Snow City Café on Aug.
5.
August last chance
for a warm art walk
By Mary Lochner
ace it, dear readers, this is the last month of summer. After
August is spent, our long, warm days are gone. Eclipsed.
Vanished.
But hopefully not squandered.
I know you’re all thinking about how best to spend the final
days of this year’s summer season to ensure that it’s spent well.
You’re probably thinking hikes, barbecues, taking the kids to the lake.
But allow me, if you will, to interject
a suggestion.
Unless you’ve been totally remiss,
you’ve probably already done quite a bit
of outdoorsy type stuff. But it’s just possible you’re one of those scoundrels —
not a philistine, exactly, but not a devotee of the local arts scene, either — who
managed to miss attending the First
MaryLOCHNER
Friday Art Walks this summer.
OK, some of you are philistines (or,
more optimistically, soon-to-be local arts enthusiasts). I know
this because some of you are asking yourselves the very question I occasionally hear when discussing this topic, and the
question is:“What is the First Friday Art Walk?”
The First Friday Art Walk is a wonderful monthly event held
on the first Friday of every month, when all the art galleries and
other art venues host the openings for shows of new art on the
same evening. This is done so that you, the art patron, and your
gaggle of friends might hop from one art opening to the other
while munching on free food and either truly enjoying the
more inspiring works or else pretending, or not pretending, to
August event highlights
Two big music festivals happening early this month: Talkeetna
Bluegrass and Music Festival, and the Salmonstock music festival
in Ninilchik. Both run Aug. 5-7. It’s the last year of the Talkeetna
Bluegrass according to its organizers. And, it’s the first year of
Salmonstock, a concert with some major national acts as well as
tons of local bands — everyone from Pumyua to The Whipsaws.
The third weekend in August is a big one, with three major
shows in a row. Dark Star Orchestra plays the Beartooth
Theatrepub on Aug. 18; Silverstein plays Club Millennium on Aug.
19, and Chilkoot Charlie’s on Aug. 20; and Humpy’s Alehouse
hosts a Rockin’ the Lot concert on Aug. 20.
August live music
TALKEETNA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Aug. 5-7 • Talkeetna
LOR RI DAV IS
F
others that you know something about
art.
Either way it’s a good time had by all.
And the most pleasant time to engage in this extraordinary
event is in the summer time — did I mention the First Friday
Art Walk involves walking? In the affectionately gentle warm
summer air this month; in the sadistically biting cold winter air
the next.
So save the date: Aug. 5 is absolutely the last summer day of
this year to enjoy a soul-inspiring stroll through a First Friday
Art Walk without shivering off your behind.
I don’t know about you, but my soul starts shriveling when I
start shivering.
“But how do I know where to go?” you ask.
Let’s start with nearly naked, shall we? That’s always a
crowd-pleaser.
At OCTOPUS INK, Homer fiber artist Kari Multz (the artist
behind The Fringe designer clothing) is proffering “understatements,” a retro-inspired lingerie show replete with live models,
and live music by Carlyle Watt and the Super Saturated Sugar
Strings.
SALMONSTOCK
Aug. 5-7
Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds in Ninilchik
DARK STAR ORCHESTRA
Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.)
Bear Tooth Theatre Pub
SILVERSTEIN
Aug. 19 and 20, at 7 p.m. both nights
Club Millennium the first night, and Chilkoot Charlie’s the second
ROCKIN’ THE LOT
Aug. 20 at 7 p.m.
Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse
APRES
Multz is known for incorporating unconventional fabrics
and unique textures into her work. For the “understatements”
show, she’ll be using silks and laces, but if that sounds orthodox
to you, think again.
“Most of the fabric will be harvested from men’s ties and
vintage kimonos,” Multz said,“with some scarves, curtains and
hankies thrown in.”
Fashion serves a more serious cause on First Friday at
INTERNATIONAL GALLERY OF CONTEMPORARY ART.“Fashion STATEMENT: Native artists against Pebble Mine,” shows there in the
Guest Room. Fifteen Native artists were asked to create works
of art that expresses their opposition to Pebble’s proposal to
“place North America’s largest open-pit mine at the spawning
grounds of the last remaining wild sockeye salmon streams,”
according to a statement by curator Anna Hoover.
The works have been printed on t-shirts, which will be displayed at the show and also sold to raise funds to protect
Bristol Bay salmon.
Speaking of Alaskan waters, Lorri Davis’ show at SNOW CITY
CAFÉ is also one you’ll want to check out. “On the Water” is a
series of oil paintings depicting people and landscapes, which
have Alaska bodies of water in the composition. Davis’ paintings
provide a subtly refreshing perspective of Alaskan landscapes.
They are simple, honest and unassuming. They make no
attempt to absorb the grandeur of Alaska, or present it in iconic
terms. Instead, they show glimpses of Alaska that are more like
the scenes that inhabit the memories of ordinary Alaskans: the
little patches of beauty you see when you glance up every so
often during a hike; your boat before you take it out fishing;
your son carrying a fresh catch on
the shore; your spouse driving off
in four-wheeler.
Finally,“Kitoi to Sitkalidak,” a
show by Aluutiq sisters Lena
Amason and Anna Nelson, is
showing at the ALASKA NATIVE
ARTS FOUNDATION GALLERY. Kitoi is
a fishing area at the north end of
Kodiak Island where Nelson
lives. Sitkalidak is an island east
of Old Harbor on Kodiak Island,
which is where Amason lives.
Nelson’s photography and
Amason’s paintings are inspired
by subsistence living at those
A piece by Lena Amason
places.
from the
COU RTES Y OF ALA SKA
NAT IVE ART S FOU NDA
TION
APRES continued from page 58
show “Kitoi to Sitkalidak,
” opening at the Alaska Native
Arts
Other First Friday openings that Foundation Gallery on Aug
. 5.
are worth a visit include:
• IGCA, MAIN GALLERIES: Installation and other works by Sonya
Kelliher-Combs, as well as prints by students from a workshop led
by the artist
• VIRTU: Giclee’s of V Rae’s “Fur, Fin and Feathers” collection.
• ARTIQUE: Oil paintings of Alaska landscapes by Steven Gordon.
CATHRYN POSEY
tions.
ttrac
a
d
n
a
s
k
r
a
p
events,
d friends.
For a sugar shock,
check out these
sweet spots
times with family an
it doesnt' get any better.
By Jack Bonney
Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau
L
ife is uncertain, eat dessert first: Words to live by. So put aside
that salad and live la dolce vita in Anchorage with some of
city’s best stops for a sweet tooth.
There’s no reason to wait until afternoon for the first jolt;
Kobuk Coffee’s baked goods are made fresh daily, so swing in
during the morning and get them at their best.Their old fashioned cake doughnuts pair irresistibly with a cup of java or a tall
glass of milk and are a perfect way to start the day with a sugary
buzz.
Alaska Cake Studio sits on Fourth Avenue near many of
Anchorage’s galleries, but makes works of art in pastry. Displays
of cupcakes, cookies and chocolates tempt the taste buds, but
consider a tall slice from one of the cakes behind the counter
before coming to a final decision.The offerings vary based on
fresh ingredients and the fantasies of pastry pros, but if you have
a sweet vision of your own, these wizards whip up custom
orders for special occasions.
Modern Dwellers has me in caffeine and chocolate nirvana.
From two very hip storefronts, one downtown and another on
36th Avenue, they offer up a whole host of premium chocolates,
a full espresso bar and handmade truffles incorporating exotic
spices and delicate fruit flavors in chocolate ganache. For the
truly adventurous, there’s always the salmon surprise truffle. But
for a sweet sip, try the drinking chocolates.Their spicy chocolate
mocha is a great winter warmer, but I must admit I’m still drink-
For information on hot happenings
explore anchorage.net/coast
Alaska Coast
DCALENDAR
OOR
ALASKA 5K AND 10K CLASSICS
AUGUST 2011
OUT
or Walk with Friends is a fun way to enjoy the company
of friends or meet new people for an hour on the Tony
Knowles Coastal Trail. For more information, go to
www.anchoragerunningclub.org.
coast-magazine.com
Events can now be posted on the COAST magazine
website free of charge! Events must be submitted to
the online calendar in order to be considered for printing in the magazine. Visit www.coast-magazine.com.
Under the Events tab, choose Add New Event. You may
add an event as a guest visitor without logging in;
however, signing up for a calendar account will allow
you to make changes to the event information in the
future.
COAST reserves the right to publish or withhold
any information submitted. All events will be moderated before appearing to the public, so be sure they pertain to our region and are appropriate. COAST magazine will make efforts to print your events, especially
those that would be of interest to our readers, on a
space-available basis.
Calendar compiled by Mary Lochner
[email protected]
KAYAKING & CANOEING
YUKON 360
This shorter cousin of the Yukon 1000 held in July is a
360K canoe and kayak race that starts Saturday, Aug.
13 in Mayo and ends in Dawson City, running along
the Stewart and Yukon Rivers. (While the Yukon 1000
was run mostly in Alaska this year, the 360 is on the
Canadian side of the Yukon.) It’s billed as a “no frills,
unsupported endurance event” (www.yukon1000.com)
and requires teams to take eight-hour-minimum
overnight stops every 24 hours, while a Spot Device is
used to track racers at each leg of the race. For more
information or to register, call (867) 333-0755, or email
[email protected].
CYCLING
ALASKA’S 1200K GRAND RANDONEE
This timed cycling event (with certificates for those
who finish within the time limit; this is a randonneuring
event, not a race) is held on Aug. 21. For more information or to register, go to www.alaskarandonneurs.org.
RUNNING & WALKING
RUN OR WALK WITH FRIENDS
Every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Westchester Lagoon, Run
Race meet-up is on Saturday, Aug. 6 at Elderberry Park
in Anchorage at 9:30 a.m. Race start for both the 5K
and the 10K is at 10 a.m. This race is sponsored by the
Peak Performers Track Club and proceeds benefit
Special Olympics Alaska. For more information or to
register, go to www.active.com.
ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER WILDLIFE RESCUE
RUN/WALK
Race meet-up is 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Alaska SeaLife
Center in Seward for this 5K along a scenic waterfront
course. Race begins at 11:15 a.m. for walkers and noon
for runners. Proceeds from this support the rescue, care
and placement or release of stranded marine wildlife.
Participants receive a free day pass to the Alaska
SeaLife Center on race day. To register go to
http://www.singmeup.com/calendar. For more information or to become a sponsor contact Tim Lebling at
(800) 224-2525 ext. 6399 or [email protected].
RUNNING WITH THE BULLS
These races – a 1K, 5K and 10 K – course through pastures and rolling hills in Palmer (sorry, runners will not
literally run with bulls). Meet-up is at the Musk Ox
Farm in Palmer and races start at 11 a.m. Sponsored by
Friends of the Musk Ox. Proceeds benefit the Palmer
Musk Ox Farm. For more information or to register,
contact Mark Austin at (907) 745-4151 or
[email protected].
LOST LAKE BREATH OF LIFE RUN
This 16-mile mountain trail run benefits Alaskans with
cystic fibrosis. The meet-up is on Saturday, Aug. 27 at
the Bear Creek Fire Station in Seward at 6 a.m. Race
start is 8 a.m. for walkers and 10 a.m. for runners. For
more information or to register, contact Patrick Simpson
at (907) 563-3474 or [email protected], or
go to www.lostlakerun.org.
DUALS & TRIATHLONS
ALASKA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP DUATHLON AND
TRIATHLON
The duathlon event includes a 5K run, 40K road bike
and 10K trail run. The triathlon includes a 1.5K lake
swim, 40K road bike and 10K trail run. Meet-up for
both races is 8 a.m. at Knik Lake and race start is at 10
a.m. For more information or to register, contact Andy
Duenow at (907) 344-2740 or [email protected] or go to
www.akstatetriathlon.com.
FESTIVALS
MAGADON CELEBRATION
Enjoy music and dancing from Anchorage’s sister city in
Russia on Thursday, Aug 4 from noon-1 p.m. at
Peratrovich Park. Hosted by the Anchorage Downtown
Partnership. For more information, go to www.anchoragedowntown.org.
HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL
Enjoy dancers, music and food from Hawaii on
Saturday, Aug. 20 from 1-5 p.m. at Peratrovich Park.
Hosted by the Anchorage Downtown Partnership. For
more information, go to
www.anchoragedowntown.org.
GREEK FESTIVAL
This is the final race of the AK Mountain Runner Grand
Prix. Meet-up is on Saturday, Aug. 13 at the Alyeska
Tram at 10 a.m. Race starts at noon for this uphill-only
2K (participants take the tram back down). For more
information or to register, contact Brian Burnett at
(907) 745-2536 or [email protected].
You won’t want to miss this annual festival at Holy
Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Anchorage
(2800 O’Malley Road). On Friday, Aug. 19 from 11
a.m.–10 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11 a.m.-10p.m.,
and Sunday, Aug. 21 from noon-8 p.m., enjoy Greek
food, art and live music. Free admission and free parking. For more information, go to http://www.transfiguration.ak.goarch.org/.
BREAST CANCER RUN
BIRD TLC’S AUTUMN WINGS FESTIVAL
ALYESKA CLASSIC MOUNTAIN RUN
This run to benefit breast cancer research meets up on
Sunday, Aug. 14 at Bishop’s Beach Pavilion in Homer.
Race time is at 11 a.m. Races are a one mile and a five
mile. Participants are encouraged to wear pink.
Sponsored by the Kachemak Bay Family Planning
Clinic. For more information or to register, call (907)
235-3436, email [email protected], or go to
www.kbfpc.org.
BIG WILD LIFE RUNS
The annual Anchorage Running Club’s Big Wild Life
Runs in Anchorage are held on Sunday, Aug. 21 and
start at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Ale House in Anchorage
(610 West Sixth Avenue); except for the Children’s
Hospital at Providence Kids’ 2K, which starts at the
Children’s Hospital at Providence (3200 Providence
Drive). Meet-up for the Sun Moose’s Tooth Marathon,
Bear Tooth Marathon Walk and Relay, and Sun Skinny
Raven Half Marathon are at 7:30 a.m. with a race time
of 9 a.m. The Sun Snow City Café 5K meet-up is at 8:30
a.m. with a race start of 9:15 a.m. The Children’s
Hospital at Providence Kids’ 2K meet-up is at 7:30
a.m., with a race start at 8:10 a.m. For more information or to register, contact [email protected], or go to www.bigwildliferuns.org.
On Saturday, Aug. 27 from noon-4 p.m. at the Bird
Treatment and Learning Center Property (14410 Old
Seward Highway), Bird TLC hosts a celebration of birds,
wildlife and the Alaskan autumn with live education
eagles, owls, falcons, hawks, songbirds and corvids, as
well as arts, crafts and activities. There will also be a
bald eagle release at 2 p.m. For more information, go
to www.birdtlc.net.
BLUEBERRY ARTS FESTIVAL
This festival is held Aug. 5-7 in Ketchikan. It offers more
than 100 booths featuring local art and crafts; a fun
run; food and game booths; Battle of the Bands; and,
of course, a blueberry pie eating contest. There’s also a
pet and doll parade, juried art show and “Trout Fishing
in America” poetry slam. For more information, go to
www.ketchikanarts.org.
ALYESKA BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL
The Hotel Alyeska in Girdwood hosts the Alyeska
Blueberry Festival on Aug. 13-14 in the hotel’s Pond
Courtyard. This festival also offers arts, crafts and food
booths, with an emphasis on blueberries, as well as live
local music and a beer and wine garden. Both events
are a great way to extend the pleasure your whole
family gets out of blueberry season this year. For more
information, go to www.alyeskaresort.com.
TOAST continued from page 6
nist Tom Pogson insists on taking time — time to become a better
paddler.And if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy Alaska, this
month Pogson is talking to beginners.
Last, summer’s not over yet, no matter what you might have
heard (I’m just trying to cheer you up, but really it’s almost over so
you’d better make the most of it).And one sure way to enjoy the
daylight or mild evenings is to take to the streets. Mary Lochner, as
you’ve come to know, has the arts and culture scene summed up
so you don’t have to do any legwork. She focused a bit on the First
Friday Art Walk, which specifically implies using your legs. Learn
AK ON THE GO continued from page 57
It’s a sound we only hear once a year at this particular time, and it
fills my heart with a joyous melody I tuck away for the dark winter
ahead.
What does a family need to pick berries in Alaska? Not much,
other than a few household items and an enthusiastic crew to
help. Containers need not be fancy.We use a leftover ice cream
bucket with a sealable lid to protect berries from spills coming
down the hill. Some families count on their berry picker, a metal
scoop with tines on one end that collects berries, leaves and all,
and deposits them into the nether regions of the picker.AK Dad is
a pro with this tool and could clear a berry patch faster than you
could say “homemade pie.” Other optional items include a pile of
snacks and drinks, because berry picking is more fun on a full
stomach; bear bells and bear spray for those unlikely encounters
(but we prepare anyway, especially in the more wooded areas);
and bug dope.
There’s great berry picking to be found in Arctic Valley, Flattop
Mountain and Girdwood every year. For the ultimate in views and
berries, try Arctic Valley off the Glenn Highway northeast of
MEDRED continued from page 4
better than the Mountain Hardwear Backcountry, and has an
R-value of eight. Let’s compare here for a minute. A regular
old Therm-a-Rest inflatable is less than half as thick, has an Rvalue (the bigger the number the better) less than half as
high, and weighs only four or five ounces less.
Love that Downmat. It was, I must say, an incredible
piece of gear — right up to the time it started leaking air.
Then it became as irritating and troublesome as any old
Therm-a-rest inflatable.
Do you have any idea how much time a man could
spend in a bathtub full to the brim with water wrestling to
hold a fully-inflated Downmat under in a search for pinhole
leaks, which are the leaks that always seem to develop over
time? I remember once submerging an old Therm-a-rest
inflatable to look for leaks and seeing the whole cover just
sort of grow fuzz because there were so many pinholes.
But Therm-a-Rest inflatables were cheap back then.
Downmats are not cheap. It’s more than a little irritating to
spend more than $150 on a sleeping pad one year, then
find yourself a couple years down the road cussing its pinhole leaks. Suffice it to say, that aforementioned packraft is
years older than the Downmat, has seen way more abuse,
more about walks, and enjoy some advance notice on music and
entertainment happenings in Aprés.
Regarding mild evenings, Craig Medred has had just about
enough of packable mattresses that should just as well be left at
home.You’d think a sourdough like Medred could get a good
night’s rest during a brisk 30 degrees. But, his suffering has been to
your benefit.
All that ought to keep you busy until fall (not the reading,the
activities). Can you believe we’re already talking about our annual
Mountain Report, with updates on the skiing scene, as well as
Alaska SnowRider, our snowmachine enthusiast’s magazine? Hey,
it’s all in the name of adventure! No complaints from us.
Anchorage. Exit the Glenn Highway at Arctic Valley Road, and drive
up a few winding miles to a pristine alpine meadow that offers
one of the best vistas in town and a wealth of blueberry and crowberry patches.
The Hillside area of Anchorage, including Flattop Mountain and
Powerline Pass offer lovely spots for family berry time with plenty
of company.
Girdwood’s Alyeska Resort has a bunch o’ blueberries on its ski
slopes, so start by walking up Mount Alyeska from the Daylodge, or
take the tram up and hike down, picking and grinning along the
way.The Winner Creek Trail also has easy berry picking along the
trail’s start right out the Hotel Alyeska back door.
The Alaska Public Lands Information Center on Fourth Avenue
in Anchorage has a great map of berry picking spots around Alaska.
So does the Cooperative Extension Service of the University of
Alaska Fairbanks, where you could gather information on where to
find berries, how to identify them and how to prepare them.
Find the Alaska Public Lands Center online at
http://www.alaskacenters.gov/anchorage, and the Cooperative
extension at www.uaf.edu/ces.
and it’s not leaking.
There has got to be a better inflatable pad fabric out
there somewhere. The Alpacka fabric, square inch for
square inch, can’t be that much heavier than any of the
mattress fabrics which are so prone to leakage. You almost
start to wonder if manufacturers aren’t designing inflatable
pads to leak.
I hope that’s not the case. But when you wake up cold
on the ground in the middle of the night because your
inflatable pad has gone flat — no matter what brand — it’s
hard not to wonder.
But the sad thing is that the quest for comfort will keep
some of us experimenting with inflatable pads anyway.
I’m now on a Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Mummy. It
isn’t as cushy as the Downmat — two-and-a-half inches
thick versus three-and-a-half inches thick. It doesn’t provide
nearly the insulation — it has an R-value of four, versus an
R-value of eight. But it is a little lighter than the Downmat.
And it packs up smaller and is way more comfy than any
pad of closed-cell foam.
But best of all, so far at least, it hasn’t developed a leak.
I have my hopes. I will cling to them until that first cold
night.
SAFETY continued from page 12
While I waited, I tried not to wiggle, but the pressure grew
tighter and tighter around my ankles and calves and I couldn’t
seem to help myself. The more I wiggled, the deeper I sank.
By the time Dad showed up with a sheet of plywood and a
shovel, I was butt deep in the stuff. “Stand still!” he shouted. He
quickly dropped the plywood on the slimy surface behind me
and ordered me to sit down on it. “Relax your feet,” he instructed.
As I forced my body to stop moving, I could feel some of
the pressure of the suction let up. Meanwhile, Dad took a second board and threw it onto the mud and stood on it, digging
around my legs with the shovel. Every surge of the tide
brought the water closer to my muddy prison and raised my
fear.
SUGAR SHOCK continued from page 61
ing them under the midnight sun.
A hot chocolate may not be everyone’s ideal in the middle
of summer. It’s common knowledge that Alaska consumes
more ice cream per capita than any other state.There have
been a couple downtown additions in recent months, so
here’s the scoop: Fur Rondy Headquarters and Bear & Raven
Theater are both dishing up frozen treats now, so swing
through.Tastee Freez has been serving up sundaes in Alaska
since 1958 and the Raspberry Road store is the perfect way to
One wave was so big, Dad jumped out of the way as it
splashed over me. “Daddy, don’t leave me,” I cried, jerking on
my feet. This time when I pulled, the suction broke and I
popped out of my boots and fell back on the plywood. Before
another wave could douse me, Dad scooped me up and
wrapped me in a blanket.
“What about my boots?” I asked, turning back to where my
brand new break-up boots were buried.
“Small price,” Dad said.
As I mused over this memory, I glanced up and watched the
sun settle into the distant sky. The boys came running toward
the trail to retrieve their shoes and socks. Safe. The tide had
not changed and the boys probably never knew the dangers
that lurked beneath their feet.
And if they’re fortunate, they will never find out except
through stories like this.
chill after a day in Kincaid Park.
No sugar shock is complete without Alaska Wild Berry Park.
A chocolate waterfall worthy of Wonka greets visitors. If that
sweet stream doesn’t make your mouth water, the first whiff
of chocolate will get anyone channeling Augustus Gloop.
Cases are packed with caramels, chocolate turtles, fudge and
the famous wild berry jelly center chocolates.The smaller
downtown location packs the sweet stuff into the Fifth
Avenue Mall, so the temptation to pick up a few pieces is
almost unavoidable.You’ve been out burning calories; Go on,
indulge. And grab a couple for me while you’re there.
GUIDES and SERVICES
Advertise your
business here!
Call 677.2900
to find out
how!
TRAILMIX continued from page x
Carlyle Watt and the Skillet Lickers. The formal is $100 per
person or $600 for an eight-person table.
Last but not least, the Fungus Fair includes a fun run; a 5K
and one-miler starts at 10 a.m. on Aug. 28. For more information or to register for the run, go to www.fungusfair.com.
—Mary Lochner
Bikers get a lift
Alyeska Resort will open its challenging mountain terrain
and select chairlifts to intermediate-to-advanced mountain bikers this summer. Bikers will be able to load their bikes onto
chairs 4 and 6, as well as the aerial tram, for top-to-bottom
downhill mountain biking. The 2011 summer biking season
began in June, and lifts are open for biking between 11 a.m.
and 6 p.m.
This summer’s bike
offering is the result of a
successful trial run the
The hub of the bike
resort held last
activity will be centered
September. The overaround the Daylodge on the
whelmingly positive
day-use side of the ski
response from the biking
community in southcenarea. From the Daylodge,
tral Alaska encouraged the
guests will be able to rent
resort to accelerate its
downhill bicycles with
timetable, and planning
for regular season bike
helmets and pads.
operations started midwinter. The chairs on the
two lifts have been outfitted with bike-holder attachments so that riders and their bikes
can travel uphill safely.
“In our commitment to providing year round recreational
activities, mountain biking represents a huge step toward our
overall goal,” said Di Hiibner, Alyeska Resort Ski Area general
manager.
The hub of the bike activity will be centered around the
Daylodge on the day-use side of the ski area. From the
Daylodge, guests will be able to rent downhill bicycles with
helmets and pads.
The rental shop will also offer bike repair services and
other bike related accessories and parts.
Biking will be available Fridays through Sundays through
Oct. 10, including holidays that fall on Monday: Sept. 5, and
Oct. 10. Riders will have access to multiple trails featuring single track and cat tracks, plus wood bridges and man-made features.
The resort is opening the Sitzmark Bar and Grill so that
hungry bikers can refuel. The Sitzmark will open on a complementary schedule with service starting at 11 a.m. Fridays
through Sundays plus holiday Mondays during the bike season.
Helmets will be required for all riders and are available for
rent at the Daylodge Rental Shop for $5. The minimum age to
participate in lift-assisted biking is 10, and riders who are 18
years of age and younger will need to have a parent or
guardian present to sign a liability release form. For more
information, browse www.AlyeskaResort.com.

August, 2011 - Alaska Coast Magazine

Transcription

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