Bear Watching in Alaska

Bears are a dominant and widespread form of wildlife throughout all of Alaska and bear sightings are not uncommon in many regions. Alaska is home to 98 percent of the United States’ population of brown bears. Bears of this species that are found inland are commonly referred to as “grizzlies”, but “brown bear” differentiates those which live in coastal areas where their primary food source is salmon.

Brown Bears

Brown bears are wide-ranging animals, meaning they can live across a variety of different environments in their lifetime. Populations of brown bears vary depending on the availability of food, which is why Alaskan brown bears are more commonly found along the coast. Brown bears are omnivorous, though their habitats typically mirror the behavior of salmon. After emerging from hibernation in their dens during the early spring, brown bears move towards streams to follow the predictable runs of salmon. This migratory pattern usually occurs from June to October, when brown bears can be found hunting for salmon along the streams.

No See Um Lodge’s location on the Kvichak River provides for occasional bear sightings but a typical day out in the field will generally include multiple bear sightings and often an entire day spent fishing with the bears. The waters here are teeming with fish and our guests aren’t the only ones looking for good sport! Bears are common in the areas surrounding the waters and whether you’re on a fishing trip, strolling the grounds, or even taking in the view from your window, sooner or later you’ll see one of these beautiful creatures.

Bear Viewing

Whether you are watching bears while fishing or part of a guided viewing, there are certain precautions you must be mindful of. If you’re part of a tour, your guide will have a list of safety measures and steps to go over with you. Here are some quick helpful things to keep in mind when looking for bears:

• Keep your distance. You don’t have to get up-close to appreciate a bear-viewing experience. National Park rules require that you maintain 50 yards from a feeding bear.
• Make noise when walking through thick brush.
• If you have a fish on the line, and the bear makes any indication that he’s interested in your fish, break it off. Teaching a bear that anglers are a possible food source is never good.
• Stay calm. Avoid running or making sudden movements if you feel threatened. Make noise and move away slowly. Bears are looking for fish, not a Gortex coated noise maker and will quickly lose interest.
• Keep your gear on. Bears are curious, unattended gear will be investigated with teeth and claws.
• Never get between a mother and her cubs. It does happen and while not the best situation, typically very uneventful. The same rules apply, make noise and slowly move away.

Remember, bears are very common in Alaska and you’re likely to happen across one even if you don’t intend to. This shouldn’t be a cause for concern: bears typically keep to themselves unless they feel threatened and they’re almost as used to us as we are of them. Still, you should always be prepared and it’s important to act appropriately. Everyone visiting Alaska should at least be familiar with some of the standard protocol for encountering a bear. Our fishing guides are highly experienced in dealing with bears and will ensure your encounter is exciting, informative but not dangerous.

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