Kings of the Kenai: Part Four: Planning Self-guided trips

It’s worth noting that Kenai action is “suburban” fishing. Priced Alaska lodges lately? The Kenai’s just a short haul from Anchorage – well when the fish run and everyone driving down has a boat in tow that haul can be a bit longer. Soldatna has all sorts of motels, RV parks, house rentals, campgrounds and other lodgings too – see listings. So it’s a fine choice for anglers on a budget. Local seafood restaurants deserve a look.

Factor in exceptional local saltwater action in sheltered saltwater for halibut and cod, the searun cutthroat, steelhead and much else and this may be the best bet for anglers on a budget. Don’t overlook the crabbing and clamming in cook inlet. All of this suggests you bring along a smoker or consider having the catch you keep smoked in town.

Whilte it’s possible to take the Alcan Highway one local notes, “The Alcan is an intelligence test. Smart folks only drive one way.” Flying in from Seattle to Anchorage is easy and scenic and guides can supply the boats. However, if you wish to bring your own boat consider either the Alaskan Ferry System or even one of the cruise ships that lets you bring along your own wheels and trailered boat. With time you can plan intermediate stops near Juneau or Sitka.

TIP: Alaska has a wonderful system of affordable rental cabins as well. Some are “boat in” and others require the services of a float plane. All are exceptional getaway values.

MAN-MADE SALMON MAGIC LOST

"Lower 48" salmon buffs could set records closer to home too. Lake Michigan could support even larger salmon than Alaska, if the work of two Michigan State professors, Dr. Don Garling and Dr. Howard Tanner, got full support and, perhaps, some private side funding. With the rather minimal cooperation of Michigan's Department of Natural Resources, and the usual underpaid school of graduate students, they developed a system to heat-shock salmon eggs.

This produces "triploidy" in nine of ten salmon fry from the 쳌half of the eggs that survive. Why is this important? Triploid salmon and other species are sterile. So they won't reproduce and overrun native species.

Also, and more important for record seekers and those who like to eat their catch, instead of running up rivers and turning mushy before they spawn and die, they should remain bright and firm. They just chase bait in the Great Lakes and grow until caught by a happy fisherman.

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