Alaska Sporting Journal - May 2021 by Media Index Publishing Group

FISHING • HUNTING • ADVENTURE

AKSPORTINGJOURNAL.COM

COLLINS LAKE

Northern California’s Premier Fishing Lake

• • • •

Stocked with Trophy Trout, Bass & Crappie. California’s largest private trout stocking program of any lake North of Sacramento. Clean, professional RV park with lakefront hookup sites. Big rigs welcome. Stocked weekly with Trophy Trout each Spring from Mid-February thru May.

Online Reservations www.collinslake.com or Call (530) 692-1600

LIGHTWEIGHT. LIGHTWEIGHT. The lightest 200-hp four stroke The lightest 200-hp four stroke on the market on the market

POWERFUL. POWERFUL.

2.8L displacement and Variable Camshaft 2.8Lgive displacement Variable Camshaft Timing it the bestand power-to-weight ratio Timing give it the best power-to-weight ratio of any 200-hp four stroke of any 200-hp four stroke

COMPACT. COMPACT.

Nearly 120 pounds lighter than our Nearly 120 pounds lighter than our four-stroke V6 F200 four-stroke V6 F200

THE ALL-NEW F200 IN-LINE FOUR. THE ALL-NEW F200 IN-LINE FOUR.

FORWARD THINKING. THINKING. FORWARD

Show the water who’s boss with the new F200 In-Line Four. Incredibly light, responsive and fuel efficient, Show theup water who’s boss with the new F200aIn-Line Incredibly responsive andalternator fuel efficient, it serves plenty of muscle to handily propel varietyFour. of boats. On toplight, of that, its 50-amp offers itthe serves up plenty of muscle to handily propel a variety of boats. On top of that, its 50-amp alternator power to add a range of electronics, and its 26-inch mounting centers and compatibility with eitheroffers the power tooradd a range of electronics, and its 26-inch mounting centers compatibility withExperience either mechanical digital controls give you the flexibility to easily upgrade yourand outboard or rigging. mechanical or digital controls give you the flexibility to easily upgrade your outboard or rigging. Experience legendary Yamaha reliability and the freedom of forward thinking, with the all-new F200 In-Line Four. legendary Yamaha reliability and the freedom of forward thinking, with the all-new F200 In-Line Four.

WASHINGTON PASCO Northwest Marine and Sport 2250 Commercial Ave. (509) 545-5586 www.nwmarineandsport.com YamahaOutboards.com/F200InLine YamahaOutboards.com/F200InLine

Follow Yamaha on Facebook® and Twitter™ Follow Yamaha on Facebook® and Twitter™ REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

THEY WRITE COUNTRY SONGS ABOUT MORNINGS LIKE THIS. THEY WRITE COUNTRY SONGS THEY WRITE COUNTRY SONGS THEY WRITE COUNTRY SONGS THEY WRITE COUNTRY ABOUT MORNINGS LIKESONGS THIS. ABOUT MORNINGS LIKE THIS. ABOUT MORNINGS LIKE THIS. ABOUT MORNINGS LIKE THIS.

G P

BUT AT 70 MPH YOU CAN’T HEAR THEM. BUT AT 70 MPH YOU BUT ATAT 7070 MPH YOU BUT MPH YOU BUT ATHEAR 70 MPH YOU CAN’T THEM. CAN’T HEAR THEM. CAN’T HEAR THEM. CAN’T HEAR THEM.

It’s a glorious sunrise, viewed in fast forward thanks to the power of your 250 ProXS. Because you need to get there while the fish are still eating breakfast.

CONNECTICUT

Learn more atsunrise, mercurymarine.com visit your local today. It’s a glorious viewed in fast or forward thanks todealer, the power of your 250 ProXS. It’s a glorious sunrise, viewed in fast forward thanks to the power of your Because you need to get there while the fish are still eating breakfast. It’s a glorious sunrise, viewed in fast forward thanks to the power of 250 yourProXS. 250 ProXS. It’s aBecause glorious sunrise, in fastwhile forward thanks to theeating power of your 250 ProXS. Because you need to getviewed there while the fish are still eating breakfast. you need to get there the fish are still breakfast. Learn more at mercurymarine.com or visit your local dealer, today. Because you need to get there while the fish are still eating breakfast. LearnLearn moremore at mercurymarine.com or visit dealer, today.today. at mercurymarine.com oryour visit local your local dealer, Learn more at mercurymarine.com orObsession visit your local dealer, today. N E W H A M P S H I R E Boats Captain Bub’s Marine Inc.

Connor’s and O’Brien Marina Pawcatuck, CT CONNECTICUT connorsandobrien.com C O N NCEOCN TN IC EU CT TICUT Connor’s and CONNEC T IO’Brien C U T Marina Defender Industries Inc. Pawcatuck, CT Connor’s and O’Brien Marina Connor’s Waterford, CT and O’Brien Marina connorsandobrien.com Pawcatuck, CT O’Brien Connor’s and Marina Pawcatuck, CT defender.com connorsandobrien.com Pawcatuck, CT connorsandobrien.com Defender Industries Inc. connorsandobrien.com O’Hara’s Landing Waterford, CT Industries Defender Industries Inc. Defender Inc. Salisbury, CT defender.com Waterford, CT Defender Industries Waterford, CT Inc. oharaslanding.com defender.com Waterford, CT defender.com O’Hara’s Landing defender.com M A S S AC H U S E T T S Salisbury, CT Landing O’Hara’s Landing O’Hara’s oharaslanding.com Salisbury, CT O’Hara’s Landing Salisbury, Action Marine & CT Watersports Inc. oharaslanding.com Salisbury, CT oharaslanding.com Holyoke, MA M A S S AC H U S E T T S oharaslanding.com actionmarineholyoke.com M A S SM AC HSUAC S EH TU TS SE T T S AS Action Inc. M A S SMarine AC H U&SWatersports ETTS Bill’s Outboard Motor Service Holyoke, MA Marine Action Marine & Watersports Inc. Action & Watersports Inc. Hingham, MA actionmarineholyoke.com Holyoke, MA ActionHolyoke, Marine &MA Watersports Inc. billsoutboard.com actionmarineholyoke.com Holyoke, MA actionmarineholyoke.com Bill’s Outboard Motor Service actionmarineholyoke.com Hingham, MA Bill’s Outboard Motor Service Bill’s Outboard Motor Service billsoutboard.com Hingham, MA Motor Bill’s Outboard Hingham, MA Service billsoutboard.com Hingham, MA billsoutboard.com billsoutboard.com

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

Lakeville, MA captainbubsmarine.com

East Falmouth, MA capecodboatcenter.com

Obsession Boats Captain Bub’s Marine Inc. Portside Marine Doug Russell Marine East Falmouth, Lakeville, MA Marine Obsession BoatsMA Captain Bub’s Inc. Obsession Boats Captain Danvers, MA Worcester, MA Bub’s Marine Inc. capecodboatcenter.com captainbubsmarine.com East Falmouth, MA Lakeville, MA Obsession Boats Captain Bub’s Marine Inc. East Falmouth, MA Lakeville, MA portsidemarine.us WorcesterBoating.com capecodboatcenter.com captainbubsmarine.com East Falmouth, MA Lakeville, MA capecodboatcenter.com captainbubsmarine.com Portside Marine Doug Russell Marine capecodboatcenter.com captainbubsmarine.com Riverfront Marine Sports Inc. Essex Marina LLC. Danvers, MA Marine Worcester, MAMarine Portside Marine Doug Russell Portside Salisbury, MA Essex,Doug MA Russell Marine portsidemarine.us WorcesterBoating.com Danvers, MA Worcester, MA Marine Portside MarineMA Doug Russell Danvers, Worcester, MA riverfrontmarine.com essexmarinallc.com portsidemarine.us WorcesterBoating.com Danvers, MA Worcester, MA portsidemarine.us WorcesterBoating.com Riverfront Marine Sports Inc. Essex Marina LLC. PASCO portsidemarine.us WorcesterBoating.com South Attleboro Marine McLellan Brothers Inc. Salisbury, MA Essex,Marina MA Marina Riverfront Marine Sports Sports Inc. Essex LLC. LLC. Riverfront Marine Inc. Essex North Attleboro, MA Northwest Marine and Sport Everett, MA riverfrontmarine.com essexmarinallc.com Salisbury, MA Essex, Riverfront Marine EssexMA MarinaMA LLC. Salisbury, MASports Inc. Essex, www.sammarine.com mclellanbrosinc.com riverfrontmarine.com 2250 Commercial Ave. essexmarinallc.com Salisbury, MA Essex,essexmarinallc.com MA riverfrontmarine.com South Attleboro Marine McLellan Brothers Inc. riverfrontmarine.com essexmarinallc.com Wareham Boat Yard Merrimac Marine Supply (509) 545-5586 NorthAttleboro Attleboro, MA Marine Everett, MA South Marine McLellan Brothers Inc. South Attleboro McLellan W. Wareham, MA Methuen, MA Brothers Inc. www.sammarine.com mclellanbrosinc.com North MA Everett, MABrothers SouthAttleboro, Attleboro MarineMA McLellan Inc. www.nwmarineandsport.com North Attleboro, Everett, MA wareham-boatyard-marina.com merrimacmarine.com www.sammarine.com mclellanbrosinc.com North www.sammarine.com Attleboro, MA Everett, MA mclellanbrosinc.com Wareham Boat Yard Merrimac Marine Supply www.sammarine.com mclellanbrosinc.com Nauset Marine-Orleans W. Wareham, Methuen, MA Wareham BoatMA Yard Merrimac Marine SupplySupply Wareham Boat Yard Merrimac Marine Orleans, MA wareham-boatyard-marina.com merrimacmarine.com W. Wareham, MAYardMA Methuen, MA Wareham Boat Merrimac Marine W. Wareham, Methuen, MASupply nausetmarine.com wareham-boatyard-marina.com merrimacmarine.com W. Wareham, MA Methuen, MA wareham-boatyard-marina.com merrimacmarine.com Nauset Marine-Orleans wareham-boatyard-marina.com merrimacmarine.com Orleans, MA Marine-Orleans Nauset Marine-Orleans Nauset nausetmarine.com Orleans, MA NausetOrleans, Marine-Orleans MA nausetmarine.com Orleans, MA nausetmarine.com nausetmarine.com

WASHINGTON

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Dover Marine Dover, NH NEW HAMPSHIRE dovermarine.com NEW N HE AW M PHSAHM IR PE SHIRE Dover N E W Marine HAMPSHIRE Winnisquam Marine Dover,Marine NH Dover Dover Belmont, NH Marine dovermarine.com Dover, DoverNH MarineNH Dover, winnisquammarine.com dovermarine.com Dover,dovermarine.com NH Winnisquam Marine dovermarine.com RHODE ISLAND Belmont, NHMarineMarine Winnisquam Winnisquam winnisquammarine.com Belmont, NH Marine Winnisquam Belmont, Billington Cove NH Marina Inc. winnisquammarine.com Belmont, NH winnisquammarine.com Wakefield, RI R H O D E I S L A ND winnisquammarine.com bcoveyc.com R H O DREHIO SD LE AN DL A N D IS Billington R H O D E ICove S L AMarina N D Inc. Jamestown Distributors Wakefield, RI Marina Billington Cove Inc. Cove Marina Inc. Bristol,Billington RI bcoveyc.com Wakefield, RI Billington Cove Marina Inc. Wakefield, RI jamestowndistributors.com bcoveyc.com Wakefield, RI bcoveyc.com Jamestown bcoveyc.comDistributors Bristol,Jamestown RI Distributors Jamestown Distributors jamestowndistributors.com Bristol, RI Jamestown Distributors Bristol, RI jamestowndistributors.com Bristol,jamestowndistributors.com RI jamestowndistributors.com

Good Used Boats, Repair Parts, Quality Service, Knowlegeable Staff

SALES • SERVICE • ENGINES

GETTING YOU THE RIGHT PART THE FIRST TIME

Seastar Solutions Optimus EPS steering

Docking and maneuvering your boat in high winds has never been so easy. Let the Joy Stick do it for you. GPS position hold and heading hold is included.

Mercury Marine Outboard Promotion Horespower

Consumer Rebate

9.9 Pro Kicker

$100

15 Pro Kicker

$150

40 & 40 Jet

$200

$250

60 & 65 Jet

$400

75 & 80 Jet

$500

$600

115 & 115 ProXS

$1,000

150

$1,250

150 ProXS

$1,500

350

$2,000

400

$2,250

Subject to approval by mercury and dealer. Subject to terms. See dealer for details. NO SALES TAX IN OREGON

8 and 99 Kicker Motors in stock. Call now!

503-255-8487 • CascadeMarineCenter.com 14900 SE STARK ST. • PORTLAND, OR 97233 HOURS: MON-FRI 8AM-6PM • SAT 9AM-3PM

MOTORS MUST BE CAPABLE OF ACCEPTING JOYSTICK APPLICATION. CERTAIN LIMITATIONS APPLY.

Volume 12 • Issue 12 www.aksportingjournal.com PUBLISHER James R. Baker

INFORMATION SERVICES MANAGER Lois Sanborn

GENERAL MANAGER John Rusnak

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES media@media-inc.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andy Walgamott EDITOR Chris Cocoles WRITERS Paul D. Atkins, Bjorn Dihle, Scott Haugen, Tiffany Haugen, Brian Kelly, Brian Watkins SALES MANAGER Paul Yarnold ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mamie Griffin, Jim Klark, Mike Smith DESIGNER Lesley-Anne Slisko-Cooper PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Kelly Baker, Malena Kennedy WEB DEVELOPMENT/INBOUND MARKETING Jon Hines, Jon Eske ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Katie Aumann

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

MEDIA INDEX PUBLISHING GROUP 14240 Interurban Ave South • Suite 190 Tukwila, WA 98168 (206) 382-9220 • Fax (206) 382-9437 media@media-inc.com • www.media-inc.com CORRESPONDENCE Twitter @AKSportJourn Facebook.com/alaskasportingjournal Email ccocoles@media-inc.com ON THE COVER Scott Haugen’s favorite salmon fishery is Bristol Bay’s Nushagak River, which offers anglers some of Alaska’s best king salmon fishing. Mid-June is among the best times to fish the famed Nush. (SCOTT HAUGEN)

CONTENTS

VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 12

FEATURES 18

CRABBING AND COVID When Deadliest Catch, the popular Discovery Channel series that follows the lucrative and ultra-competitive Bering Sea crab fishing industry, prepared to film a 17th season, no one knew what to expect except that coronavirus was interrupting seemingly everyone’s livelihood on the planet. We caught up with Capt. Sig Hansen, who talked following pandemic protocols, crabbing without the benefit of a state season survey, and forming unlikely alliances with fellow skippers.

44 LIVIN’ THE ALASKA FISHING LIFE A chance encounter in Idaho with a salty veteran fisherman convinced Steve and Jenn Kurian to give the Last Frontier a whirl and try setnetting. It turned into a life-altering decision for the Kurian family. They now have a successful business and own the company that adorns Bjorn Dihle’s monthly Pride of Bristol Bay feature. He chronicles Steve and Jenn’s story.

GOLD MEDAL SILVERS Southeast Alaska’s waters offer some of the state’s best coho fishing. Lower 48er Brian Kelly makes a beeline for the panhandle whenever he can get north for a chance to score a silver. With the season straight ahead, scan Kelly’s to-do list for details on best spinners and jigs to throw, fly options and even how to implement bass fishing tactics to catch salmon!

BE PICTURE PERFECT Paul Atkins has enjoyed so many memorable adventures in Alaska, and he’s made sure to record them with his camera. Indeed, the next best thing to experiencing an epic outdoors trip is getting the best grip-and-grin shots of your big game animal or trophy salmon. Atkins details how he sets up shots that will make your smartphone photo stream sing.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 15 17 37 63

The Editor’s Note: Hemingway documentary is stirring, eye-opening Outdoor calendar From Field to Fire: An angler’s love of the Nushagak River Bear baiting tips, part two

(BRIAN KELLY)

Alaska Sporting Journal is published monthly. Call Media Inc. Publishing Group for a current rate card. Discounts for frequency advertising. All submitted materials become the property of Media Inc. Publishing Group and will not be returned. Annual subscriptions are $29.95 (12 issues) or $49.95 (24 issues). Send check or money order to Media Inc. Publishing Group, 14240 Interurban Ave South, Suite 190, Tukwila, WA 98168 or call (206) 382-9220 with VISA or M/C. Back issues may be ordered at Media Inc. Publishing Group, subject to availability, at the cost of $5 plus shipping. Copyright © 2021 Media Inc. Publishing Group. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be copied by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording by any information storage or retrieval system, without the express written permission of the publisher. Printed in U.S.A. 12

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Built for Adventure! THUNDER JET • BOULTON • FISH-RITE

With our factory-trained technicians for Yamaha, Suzuki, Mercury, Tohatsu and Honda motors, we can handle any project from electronic installs to complete boat and motor overhauls.

Need a new motor for your current boat? Best prices around on Repowers!

MAXXUM MARINE

1700 Hwy 99 N, Eugene, OR

www.maxxummarine.com

Toll Free 877-4-Maxxum (877-462-9986) Local 541-686-3572

YOUR MUST-STOP BEFORE HUNTING & FISHING ON PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND, ALASKA KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF WILL LET YOU KNOW WHERE, WHEN AND HOW!

EDITOR’S NOTE

When the editor visited Cuba and several Ernest Hemingway sites, seeing the famed author’s fishing boat Pilar at his estate had the most lasting impact of the experience. (CHRIS COCOLES)

henever I prepare to watch a Ken Burns documentary – whether he’s telling the story of baseball, the Civil War or jazz – I get so nervous with anticipation because I know there will be so much to learn and soak up. The filmmaker’s latest project, Hemingway, which premiered in mid-April, enlightened me about one of my writing heroes. If I didn’t know it already, Burns’ three-part tale of Ernest Hemingway’s life convinced me he was part brilliant, part flawed. Hemingway crafted beautiful novels and short stories, but he was at times a villain. He could be philanthropic and gentle, but he could be a womanizer and was a sad alcoholic. I kept thinking about Hemingway’s love for the outdoors. Burns captured the essence of the author’s passion for deep sea fishing and hunting (also pointing out that friends talked of his at times poor shooting accuracy in the field). I also took myself back to my 2017 trip to Cuba, which included an impromptu Hemingway tour. I drank a daiquiri at Hemingway’s favorite Havana bar, El Floridita. I looked up toward Hotel Ambos Mundos, where in Room 511 Hemingway typed up one of his masterpieces, For Whom the Bell Tolls. When we visited Hemingway’s suburban Havana estate, Finca Vigía, I was most mesmerized when checking out Pilar, his fishing boat. I kept wondering how many stories that craft could tell – about the marlin and tuna Ernest caught with his friends and family – and about what was going through his mind while piloting it all those years off the Florida Keys and Cuba. My trip – including running into a wheelchair-bound gentleman and his middle-aged son who told me his father was an old buddy of Hemingway’s in Cojimar, the fishing village adjacent to Finca Vigia – was something I’ll never forget. As for Hemingway, who I wish I could be half the writer he was, Burns reminded me that he was complicated, imperfect and tortured, but I’ve come to understand that our heroes aren’t supposed to be god-like. Only human. The documentary featured so many memorable quotes and passages from Hemingway’s memoirs and books. But this snippet of his appreciation for fishing the deep waters of the ocean will stand out to me for a long time. “When you’re drifting, out of sight of land, fishing four lines … you never know what may take the small tuna that you use for your bait,” actor Jeff Daniels says as the voice of Hemingway. “And every time the line starts to run off the reel, slowly first, then with the scream of the click as the rod bends, then you feel it double … pump and reel, pump and reel, pump and reel … There is always a thrill that needs no danger to make it real.” -Chris Cocoles aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

OUTDOOR * CALENDAR

Bay Avenue Bed & Breakfast Homer, Alaska

Stay with us

BAY AVE B&B IS IDEALLY LOCATED FOR: • Flight seeing • Farmers Market • Bear viewing • Local restaurants & breweries • Fishing charters • Water taxi to Kachemak Bay St. Park

o re For m

Breakfast always i nclude

& information

reservations cont act:

907-235-3757 Relax@BayAveBB.com BayAveBB.com

Valdez’s popular halibut derby begins on May 22 and runs through Sept. 5. The biggest fish will win a lucky angler $10,000. Go to valdezfishderbies.com for more information. (VALDEZ FISH DERBIES)

May 14-16 Fairbanks Outdoor Show/IABA Home Show, Tanana Valley State Fairgrounds (fairbanksevents .com/iaba-home-show) May 22 Start of Valdez Halibut Derby (valdezfishderbies.com) May 25 Last day of brown bear hunting in GMU 6D (Montague Island and remainder of unit) May 31 Last day of spring brown bear hunting in several units June 4-5 Homer Halibut Derby (homeralaska.org/homerhalibut-tournament) June 5-14 Valdez Halibut Hullabaloo (valdezfishderbies.com) June 30 Black bear hunting season ends in several units July 7 Mount Marathon Race (mountmarathon.com) July 24 Start of Valdez Silver Salmon Derby (valdezfishderbies.com/silver-derby) July 24 Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby (valdezfishderbies.com/kids-derby) Note: Check with local contacts over events that could be postponed/cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

DEADLIEST CATCH VERSUS A DEADLY VIRUS

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

SIG HANSEN ON ‘PARANOIA’ OF FISHING DURING PANDEMIC AND WORKING WITH FELLOW CAPTAINS INSTEAD OF AGAINST THEM BY CHRIS COCOLES

Deadliest Catch’s Sig Hansen, captain of the crabbing boat Northwestern, says “paranoia” was a common theme for the crews of the vessels that fish the Bering Sea during a season made even more challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (DISCOVERY CHANNEL)

ight crabbing captains or cocaptains – alpha personalities, all – stand around a fire on a crisp Alaska night, pondering how to reach a fleet quota while a pandemic threatens to shut down an entire industry. Maybe for good. “Guys, we represent so much of the quota right here; if we can work together, we can cut down our time, and we can find the crab that much faster,” Capt. Sig Hansen, the ringleader of this Survivorlike plan, tells the group. “That’s the bottom line.” As you might expect, many among the men are thinking more “a-lie-ance” than alliance. “If you’re honest, which is a really difficult word for you,” retorts Capt. Keith Colburn, summing up the level of skepticism you can sense in this fireside chat. “You’re asking a number of boats to work together as a team?” So goes the sense of desperation to keep the crabbing fleet afloat during a global health crisis. But that was one of many hurdles to clear for the fishing vessels chronicled on Deadliest Catch, which premiered its 17th season on April 20. Right from the first episode, the cynics that night seemed to be vindicated during an early trip on the water, with Hansen getting plenty of figurative side-eyes from his colleagues. It’s not an easy life, even without trying to avoid mass coronavirus outbreaks and filling quotas. Hansen, at 54 and still going strong despite two previous heart attacks, is like the rest of us, trudging along despite the lockdowns and protocols of the COVID-19 pandemic.

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

The crew of Hansen’s Northwestern, like all the boats in the Alaska fleet, had to adhere to strict coronavirus protocols to help prevent spread of the virus. “I’ve got friends who were in different fisheries as well, where if they spend four months fishing up there, they never got off that little boat one time in four months,” he says. “We were not even allowed to step on the dock to sign our fish tickets or to deliver sometimes.” (DISCOVERY CHANNEL)

“I’m trying to think what’s worse: Being at home because of COVID or being on the ocean because of the water?” he said. We chatted with Hansen about this most unorthodox crabbing season and all the challenges that went with it: The “alliance” he somehow got the other skippers to go along with – including coaxing Jonathan Hillstrand out of semiretirement to give it another go – and watching his daughter Mandy continue and get closer to piloting her own vessel someday.

Chris Cocoles Because of COVID, was this a season like no other for what you

had to go through, prepare for and try to avoid infections? Sig Hansen It was probably one of the more difficult just to get the season to begin and get us started – because we didn’t know how to start. That’s the problem with all the different protocols – we had a different protocol on our own vessel; we have protocols by the state of Alaska; there is a protocol in Dutch Harbor and for each individual town. And it was so difficult to get started on all of our backup plans for the fleet and for the processors and government. So, just getting started was a hurdle.

CC Were all of you on your boat and

Of his daughter Mandy, herself an aspiring captain, Sig Hansen says, “I think she’s doing great. I’m seeing more and more that she’ll go by her gut instinct … And that’s what I love to see. I wish I had that earlier in life. It took me a long time.” (DISCOVERY CHANNEL)

other boats on edge the whole time with the threat of the pandemic hovering over you and knowing that your operation could be shut down at any moment? SH Oh, absolutely. Getting started, like I said, and then waiting for the next five, seven or 10 days even after that. You’re literally counting the days on the calendar looking for symptoms. We’re checking the crew twice daily – (checking) temperatures, the whole nine yards. Paranoia had set in without question. And then, after the first 10 (or) 12 days, we could start to relax a little more about it as far as COVID was concerned. And then just going to the dock, there were different protocols there. I’ve got friends who were in different fisheries as well, where if they spend four months fishing up there, they never got off that little boat one time in four months. We were not even allowed to step on the dock to sign our fish tickets or to deliver sometimes. Even just to get some of the gear that we needed. It was delivered to the boats. So it was a really different experience for everybody as a whole.

CC What were the challenges you

encountered since the pandemic prevented the Alaska Department of Fish and Game from doing its annual summer crab survey of the Bering Sea waters you fish? SH No. 1: My hat’s off to the Department of Fish and Game, the state of Alaska and its government. Because it's a federal fishery, it’s run and managed by the state. For us, the big fear is that if we don’t 20

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Working together with other boats became a necessity, at least to the ringleader of the alliance, Hansen. But the idea for the fleet reaching its quota would be a lot more feasible by sharing information. More than a few captains were skeptical. (DISCOVERY CHANNEL)

have a season, by regulation we have a mandatory two-year rebuilding phase. Let’s just say hypothetically that they don’t have the crab in the survey for whatever reason and we’re shut down. Then we’re shut down for a minimum of two years as a rebuilding act. That’s the way they have it written right now. And you can go out the next year and there’s 10 times the amount of crab, because we’ve seen it fluctuate. So that was (also) a lot of paranoia without the survey. We rely on that – not just for that year, but we go out and fish to set a precedent for the next year. And we were very fortunate that the government didn’t shut us down because of the lack of surveying. We rely on that survey. That being said: Fishing without a survey was quite different as well. If you’ve been doing it for a while, you can look at those surveys and kind of get a little diagram in your head of what’s been going on. And you’ll see different changes in water temperature and things of that nature when the crab bloom and see it on the surveys when they cover the whole Bering Sea. And you can kind of tell where you’re going to start and 22

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

how you want to fish. But without the survey you were literally in the dark. A lot of guys will use that as a road map.

CC Did this season really test your patience as a longtime crab fisherman? SH Well, we had a fall season for king crab, and we jumped into our snow crab or opilio seasons. So absolutely it did. Starting out of the gate for red king crab, we really had to be careful. Normally, we go out and compete against each other; it’s bragging rights, just one of those things. If there’s a hot spot, you want it for yourself. Because we chose to work together and managed to do that, it was one for all. And as I said, that set some precedence for the next year. (ADFG) goes by what’s called the CPUE [catch per unit effort]. And they’ll keep track of how your fishing is. They do that through their observer program, and they can tell just on the numbers that we deliver with our crab – how many pots I pulled versus the average per pot. And so it’s very important to keep

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

that average high. When they start going by their template, they want it to kind of match. You can have a really terrible start and end up with a bang. But on average, you’re still low. You want to stay on that productive fishing and that set bar.

CC Tell us about Jon Hillstrand’s return. SH Getting Jonathan Hillstrand onboard

was a feat in itself. He really wants to retire and we dusted him off. When I got it dusted off, it was kind of, “Look, pal; we’ve got to join forces and here’s why: The more the merrier for something like this. The more guys who are participating, the more ground gets covered, and the faster you catch crab, right?” If we don’t do well, a lot of the boats are able to lease their quota, or buy and sell quota. And Jonathan was saying, “Yeah; you’re right. If we don’t do well now and we shut down, it doesn’t matter how much crab you catch.” If you have no one to lease it to, there’s no money coming in. So we got him onboard.

CC My favorite scene of the new season

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

The skeptical skippers would include even the Northwestern’s after crew member Mandy Hansen shared some info with a fellow captain while her dad Sig was away on a coffee break. “I’ve always had that paranoia,” he admits. (DISCOVERY CHANNEL)

was when you and all the captains were around the fire and you were hoping everyone would agree to work together. How did that go in your opinion? SH Well. [Laughs] I think the guys were a little skittish. But years ago you were always on the radio and you always fished in groups. It was very common. But then through time, it’s always been one man for himself, but you always had these little secret groups. Now we were just having one of these secret fishing groups on a larger scale, and it was hard to communicate with a lot of guys. Nobody instinctively wants to give up the hot spots.

CC And in certain ways, when you’re

covering so much water, is it important to have some sense of teamwork to be successful? SH You’ll partner up with guys and you can cover a lot of ground rapidly, even if you’re fishing 150 or 200 miles away from someone. You’ve got to rely on that information. That’s the biggest problem, because information needs to be honest. The oldest trick in the book is to say, “There’s all kinds of crab over here.” And by the time you take a day to pick up pots, move, go back and pick up more pots and then start your program, those crabs may have gone the day before. 24

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

And you don’t know what you’re moving to. So you really have to trust your fellow man. [Laughs] And that’s why real-time information is so important. And you have to know how to read your gear. Is that crab moving through? Are they stationary? By the time you get there are they gone? So there are some different tricks to it. An old trick (is to say), “I’ve been getting 100 average (crabs) over here,” but if that’s three-day-old news, that’s not going to work, is it? You feel better about yourself because you’re not lying. I did get 100 average over there. I just didn’t tell you when.

CC Early in the season your daughter Mandy shared some information with Saga Capt. Jake Anderson when she took the lead in the bridge and you were away. Were you a little angry with her? SH [Laughs] Hmm. Angry? CC Or maybe disappointed? SH Loose lips sink ships. And so, sharing information is great, but you have to know how to do it, eloquently. I know she has a bond with Jake. They’re almost brother and sister. But that being said, you hate throwing her under the bus. But again, I’ve always had that paranoia. There was a little anger at first, but then you say, “Wait a minute? I’m here to teach and she’s here to learn (to be a

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

captain) and why am I stepping on toes?” I’m a very reactive person and I’ll stick to what I think a lot of times. And I’m learning myself how to be a better father.

CC If you take off your dad’s hat for a moment, how is Mandy evolving into someone who wants to be a captain of her own boat someday? SH I think she’s doing great. I’m seeing more and more that she’ll go by her gut instinct. It took me a long time to figure out that you have your friends, fishing partners and buddies. You become a sheep and you’re following the herd. And I’ve seen more and more – and maybe it’s because I’m onboard with her – that she’s willing to take steps and starting to do more and more on her own and following her own instinct. And if it’s right or wrong, she’s starting to do that instinctively. And that’s what I love to see. I wish I had that earlier in life. It took me a long time. CC You’ve been doing this for a long

time, but what did you learn about yourself during this most unique time in your career? SH We always say safety first. This was a whole different ball game. It rang true. You had to have more patience. I always put safety first, but this time you had to

Lots, all sizes & locations $19K to $289.5K

Ridge-Top Cabin in the Woods $150K - South Thorne Bay

Home &Two-Unit Guest House $400K - North Thorne Bay

R&R Cabins $205K - Harris River

Developed Industrial Property $150K - Edna Bay

Developed Industrial Property $699K - Goose Creek

LOTS, ALL SIZES & LOCATIONS

from Residential to Industrial

$15K to $289.5K BROKER,

PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND REALTY LLC CELL 219-781-1825 | OFFICE & FAX 907-826-6600 EMAIL chucksrealestate@yahoo.com

www.AlaskaIslandRealty.com

this anymore. Or maybe I’m not as effective as I once was, and that’s not fair to anyone else.” But at the same time, it’s pride on the line. But I think at the end of the day, it really is so rewarding. I think that’s what brings everybody back. It’s that challenge – that risk and reward. It’s an addiction. It really is.

It was indeed a challenge like no other on the Northwestern, and for the 54-year-old Hansen, who’s had two heart attacks, he can’t help but ponder his future. But the lifestyle is something that’s not easy to quit. “It’s an addiction. It really is.” (DISCOVERY CHANNEL) really think about the industry as a whole. Everything was on such a large scale. But with safety, I was not only thinking about myself because of my (previous) heart attacks, and, of course, my crew, but also for the fleet as a whole. I did see everything from a broader scale. You still wanted to see everyone stay safe. But I still have the passion.

CC And when you went to visit Hillstrand, he told you he wants to retire soon and like you said, considering you’ve

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

had heart attack scares and now gone through COVID, how difficult is this for all of you to keep on going out there? Do you have to keep that passion burning to keep heading out on the water? SH I believe that. A lot of the guys say it’s in their blood and I get that. For me it’s also a family legacy (of fishing). But I think it’s also harder and harder. When you get older, naturally you’re thinking about your own mortality. And you get to this point where you think, “I don’t want to do this anymore, or I can’t do

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

CC That addiction has to keep you going. SH Absolutely. You can’t shake it. Things

change at home and you’re different with your wife (June). She’s mentioned before so many times that, “I guess it must be that time (to go fish), because now you’re not the same person.” In your mind you’re not even at home. You’re thinking about what you’re going to do before you get up there. It’s a great industry and a great life. And there’s a lot on the line. That’s the way it’s always going to be. ASJ

Editor’s note: New episodes of Deadliest Catch can be seen every Tuesday night this month on the Discovery Channel. Get more information at go.discovery.com/tv-shows/ deadliest-catch.

VERSATILITY KEY FOR SOUTHEAST SILVERS YES, SPINNERS ARE A TOP BET, BUT WHEN THESE FISH GET MOODY, IT’S TIME TO TRY THIS BAG OF TRICKS. BY BRIAN M. KELLY

atching dime-bright silver salmon on virtually every cast is a salmon junkie’s dream, and it’s what drives anglers like me to hop on a plane bound for Alaska every year. Silvers have a reputation for hitting just about anything that moves, but often the contrary is also true with Oncorhynchus kisutch. They are frequently a moody lot, dialed in with reckless abandon on one presentation one day and ignoring it the next five. Staying versatile is the key to consistently connecting with saltwater silvers, especially those staging in anticipation of their journey home. Tides, wind and precipitation all play roles in water conditions, which are the key piece of the puzzle when trying to determine the best possible presentations to deploy at that particular time.

SUPER SONIC SPINNERS

Spinners probably account for most silver fillets in Alaska every season, as the combination of flash, vibration and color is right in the salmon’s wheelhouse. They just can’t say no to this combo – on most days. Generally, spinners tend to work the best when the water has a bit of color to it, whether it is a result of wind, runoff 28

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

from a freshet or a heavy tide change. The sonic vibrations that spinners emit are perfect for hungry silvers to home in on via their sensitive lateral line when the water is off color. Add in bright colors, such as crowd favorite hot pink, and you’ll get the attention of a fish that other presentations just cannot match. When it comes to spinner styles, the traditional French blade version tends to be a popular choice, as these lures are widely available in most tackle shops around the state. The Vibrax, with its spinning brass bell body and thumping blade, can be found just about anywhere a silver swims and often turns on a fish when all others fail. The Mepps Flying C, which has a bright latex tail, offers a long casting design with a thick French blade that provides a thump you can feel in your molars. But in the last decade, there has been a relatively new player that can out-fish its plain Jane cousins: the skirted spinner. This design dates back to the 1970s, when coho were introduced in the Great Lakes and an enterprising fishing guide by the name of Jack Wadkins came up with the Arctic Spinner (arcticspinner .com). The combination of the thumping blade and throbbing rubber skirt proved to be a winning combo where it was

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

With their “most unique personality in the Oncorhynchus family – curious enough to chase a retrieve to the rod tip and feisty enough to test your reel’s drag,” silver salmon are “what drive anglers like me to hop on a plane bound for Alaska every year,” author Brian Kelly writes. (BRIAN KELLY)

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

born. It has also been my top producer on salty silver trips the last decade. The other option in this category comes from our friends at Alaska’s Kodiak Custom Tackle (kodiakcustom. com). Their skirted spinner comes in a variety of vibrant colors with two-tone silicone skirts that offer a different look than its rubber skirted counterpart. One major advantage this spinner design has over a plain design is the ability to retrieve the bait low and slow while staying off the bottom. The slow retrieve with the pulsating skirt can often be the ticket on a school of moody fish that have seen just about everything thrown at them on an incoming tide, with the majority of anglers cranking as fast as their arms will allow. Slow it down! The final piece of the spinner puzzle

to consider would be the blade finish. Old-school spinner junkies have been singing the praise of the silver-plated blade for decades; the silver plating reflects more light than any other finish and it certainly has its moments of glory. But most days, a painted blade will out-fish the flash. Silvers tend to favor vibration over sparkle. Stick with bright-colored blades such as pink, orange or chartreuse for most occasions, but don’t overlook an all-black skirted spinner when the fish get in that finicky mood.

HAVE A GOOD HAIR DAY

Believe it or not, there are times in Southeast Alaska that the sun actually shines for days on end! Add in low tide changes with clear water and you have the mak-

Southeast Alaska is a great destination for silver anglers – and not just for the fish also known as coho. Spectacular scenery like Mendenhall Glacier awaits visitors. (BRIAN KELLY) 30

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

ings for skittish salmon, which calls for a change in presentation to get bit. This is when the fly rod tends to shine, as the quiet pulsation of hair on a hook being stripped slowly drives the fish crazy. The beauty of this system is its simplicity: a 9-foot, 7- to 9-weight rod with a floating line, mono or fluorocarbon leader and a fly with a weighted head. Roll cast, double haul – whatever cast you feel most comfortable with, go with it. As with spinner colors, fly selection can vary, but if you stick with a variety of bunny strip or marabou patterns in two-tone combos such as black and white, pink and white or the legendary Tutti Frutti (pink and chartreuse), you’ll get bit consistently. Not a fly caster? Not to worry; gear fishermen can mimic the fly presentation with a hair jig. The trick with the hair

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

jig (be it marabou, rabbit or bucktail) is getting the right weight and right rhythm on the retrieve. Low or slack tide can have fish confined to skinny water; this is when an ⅛-ounce jig will do the trick. For most jig applications, stick with a ¼-ounce jig head, since silvers aren’t too keen on a presentation that drops like a rock. The trick is to keep the jig up in the water column and move, whether it is a constant swimming retrieve or a gentle twitch and reel; the fish will tell you what they want. One jig trick our crew has

been using the last few years is sliding a bass-style tube jig head into a plastic squid skirt, or hoochie. When you twitch this combo, the squid skirt rolls over and flashes on the

The author with a fat Southeast coho. He says versatility is the key to coaxing bites out of a silver in the salt. (BRIAN KELLY)

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

fall, which drives silvers out of their ever-loving minds! Just be sure to choose a tube jig head poured on a hook with a black nickel finish, as this will resist salt corrosion far better than a standard-fare freshwater-style bronze hook.

A CHANGE-UP FROM BASSLAND

Our pals in the bass fishing world may have an odd accent and fish out of sparkly boats, but they do have a knack for coming up with some unique lure designs. One of them has proven to be a

silver killer: the chatterbait. The chatterbait is basically a metal blade attached to a jig that bass anglers use to cast and retrieve through weedbeds. When we first spotted one on a store shelf, my pals and I chuckled at this creation. But after talking to a friend who used them with great success for northern pike, we began to wonder if this goofy-looking bait would trigger a salmon bite. After purchasing a few blades and playing with different jig styles, we found the right combo for silvers a few years ago. The trick to making a coho-killing chatterbait is having the proper-sized split ring that can move freely in the jig eye and a jig head with a turned eye. This will ensure the blade can swing freely from side to side during the retrieve. Be it a marabou jig, swimbait or squid skirt mounted behind the blade, this combo has truly become the ultimate change-up lure for silvers. Nothing else swims or vibrates quite like it. When you’re bored over the winter, tune into a bass tournament once in a while, as you might just stumble upon the next silver slayer!

This collection of lures, featuring skirted spinners and even a modified chatterbait from the bass fishing world, can all do the trick against silvers, which the author describes as “frequently a moody lot.” (BRIAN KELLY)

A SALMON SUPERSTAR Coho truly have the most unique personality in the Oncorhynchus family – curious enough to chase a retrieve to the rod tip and feisty enough to test your reel’s drag – these fish are often a chess match in between the kamikaze bites silvers are famous for. Bring the right lure selection and keep an open mind, because silvers will change preferences throughout the tide change. Once you find what makes their brain click, stick with it and enjoy the ride! ASJ

For Kelly, leaving his Pennsylvania home for a chance to score some of the most cunning and coveted fish Alaska has to offer is a great incentive. He calls fishing for them a “chess match.” (BRIAN KELLY) 34

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

ALASKA ANCHORAGE Anchorage Yamaha Suzuki Marine 3919 Spenard Rd (907) 243-8343 www.anchorageyamaha.com FAIRBANKS Northern Power Sports 1980 Van Horn Rd (907) 452-2762 www.northernpowersports.com

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

NOSH ON NUSH KINGS TIPS FOR FISHING BRISTOL BAY’S FAMED SALMON RIVER BY SCOTT HAUGEN

’ve been fortunate to fish the Nushagak River quite a bit over the past 15 years, and I love it for two reasons. First, the Nushagak receives one of the largest runs of king salmon in the world. Second, the river can be fished multiple ways, which not only makes it fun, but educational. My favorite time to hit the Nush is June 12 to 22. While storms and rough water can keep you in camp for a day or so this early in the season, it’s these big storms combined with strong tidal pushes that bring in tens of thousands of king salmon at a time. Be in the right place at the right time, and catching high numbers of kings can happen.

PLUG WRAPS AND SKIRTS

The first time I fished wrapped and skirted plugs with longtime friend and noted guide Austin Moser (austinsnorthwestadventures.com), my eyes were opened to just how impactful a seemingly minimal change can be. On that morning I fished a sardine-wrapped, pink-skirted Mag Lip and Moser ran a K-16 Kwikfish with just a wrap. I landed and released 14 kings to his one before he switched to what I fished. When Moser handed me a Mag Lip 4.5 wrapped with eggs and a pink squid skirt attached to the trailing hook, I didn’t know what to say. He’d attached a 2½-inch P-Line Sunrise Squid skirt to the plug by removing the trailing hook, sliding the skirt over the eye of a siwash hook – single hooks are required on the

Author Scott Haugen has enjoyed fishing throughout Alaska for 30 years, and he ranks king salmon on the Nushagak River atop his list of favorites. Here he hoists a keeper king taken on his favorite plug setup, a 4.5 Mag Lip wrapped with a sardine fillet and tipped with a pink squid skirt. (SCOTT HAUGEN) aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

FIELD

Here’s a “pretty revolutionary” idea, in cookbook author Tiffany Haugen’s words: Stuff half an avocado with salmon and then bake it. (TIFFANY HAUGEN)

FILL YOUR AVOCADOS WITH LOVE BY TIFFANY HAUGEN

pring is here, and whether you’re targeting king salmon on a river, pike in a thawing pond or planter rainbow trout in a lake, this is a tasty recipe that’ll fit with all of them. And it’s perfect if you’re looking to clean out the freezer of some of last season’s sockeye, coho or bottomfish.

In this example, I used silver salmon. Rather than make a special trip to the store, I like using ingredients I already have on hand and encourage you to do the same. If you want to make some substitutions based on taste or what you do or don’t have handy, go for it. In my opinion, baking an avocado is pretty revolutionary, and what you top it with is simply the “icing on the cake.”

SMOKED SALMON-STUFFED AVOCADOS

Two ripe avocados ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese ½ cup flaked smoked salmon ⅓ cup chopped tomatoes ¼ tablespoon fire roasted diced green chilis 1 teaspoon black pepper Chop tomatoes, removing and discarding any seeds, and pat dry. In a medium bowl, gently mix cheese, salmon, tomatoes, chilis and pepper. Halve avocados, remove pits and carefully remove from the skin if desired. 38

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Place avocado halves on a baking sheet and stuff with equal portions of the smoked fish mixture. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling. Serve warm with cilantro cream.

CILANTRO CREAM

¼ cup sour cream or plain yogurt 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon honey Dash of salt Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until thoroughly combined. Editor’s note: For signed copies of Tiffany’s popular book, Cooking Seafood and other best-selling titles, visit tiffanyhaugen.com.

FIELD

fore I go fishing so I don’t have to waste time doing it on the river,” Moser notes. Using the same stretchy thread as on plugs, Moser ran 30 to 36 wraps around each egg cluster as he rolled it around in his hand, drawing the skein tight on itself. This created a firm, great-looking bait that held up well in the heavy and fast-moving water.

DRIFT BOBBER BONUS

Drift bobbers are an important part of bait fishing for king salmon on the Nushagak. This side drifting setup started with eggs and was topped with a Lil’ Corky, which adds color, movement and buoyancy to a presentation. (SCOTT HAUGEN)

Nushagak – and reattached the hook to the plug by way of a barrel swivel. This dropped the skirt back from the plug, thereby increasing the skirt’s action. “A lot of people wrap plugs with sardines, herring, and anchovies, but done right, egg wraps can fish really well,” Moser offers. “Just be sure to place the loose side of the skein against the plug, then wrap away.”

FISHING EGGS

The Nushagak is also an ideal egg fishery. Whether you’re drift fishing, backbouncing, side drifting or dragging cured eggs, the action can outperform any plug fishing you’ve experienced. The key with fishing eggs on the Nushagak comes down to reading the water, knowing 40

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

what approach to use, where, and having well-cured eggs that will maintain their color and form. The Nush is fast and the gravel bottom is hard on eggs in places. “If you’re fishing eggs with big, developed berries, wrapping them really helps when drift fishing or dragging,” Moser shares. “Not only does wrapping egg clusters tighten them up so they hold together longer, but it will extend their longevity.” On the Nush you’re targeting king salmon in the 15- to 30-pound class, so using egg clusters about the size of a table tennis ball is ideal, and this fits nicely on a 4/0 or 5/0 octopus hook. “For drifting and dragging, I’ll usually wrap a couple dozen eggs the night be-

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Drift bobbers are a key piece of gear when it comes to fishing eggs for kings. Drift bobbers achieve multiple tasks, and each is equally important. A drift bobber such as a Spin-N-Glo, Lil’ Corky or Cheater adds lift to your hook and eggs. This lift not only reduces hangups when fishing eggs, but it also increases visibility. Keying in on as many senses as you can when salmon fishing greatly boosts success rates. Movement of the drift bobber in the Nushagak’s fast current creates a visual awareness, something that’s important in the turbid waters. Two feet of visibility is normal, especially following a storm, so the more color and movement you can add to a presentation, the better. When running spinning drift bobbers like a Spin-N-Glo, putting a few beads – even a Lil’ Corky– below it will help maintain its action. The current is so strong in this river that as a spinning drift bobber rotates, it can bury into the egg cluster and kill its action. Beads or a Lil’ Corky will keep the spinning drift bobber above the eggs and ensure its action. What size drift bobbers you use will depend on the size of your hook. A rule of thumb is to use as large of a drift bobber as possible without covering the point of the hook. MORE KING OPTIONS We’ve also done pretty good on lures when fishing kings on the Nush. Rooster Tails and Blue Fox spinners have performed best for me in the evenings when kings move into slackwater settings. I’ve not had the success I’d hoped for in faster water, but spinner fishing is not my strong suit. Tipping a 1-ounce Rooster Tail with a 4-inch pink plastic worm

Inland Boats & Motors SERVING YOU SINCE 1975

111 N. Kittitas St. Ellensburg, WA • 509-925-1758 www.inlandboatsandmotors.com • HOURS: M-F

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

9-5:30pm

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

FIELD

Tiffany Haugen, the author’s wife and From Field to Fire coauthor, and guide Austin Moser are all smiles over this bright king, one of 143 Tiffany and Scott caught on this day. They caught and released kings using seven different approaches.

(SCOTT HAUGEN)

has been my top performer. We’ve also fished bobber and eggs with good results up and down this river. I don’t care how old you are, watching a bobber go down never grows old. Plunking is also a great option on the Nushagak. A hefty pyramid sinker will anchor your bait in place in the strong currents close to shore. While you can use eggs when plunking, many folks simply go with a large Spin-N-Glo and rely on its action to entice bites. One evening following a storm that pushed 39,500 kings past the counter in two days, six of us piled into the boat and on multiple occasions had six kings on at a time. The next day four of us went out and landed and released just shy of 200 kings. When you hit it right, it’s easy to see why the Nushagak can be the best king salmon river on the planet. ASJ Editor’s note: For signed copies of Scott Haugen’s best-selling Egg Cures: Proven Recipes & Techniques, visit scotthaugen.com. Follow Scott on Instagram and Facebook.

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

A FAMILY MAD THE SALMON M 44

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

BY BJORN DIHLE

n 2002, when Steve Kurian graduated from college in Pennsylvania, he moved west to Idaho to take a job in forest management. It was there that Steve rented an apartment from an old, crusty commercial Alaska fisherman who told stories of an ocean chock-full of salmon, sea monsters and a real-son-ofa-buzzard white whale that ate one of his crewmembers the season before. Steve wasn’t quite shanghaied, but the old man’s stories were enough to make him quit his job and go setnetting in the Naknek district of Bristol Bay. His then girlfriend and now wife, Jenn – the two have been together since they were 15 – got a job fishing a neighboring setnet. “I loved living by the salmon and the tides, but I couldn’t have picked a tougher guy to fish for. He was relentless. I made $1,400 that season because it was the worst season and price was rock bottom. It only got easier after that,” Steve said.

ADE FOR MECCA

LIVING THE DREAM

Steve and Jenn Kurian are Pennsylvanians who in a chance encounter with a fisherman in Idaho discovered a new life in Alaska’s salmon fishing industry. (STEVE KURIAN)

That first season, Steve and Jenn lived in a shack on a bluff. The young couple reveled in the new adventure, hardy lifestyle and people they met. In a way the region felt raw, even desolate, but then came the biggest run of sockeye salmon left on Earth and the waters and land came alive. It was love at first sight for Steve and Jenn and sockeye. Or, maybe better put, love at first taste. A great bonus of being a fisherman is you get to eat sockeye for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Eating lots of

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

The crew of the Kurians’ fishing boat, Ava Jane, are part of the fisherman-direct salmon businesses the family has started during their time in Bristol. They now run Pride of Bristol Bay, which inspired this column. (STEVE KURIAN)

salmon is so healthy that people in the know prefer going commercial fishing to a fancy spa.

THE SALMON TASTE TEST There is one big point of contention with salmon lovers: which species is the best to eat. It’s almost always a toss-up between king and sockeye. This has ruined many marriages, as well as caused countless fistfights and even multigenerational blood feuds. Many Alaskans, when asked which species of salmon they prefer, change the subject to something less volatile like politics. Steve is willing to put himself out there and stands firm in his love of sockeye. “Sockeye is still my favorite. It’s superior to other salmon in texture and taste,” Steve said.

ALASKA ON MY MIND The fall after that first season fishing, Steve and Jenn returned to their home state of Pennsylvania, where Steve started an arborist business. Despite not making much money in Bristol Bay, Steve missed 46

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

living by the tides and salmon. When he returned the following summer, he captained a driftnet boat. This is no small thing for a second-year fisherman. Jacques Cousteau likened Bristol Bay’s driftnet fishery to a bunch of sharks in a feeding frenzy. It takes real skill and nerves of steel to be successful. Steve liked the new challenges and responsibilities he faced. When asked about the stress, Steve just chuckled. “I was made for Bristol Bay.” At the end of that season, Steve brought home a couple coolers of sockeye fillets. “I was so proud to share them with my family,” Steve said. FAMILY TIES Steve’s dad was a butcher and Steve grew up working in his shop. He learned young to take the utmost care in processing meat to maximize the taste and quality. His family, like anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, loved the sockeye. A friend suggested that Steve should

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

try to sell some of the extra fillets at the local famer’s market. The sockeye was snatched up so quickly that Steve realized that there was a demand for wild Alaskan salmon that wasn’t being met. Steve and Jenn promptly created their business Wild for Salmon (570-3870550; wildforsalmon.com), which offers wild and sustainably caught sockeye and numerous other seafood products to customers ranging from individuals to restaurants to health food markets.

A NEW PROJECT In 2018, the couple bought Pride of Bristol Bay, which is a fisherman-direct seafood marketer company that specializes in delivering Bristol Bay’s sockeye to customers’ doorsteps. Today, Steve takes the same pride in fishing for and processing sockeye that he did 20 years ago when he brought those first couple coolers of fillets home. Jenn is both his business and fishing partner. The couple give 1 percent of their sales to fight for the preservation of wild salmon and are staunch supporters of protecting

Steve loves the chaos of fishing for sockeye alongside so many other fishermen in Alaska. “I was made for Bristol Bay,” he says. (STEVE KURIAN)

Bristol Bay so people, salmon and other species of wildlife can have a future there. By supporting businesses like Wild for Salmon and Pride of Bristol Bay, you get more than just high-quality, delicious and healthy products. You get to take part in directly supporting fishermen and protecting one of the last great fisheries and wildernesses left.

THE LAST FRONTIER BECKONS

Steve, Jenn and their kids spend the offseason back home in Pennsylvania, but around this time of year they look forward to heading to Alaska to share the bounty of Bristol’s salmon runs with their customers. (STEVE KURIAN) 48

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

Steve’s love of Bristol Bay has only grown with time. He and Jenn winter in Pennsylvania with their two young kids, who before too long will be fishing the bay with them. As soon as spring comes, Steve gets that familiar itch to head back to the bay. “When I see the geese fly north, I have to get back to Bristol Bay,” Steve said. ASJ . Editor’s note: Pride of Bristol Bay is a free column written by Bjorn Dihle and provided by its namesake, a fisherman-direct seafood marketer that specializes in delivering the highest quality of sustainably caught wild salmon from Bristol Bay to your doorstep. Go to prideofbristolbay.com for more.

WASHINGTON PASCO Northwest Marine and Sport 2250 Commercial Ave. (509) 545-5586 www.nwmarineandsport.com

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

GUN CARE

All In One Step No product on the market works like PrOlix and we’ve guaranteed it for 34 Years! DRY LUBRICANT • • • • • • •

Improves accuracy Prevents jamming Won’t flash off Will not freeze Non-hazardous Reduces fouling Won’t harm wood, primers, old guns, or stain clothing! • Bio preferred by USDA • Non-petroleum

Goes on wet, cleans, bonds, turns DRY!

Our Dealers offer the BEST and that’s PrOlix®

ProChemCo LLC GUN-OIL / GREASE REPLACER

801-569-2763 800-248-LUBE (5823) www.prolixlubricant.com

GET THE OTHER SHOT RIGHT, TOO A GREAT HUNTING EXPERIENCE ALSO INCLUDES KNOWING HOW TO CAPTURE IT FOREVER BY PAUL D. ATKINS

ost hunters who come to Alaska come for one reason, and that is to capture some of the magic that our great state has to offer. If you live here already, then you already know. But if you’re like me, you may never see it all and if you do, it might only be once. Some save a lifetime to see it, while others take it for granted. One way or another, it will be etched in your mind forever. Memories are all we have anyway, and those memories will be cherished for years to come. Whether it’s the big moose on the wall or the bear in the den, they’re there to remind us of that time we spent in the Alaskan wilderness. However, one thing that is sometimes overlooked is the photos we bring back from the field. When I was younger, I didn’t really care about photos. I wanted meat, horns and claws and the experience of the hunt itself. I still do, but since those days I’ve realized that good photos are as important to me as the trophy itself or the meat in the freezer. They’re not used to brag, but instead to remind me of a time when I hunted hard to bag that big caribou, that risky muskox or whatever I was hunting at the time. I also realized that it isn’t always about the animal.

PHOTOGRAPHY HAS COME a long way in

the last 25 years. When I first came to Alaska back in the 1990s, digital cameras were in their infancy; the old Kodak was about as good as it got, especially those

When you’re taking photos to chronicle your epic hunt, take the time to set up the shot and remember to take several extra snaps just in case. The more you take, the more likely you’ll have at least one shot that will turn out great and create visual memories. (PAUL D. ATKINS) aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

In the smartphone era we now live in, selfies have become all the rage. Our phones can capture and produce those memories that will last a lifetime, and they also provide good conversation pieces on social media. (LEW PAGEL)

“disposable kind” that you dropped in a box at a retail store. I clearly remember doing so after returning from either the Noatak or the Kobuk Rivers. At lunch, usually on a Monday, I would head down to Hanson’s store (the old Safeway store that is no longer standing) here in Kotzebue. I’d drop off my plastic Flash-O-Matic that was filled with memories. I patiently

waited two weeks for those photos to be developed, and was elated to get them when they did arrive – blurred images and all. The first digital camera I ever bought was in 2002. It was an amazing invention: small, slick and easy to use. The camera had a whopping 2-megapixel resolution. It was like magic every time you hit the button.

I remember taking pictures of everything that summer in Kotz. I scoured town in all directions and was amazed at the images I captured. However, and rather quickly, those same cameras became obsolete. There was always a new version that came out – like a 2.0 – but by the time I could get one up here, it too was already outdated. Today it’s much different. Now we

Atkins says every trip should include a snapshot of your camp. “This is probably my favorite photo of all time, and it’s actually the photo that is on the back cover of my book,” he admits. “It was taken up the Kobuk River near the sand dunes. I had no idea Lew took it until we got back home.” (LEW PAGEL) 52

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

“This is me hunting by myself in the country way up north. The area was beautiful, especially the background mix of tundra and mountains. I had my tripod with me and set it up on a timer.” (PAUL D. ATKINS)

“Live-action shots of wildlife are big business. With the right equipment and know-how, you too can take that photo of a lifetime.” (PAUL D. ATKINS)

PICTURE THIS: ATKINS’

“It’s the little moments that count. Buy the best camera you can afford and capture as much of the excitement as possible.” (PAUL D. ATKINS) 54

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

NS’ FAVORITE PHOTOS

“After a long day of searching for moose, this beautiful sky settled over the Kobuk River Delta. It was mesmerizing and something you won’t forget. Capturing images like this will remind you of those times spent afield.” (PAUL D. ATKINS)

“I was standing on the shore taking care of some business, while Lew and my son Eli were searching for the next great pike fishing hole. I was able to capture their search in an authentic photo.” (PAUL D. ATKINS) aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

have DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex) with multiple lens options, mirrorless 4K with battery life that lasts forever – and all with Wi-Fi capability. It’s everything you need to capture that true great photo, provided you know how to use the camera itself. In the right hands, the photos they produce are truly amazing. But there’s a caveat. NOT ALL DIGITAL CAMERAS are created equal. It’s pretty much a personal preference to what a person uses and likes, but if it’s producing good photos, then I say use it. Personally, I have always had great luck with the Canon brand. They’re simple, easy to operate and take great photos, even if you’re a novice. I’ve also used Nikon and even Sony, but those Canon cameras were and are still my favorite. I would also recommend buying one that you can handle at first and then graduate up through a trial-and-error process. Some of my best photos have come from the earlier cameras. They may not have had much pixel strength – think small squares put together like a puzzle to create an image – but they were still magical to see afterwards. And even though today some cameras can produce crystal-clear, 32-plusmegapixel images, those earlier photos are still some of my favorites. With the invention of the smartphone, taking photos has taken on a whole new meaning as well. They’re easy to use, and for most of us accessible at all times. Everyone seemingly carries a phone, and like those early digital cameras they too seem to be improving each year with the introduction of the next best thing. Whip them out, press a few buttons and bam, you not only have great photos, but videos too. They’re truly amazing pieces of technology that seem to get better each day. I have used phone pics for entire articles before and they turned out just as good as a high price camera. THE BIGGEST PROBLEM I see with photography has little to do with the camera, but rather how the photo shots are set up. Proper preparation is the key to great photos. Here are a few tips to make your photos better and to really bring home the memories that all can enjoy: 56

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

• Take a lot of photos. Don’t be afraid to take hundreds of shots. Buy an SD card or cards that can handle a lot of shots. And don’t wait until you get an animal down to get your camera or phone out. The one thing I learned the hard way was I waited until we had an animal down and just focused on the kill shot, or “hero shot,” as it’s sometimes called. It is important; once you start processing your animal and getting him on the frame-pack, there is no going back.

When emotions are high and the moment is fresh, take the time to capture it all if possible. It’s these times that last forever. (SCOTT HAUGEN)

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

What I’m saying is, document your whole adventure – from the time you take off until you return home. Remember, you can never have enough photos and even if some don’t turn out the way you like, you will have plenty more to choose from. • Take the extra time to set up the shot. Now, I’m talking about the hero shot. Depending on the size of the animal, try to position him in a spot that not only provides a great background, but also pays respect to the animal

Introducing the Dragoon QD 350 Titanium Rifle Suppressor from TiON Inc. TiON Inc is proud to introduce the revolutionary Dragoon QD 350 suppressor utilizing Total Breakdown Technology (TBT) and our Gas Indexing Technology (GIT) [U.S. Patent 9,410,761]. GIT allows the rotational orientation of baffles in a given stack providing optimum sound reduction capabilities for the 9mm pistol caliber shot from a rifle. Top rated sound reduction is achieved in the primary .350 Legend and 9mm calibers and very good performance in .300 Blackout. As a bonus the suppressor will achieve good hearing safe performance on .223/5.56mm and .308 Winchester bolt action rifles. In a market where heavy, welded, non-serviceable designs are the norm; the Dragoon distinguishes itself with an all Titanium takedown design. The TiON design with TBT allows the user to remove, clean and service ALL Components. The Dragoon QD 350 suppressor is machined from solid Titanium Bar Stock eliminating any weld failure points creating an extremely durable and light weight suppressor that can be serviced down to the piece parts. Our Quick Disconnect design allows for one handed 2 second mounting/removal and achieves total repeatability of shot group. This QD design and smallest suppressor diameter in the industry facilitates sliding under many metal firearm forends with short barrels for fast attachment without the need to have a removable forend section. Seven QD mounts and flash hider/mounts are available in 13.5X1LHM, 1/2X28, 5/8X24 and 9/16X24 threads. All our mounts are Titanium adding to the unsurpassed light weight of the suppressor.

DRAGOON .350 QD TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Caliber:

Optimized for Rifles & Pistols with Braces chambered in 9mm and .350 Legend. Secondarily, it performs very well with .22LR, .300 Blackout. Bonus, Hearing safe on bolt action 5.56mm & .308Win rifles.

Finish:

Black, FDE Cerakote and Clear Cerakote Gunmetal Finish

Length:

8.0 inches

Diameter: 1.375 inches Weight:

12.2 oz. Sound Pressure Level (Mil-Std 1474D Test @ 1 meter) 9mm 147gr Winchester Train & Defend 16” BBL 121dB .350 Legend 255gr Winchester Subsonic 16” BBL 133dB .300 Blackout 220gr Remington Subsonic 16” BBL 130dB

Material: 6AL-4V Annealed Titanium QD Spring – Stainless Compression Bushing - Brass MSRP: $1285.00 Additional Mounts MSRP: $125.00 to $160.00

www.tioninc.com Call: (717) 227-9060 suppressors@tioninc.com

You have to love the authentic boots-in-the-water photo. “We weren’t catching much when I hooked into a big chum,” Atkins says. “Lew (Pagel) was watching from the boat and had his camera out.” Atkins also celebrated a salmon catch. (LEW PAGEL)

photos from all angles. But the best typically have the hunter behind the itself. Tuck his legs up under him and clean off as much blood as possible. animal, but not too far back. Most like results usually come from those taken at ground level. to hold the antlers or at least touch the And the biggest thing is to check and Have your photog lie on the ground animal in some way or form. make sure the critter’s tongue is inside and get as close to you and your animal • Pay attention to the sun. If it’s midday his mouth. I see this a lot in photos, as possible. Think close and low for these and the sun is out, a cap will shade the and I cringe, as do a lot of other people. shots. If you are alone, then bring along a hunter’s face. Take several pics with and Anyway, do whatever it takes to make tripod and position it as low as possible. without headwear. You can also use the him look natural and presentable. I always Just make sure you check for twigs and camera to eliminate hat shadows by carry wet wipes or paper towels for this. stray strands of grass. I always bring along forcing it to flash. I’ve been on a lot of hunts • Positioning yourself. When people a small tripod just in case all else fails. where I tagged out in the middle of the day, look at your pictures, you want them to • Trophy photos are not the only thing but by using the camera’s flash it created see a happy hunter – or hunters – with you should focus on. Take some shots of some of my best photos. a hard-earned trophy. Take the time your camp, the surroundings, and live • Taking the photos. Usually you to clean your hands and tidy up a bit. animal shots if possible. If nothing else, will have one of your hunting partners Also remove any extra gear that might you’ll capture the little things that make snapping the pictures. This may seem make its way into the photo, including the adventure more memorable. You’ll simple, but I have seen more wrecks backpacks or extra clothes that you have be glad you did. For longtime friend and than successes. First, your buddy must shed. They need to be pushed aside. hunting partner Lew and myself, it has be familiar with your camera. Take a few Remember that anything that is not part always been a game of “not knowing.” moments and show how the zoom and of the habitat will stick out. Also never sit What I mean by this is that we like to the flash work and what button to push. on an animal; it may look disrespectful take photos of each other doing different You’ll also want him or her to take several to some. The best shots are those that 58

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

tasks in camp or while hunting. It truly captures the moment. When you get back home, you are always glad, surprised and happy to see them. THERE ARE A LOT OF other techniques to becoming a better photographer, but the aforementioned six basic tips will have you on your way to producing topnotch images. It’s all about memories. If nothing else, remember this: The photo you don’t take is the one you should have. ASJ Editor’s note: Paul Atkins is an outdoor writer and author from Kotzebue, Alaska. He’s had hundreds of articles published on big game hunting in Alaska and throughout North America and Africa, plus surviving in the Arctic. His new book, Atkins’ Alaska, is available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon and everywhere good books are sold. It can also be ordered via his website (paulatkinsoutdoors.com). If The moments of triumph and failure, the scenery you want an autographed copy from Paul, and the crazy encounters you have on an Alaskan email him at atkinsoutdoors@gmail.com. outdoor adventure will be cherished forever once they’re on film. “Setting up the shot with a great Atkins is a regular contributor to Alaska background and that is perfectly framed is what Sporting Journal. you’re shooting for,” Atkins says. (SCOTT HAUGEN) Get a legendary chain saw

for under $300 for under $300

Get a legendary chain saw

for under $300

HAINES

Canal Marine Co.

619 Union St, Haines, AK 99827 • (907) 766-2437 • www.canalmarinecompany.com

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

HUNGRY BEARS WELCOME FROM POPCORN TO DOG FOOD, HOW TO ATTRACT A BRUIN WITH TANTALIZING SCENTS (SECOND OF TWO PARTS) BY BRIAN WATKINS

f you read my bear baiting tips in last month’s issue, you have hopefully found a good location and got your stand set up. That is 75 percent of the battle of a successful spring bruin hunt. The rest of my tips below cover how to manage your stand for success.

CALLING CARDS “Call” baits are essential. They do exactly what their name suggests: they call bears in, albeit by their nose. They are potent smells that carry scent for quite a distance. You can find products online. I use Bait Em 907 products, as they have consistently brought bears in for me. Brown bears love beavers. I get beavers from trappers and store them in a 5-gallon Home Depot bucket. The castor on their scent glands is what brown bears are attracted to, but I leave the beavers in the sun in a closed bucket. The rotten smell will make your eyes water, but beavers are the first thing brown bears go to. Meanwhile, black bears love them some spearmint and anise, so you can literally put spearmint toothpaste all over and that will bring them in.

SCENT UP Another trick I implement is to put scent on bear trails. Let the bears do the work. Put ground cover in every one of their prints. As I said last month, bears step in the same footprints as they walk, so put molasses, syrup, jello powder, vanilla

A bowhunting fan, author Brian Watkins has taken plenty of brown and black bears using bait stations. (BRIAN WATKINS) aksportingjournal.com | MAY 2021

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

A bucket that can be purchased at hardware stores can be used to store beaver carcasses, which will attract plenty of bears.

(BRIAN WATKINS)

extract, grease – anything that will hold smell – in their tracks. I also put molasses all over the barrel so bears carry it on their hide. And I put it on trees close to their trail for the same reason. Just remember, anything that isn’t biodegradable will have to be picked up at the end of season.

Dog food makes for an affordable scent that bruins will be attracted to. Popcorn is also one of Watkins’ choices. “It isn’t very filling and takes a while to eat,” he writes. (BRIAN WATKINS)

Hold bears and keep them coming back with food. I use popcorn, as it isn’t very filling and takes a while to eat. The bears stay around longer. Dog food fills the bears up quickly and holds the nutrients they crave this time of year. For a cheaper option, you can hit up restaurants for their thrown-away food. Watkins likes to use various scents. “Put molasses, syrup, jello powder, vanilla extract, grease – anything that will hold smell” on nearby bear trails, he writes. (BRIAN WATKINS)

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

I have hit up fast food places and sifted through their trash. You can contact other shops and ask them to separate prior to picking up.

THINK LIKE A BEAR Now, I want you to picture yourself in a new city. You are on edge and observe everything. You’re out of your element and things feel strange. This is the same feeling a bear will have coming into a bait site for the first few times. Hunters who are new to baiting always tell me how they sit without bears having hit it yet. There’s this fallacy that you can set a bait and bears will be all over it. That’s simply not true. Baits take time to get “hot.” Sometimes it may take weeks or even months. I don’t even check a new bait for the first week that I put it in. When I do check it, I stay as far away as possible and observe if anything has been taken. When I stock a bait, I will put sticks in the hole of the barrel. That way I don’t have to get close and leave scent while checking a game camera. If the sticks are removed, then I will check a camera. Never sit on a bait that hasn’t been hit. New bears will circle that bait and if you’re there, they won’t be again. Let them check out your “new city.” Let them eat a few times and get comfortable. Then wait for the wind to be right and sneak in.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Watkins (right) and a friend with a black bear they took bowhunting at a bait site. He counsels that 75 percent of a successful baiting hunt is in your location and setting up properly. (BRIAN WATKINS)

Pistol Bullets and Ammunition Zero Bullet Company, Inc.

ZER 66

ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL

P.O. Box 1188 Cullman, AL 35056 Tel: 256-739-1606 Fax: 256-739-4683 Toll Free: 800-545-9376 www.zerobullets.com

MAY 2021 | aksportingjournal.com

As I said last issue, don’t stalk before you sit unless it’s necessary. Black bears will cross your path and hesitate. Generally, they will still commit to coming in. If you’re after brown bears, they will leave for the night. And I want to re-emphasize another of my previous statements: I also manage who comes to my site. One of my favorite things to do is bring new hunters to a bear baiting hunt, as it's fun and exciting for them. But I don’t allow them to walk around. I put them on stand and keep their scent to a minimum. Don’t bring a dog with you and let them run around either. Less is always better. I will scent around a bear bait the first couple of times I am there to bring bears in. Spray higher up trees so the wind carries the scent better. And walk trails to get the scent further out. Once bears come in, I stop. They will carry their own scents. Good luck to all seasoned and new bear baiters this spring! Stay safe and may you bag the bear of your dreams. ASJ