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| These guys were both around 14 pounds! |
I just got back from salmon fishing in Alaska on the Alagnak river. It took four plane flights, the crossing of three time zones and the longest domestic flight I've ever taken, but it was definitely worth the journey. Silver, Pink, and Chum salmon were running the river to spawn for the fall. The count of salmon running the river was around 3 million by the time we arrived to the lodge. One spot we fished was so thick with salmon that it was hard not to foul hook the fish. All you had to do was cast the line, give a jerk and you had one in the back or fin. The salmon ran about 12-14 pounds a piece. Combine that with a swift running current and you've got yourself a good fight to get them in the boat.
Now, if only I liked to eat fish! No worry though. Andrea LOVES salmon and now has 17 pounds of it in the freezer. And by the look in her eyes when I mention sharing, I think she might put a padlock on the freezer. It was also a great time with family. Being with the men of Andrea's family was a great experience. I loved watching Andrea's grandpa (who organized the whole trip) smile softly as he fished, soaking in all the memories with his family. It was his party, and you could tell he was loving it.
Time with family, wilderness as far as the eye can see, and respectfully harvesting beautiful meat for the winter... what a great gift.
