24 Bald Eagles, 6 Seal, 1 Cutthroat Trout

Unfortunately I was unable to update my blog last night as I had planned. I am having alot of computer issues right now.

Yesterday was my first day off, and It was quite an amazing day. I packed myself a lunch and the tools I would need for my long day on the river. I left the dock at about 12pm(Alaska time) because high tide would aid me through a specific part of the river that one cannot pass simply because it is too shallow. As I started down the river, seal would follow me and pop out of the water and almost laugh, then return under. I fished on my way out to the spot that was suggested by the fishing crew. The only thing I could land though were small perch. It was a thrill none the less to have any size fish tugging on my tackle on my first fishing experience here. It was without a doubt the most peaceful place I have ever witnessed. As I moved down the river a little further, I finally experienced my first close encounter with a Bald Eagle. As my canoe quietly cut through the water, the eagle glided along side my boat about 15 feet to my right along the water as if it were riding shotgun. My heart sunk in my chest. It was one of 24 + Bald Eagles that would follow my boat as I fished. It felt like I was in another world-a sanctuary. I fished for the next 5 hours. About 1 hour into my day, I caught my very first Cutthroat Trout. It was a 14 inch fish, which met the Alaskan State regulations to take home. However I released the fish assuming that if I was only in my first hour of fishing, there were many more to come. Sockeyes are beginning their run this week, so I was prepared to bring home a larger meal. That however would be the last fish of the day. Despite the slow day of fishing, it was the most incredible day of fishing to date for me. I did not take my camera in the canoe, but will be heading out into much deeper water on the large boats with the guides next week. The entire staff has an off week, so we are going to be taking all the boats out and have a staff fishing tournament. This is where the big fish come into play- 40-300 lb fish, if not bigger. I will have more updates soon, dependent upon my computer. I miss you all. Walt, if you're reading this, If they had racquetball courts out here I would invite you out. Of course you'd have to bring your sports bra. Panzy