fishing in alaska salmon

Planning Your Alaska Fishing Trip | Winning Tips For A Successful Adventure

Whether you are a die-hard fly-fishing purist or just fancy yourself as an avid angler, make sure to pin Alaska as your next fishing destination, as the waters here are one of the best places on earth to cast a line in.

We’ve done the “when, where, and how” legwork for your dream Alaska fishing trip, so read on to find out more!

Before You Go (Research, Research!)

view of fishing spot in alaska

There are multiple types of fishing in different Alaskan locations throughout the year, so deciding on the species you want to catch is a good way to start.

Fishing charters and guided tours get booked very early, so do a research to find the one you are looking for and plan your trip well in advance.

Fishing charters for salmon and halibut can also be boarded for various ports of call on an Alaskan cruise, as well as freshwater fishing on overland cruise trips, for those willing to pay the price. Cruise guests also get to sample the diverse wild wonders of the 49th state, often just minutes away from where the cruise ship leaves port.

Types Of Fish In Alaska

SOCKEYE SALMON

From halibut and rainbow trout to grayling and more, Alaska certainly has some of the best fishing in the world, with the obvious trophy contender for most being the most sought after being wild salmon, one of the tastiest fish on planet Earth!

There are five species of salmon found in Alaska, each of which spawn typically from late Spring To Fall. So, do your research on the best time to pursue whichever fish is your main target.

  • Chum (Dog) Salmon
  • Sockeye Salmon
  • Coho Salmon
  • Chinook Salmon
  • Pink Salmon

Never waste a fish! If you catch a fish that is outside the size limits, or something you simply don’t want to keep, release it gently and quickly.

Performance Fishing Shirts From N1 Outdoors!

sockeye salmon in hand

Alaska is home to a plethora of fish species. Below is a list of the top 5 you may choose to pursue, as well as the best times of year to catch them.

  • Salmon: May to September
  • Halibut: March to October
  • Rainbow Trout: June to September
  • Rockfish: Round the year
  • Dolly Vardenf Trout: July to October

While peak season runs from May to September, you can fish year-round in Alaska, providing you are willing to try new species and locations. In addition, there is ice fishing on the frozen lakes in winter.

You need a fishing license to fish in Alaska, which can be arranged right on board your cruise vessel or online. For more details, visit the website of Alaska Department of Fish & Game.

Bagenerous 39L Fishing Tackle Backpack with Rod Holders & Cooler,Water-resistant Fishing Gear Storage Bag with Protective Rain Cover,Khaki
Bagenerous 39L Fishing Tackle Backpack with Rod Holders & Cooler,Water-resistant Fishing Gear Storage Bag with Protective Rain Cover,Khaki
$85.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
08/03/2025 02:03 pm GMT

Best Fishing Locations In Alaska

Whether you’re an avid fishermen or just a casual caster, you can find a place to fish almost anywhere in Alaska where there is water.

Freshwater Fishing Locations In Alaska

Below are some of the locations you should consider for freshwater fishing in Alaska:

1. The Kenai River is considered one of the world’s best sportfishing rivers, and is renowned for chinook (king salmon) runs.

  • Species: Chinook (King) salmon, sockeye salmon, silver salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden. 
  • Accessibility: Multiple access points for bank fishing, boat launches, and established campgrounds. 

2. The Nushagak River is an excellent Alaskan fishing location that provides excellent opportunities for both salmon and trout.

  • Species: All five species of Pacific salmon (Chinook, sockeye, chum, coho, and pink), along with rainbow trout, arctic grayling, and Dolly Varden.
  • Accessibility: Primarily accessible by floatplane, and providing a more remote and wilderness fishing experience. 

3. The Kasilof River is a shallow and milky-colored river that offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for fly fishing enthusiasts.

  • Species: King salmon, especially during the early season.
  • Accessibility: Accessible by road and boat, with numerous access points along the river. 

4. The Situk River is a popular river for salmon fishing and is also a popular spot for fly fishing.

  • Species: Salmon (Chinook, sockeye, coho), rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden.
  • Accessibility: Accessible by road and boat, includng several established campgrounds and other access points. 

5. The Innoko River is located in the interior of Alaska and offers a more remote fishing experience with fewer crowds.

  • Species: Northern pike, arctic grayling, and other species.
  • Accessibility: Primarily accessible by floatplane, requiring a more adventurous trip. 

Saltwater Fishing In Alaska

For the best saltwater fishing, The Inside Passage has endless possibilities, while Ketchikan is considered the salmon capital of the world. Juneau, Wrangeli, Haines, Petersburg, Sitka and Skagway are some other key fishing getaways to coastal fishing in Alaska.

Fishing in Interior Alaska and Arctic Alaska is also a consideration, but these regions are primarily accessed only by air and riverboats.

Incredible RodTogs™ Fishing Rod Wraps!

Getting started (The Gear You’ll Need)

Here is some of the essential fishing gear you will need for your Alaska trip:

  • Fishing rod, reel and tackle (well, obviously, but don’t forget to bring the appropriate rod/reel and lures for the species of fish you’ll be pursuing! Also, the appropriate type of fishing line).
  • Alaska fishing license
  • Clothing you can layer (this would include synthetic long underwear, long-sleeve shirts, and waterproof outer layers).
  • Rain gear (no one wants to be wet and cold, right?)
  • Wool socks (keep those feet and toes warm!)
  • Cold weather hats (much of your body heat escapes from the head)
  • Gloves
  • Polarized sun glasses
  • Waterproof bag (especially for your video equipment, if you plan to do any filming of your trip)
  • Pocket knife (you never know when you’ll need one!)
  • Insect repellant (yes, even Alaska has bugs, and you’ll want to have repellant, especially in the Summer months)

Now, Go Fish!

Alaska boasts not only some of the best fishing opportunities in the United States, but also some of the most majestic wildlife and scenery in the world. Do your research, gear up and go fish! Oh, and be sure to send us some fishing pictures!

man with green night vision equipment

Color Is Key | Why Is Night Vision Green?

Over the last couple of decades, our lives have changed rapidly. The technological leap humanity has made is truly impressive if you consider how many different once unthinkable technologies are now deeply rooted in our everyday life.

Night vision devices may not be as mainstream yet as smart phones and the internet, but even if you have never had experience using them, you are likely somewhat familiar with them. Video games and movies have firmly rooted in our imagination this magical green glow, which is closely associated with the ability to see in the dark.

But why is that? Why is this glow green, and what technology made it the perfect solution? Well, let’s take a closer look…

Night Vision and The Reasons for Green

The main reason for using that familiar green color in night vision devices is the unique structure of the human eye.

human eye up close

The retina contains photoreceptor cells, some designed to function in low-light conditions (these are called rod cells). Their peculiarity is their increased sensitivity to light, with a wavelength of about 500 nanometers, corresponding to green color.

Due to the presence of rod cells in the retina, the visual system better perceives the different shades of green in the dark. This makes this color an ideal option for displaying images on night optics displays.

Guarantees High Image Clarity

In most cases, night vision optics are used in conditions where they have to capture every photon of light. This is the only way to create a high-quality, valuable image for the user.

night vision deer

Green is less scattered in the atmosphere than red, blue, or any other color, which means the device can receive more source data to create a clear picture on the screen.

As mentioned earlier, human eyes perceive the most shades of green. So, this also helps to create a visually brighter and clearer image, in which the user can see all the small details.

Less Eye Strain

The compatibility of human vision with the color green makes it the safest option. It creates strain on the eyes than red, blue, yellow, orange, and other colors. This protects the human visual system from functioning at the limit of its capabilities and reduces the likelihood of eye pain and other various problems like lacrimation, decreased visual acuity, etc.

person seeing in the dark

In conditions of insufficient light, a person perceives green better. This allows the reduction of the load and the prevention of rapid eye fatigue. This is especially important during prolonged use of night optics, when there is may be no opportunity to take a short break. In such conditions, a green image allows for comfortable observation and searching for something in the dark.

If you were to use another color, discomfort would increase, and prolonged use of night optics would be a potentially unsafe activity.

T-Shirts For Deer Hunters From N1 Outdoors

Presence of phosphor screens in the design

Another reason for using green was the presence of a phosphor screen in the design of many devices. This screen It is an integral part of night optics, which operates on the principle of light amplification.

night vision city

Phosphor screens have long been indispensable design elements of night vision equipment. Because of this, green has been considered the primary color in night optics for many years, and many users have become accustomed to it. Therefore, even with alternative options, green has remained the standard color.

In the design of NV glasses, binoculars, monoculars and sights, the phosphor screen caters to accelerated electrons. When they hit it, a flash of light with a wavelength of 500-550 nanometers occurs. This flash of light corresponds to the green color that users see.

Traditionally Green

Because green has been the standard color for night optics for years, some manufacturers continue to adhere to produce many models with that familiar glow.

Now, that doesn’t mean that manufacturers have stopped searching for alternative options. Nevertheless, green is still the most popular and continues to drive the demand.

ATN X-Sight 5 Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
ATN X-Sight 5 Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
$764.02
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
08/03/2025 02:03 pm GMT

Options for using green night vision

Because green is the most popular night vision color, the slaes of night vision goggles, thermal monoculars, and other night vision equipment utilizing this color allow for higher manufacturer revenue.

So, in essence, the color green produces more “green” for the manufacturers!

night vision binoculars military use

Because green allows for the most prolonged usage with the least amount of eye strain, it is indispensable for use in the military, law enforcement, security, rescue, and dozens of other professions.. And, as previously noted, the green also helps the user to see small details, even in images of lower quality.

In everyday life, green night vision is also used in 24-hour video surveillance cameras. Its use allows for quick identification of strangers, and detection of various problems, like fires. It also great for enjoying moonlight entertainment, and the observation and even hunting of predators.

What other types of night vision are there?

Thanks to the development of technology, alternative night vision colors are available, and each is effective in particular scenarios.

Black and White Night Vision

The so-called white phosphor night vision devices are gaining popularity most quickly. They allow you to get a black and white image on the display, which some people may perceive better than green. Its main advantage is its natural look. The image looks similar to that of old films, which is more familiar than a picture in green tones. Also, the black and white version provides excellent detail.

Multi-Color Night Vision

Multi-color night vision (not to be confused with thermal) is another popular way to get good visibility in the dark. It is used exclusively in modern optics models, which are often very expensive. In these devices, different shades are obtained through special image processing algorithms.

Green Still Great In Night Vision

A green image on the screen of night optics has been the standard for years, and has come to be known mainstream as “the night vision color.”

Even though modern devices will now allow you to see a black and white or even multi-color image, green still rules the day and will be a favorite of millions of night vision users for years to come.

hiker on a peak

Pack For Adventure | 8 Things To Take On Your Hiking Trip

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, Hiking

A hiking trip can involve incredible adventure.

Beautiful sights, the thrill of conquering a peak, or traversing bottomland are just a few of the many escapades that await.

But, while imagining your final destination can captivate the imagination… you first need to prepare for the trip!

hiking family

It can be rather challenging to be ready and at the same time pack only what is necessary… which is why this guide was created.

And while you want to be sure you have everything you need, you also don’t want to take so much that you feel like your backpack is fighting you every step of the way!

So, whether you’re taking an ambitious hike or a more leisurely stroll, let’s cover 8 things to take on your hiking adventure!

First, Assess The Trip

The first thing that needs to be assessed when deciding what to take hiking is the level of the hike’s toughness as well as its duration.

For example, a 10-mile walk may sound like a fun adventure, but if you usually take short, relaxed strolls, it’s advisable to take an easy trail.

Also, don’t forget to pay attention to the climate and the weather conditions of your target hiking destination. Will you be walking through a hot, barren wasteland, or a shady area such as a forest?

hiking plan

Knowing the details of the environment you will be hiking will also assist in making sure you pack adequately and not forgetting essential items like clothes, hats, or umbrellas. In the same way, being knowledgeable about the destination will keep you from overpacking.

The choice of what backpack to take is also important insofar as comfort is concerned because it affects how the body load is distributed and how it causes tension.

The other aspect of preparation is goals and objectives, which should be achievable. Though you may envision climbing high mountains, starting with some easier mountains is wise for gaining experience and confidence.

Essential Items for Every Hike

Now that you’ve assessed your hiking destination, let’s take a look at some specific items you can take on your trek…

1. Navigational Items

Navigational items should be staples you take with you hiking, even if you are traversing a familiar area.

compass and map

Trails can often appear very similar, and a hiker could very well find oneself on the wrong trail and lost. So, when planning to go out, ensure you have at least a paper map of the area and be sure to and study it to know the terrain and location of the area you will be in.

Now, before you downplay the use of paper maps, keep in mind that a smartphone with GPS is certainly handy, but also unreliable, particularly in places with poor network or low battery charge. Therefore, a paper map and a simple compass should always be carried along in your pack.

On the other hand, if you take a GPS device with you, be sure to familiarize yourself with it’s usage, as it could certainly come in handy if you are to get lost or if you find yourself in a survival situation.

2. Mini Whiteboard

A mini whiteboard may not be an object that people think of when they make a list of what to take hiking, but it can actually come in very handy. For one, it can also be used to leave messages in an emergency. It can also be beneficial when one of the members in the hiking group has a weak voice or is unable to speak loudly enough due to weather conditions.

Miniature white boards can also have a more functional purposes, such as mapping or writing directions about the trail, or to making a list of things to do.

Some hikers like to take notes, and while some hikers bring along a journal, others prefer a mini whiteboard because it’s portable, reusable, and easily accessible. It’s a smart accessory for any hiker to be well-organized and safe on the trail.

Hiking Apparel from N1 Outdoors®

3. Hiking Sticks

Hiking sticks (also known as trekking poles) can be helpful, especially when the ground is hard, steep, wet, and muddy.

They relieve pressure on your knees, increase your steadiness, and enable you to regulate your speed, which is especially important when going downhill.

hikers with poles

Though a branch can be used in the worst case scenario, contemporary hiking sticks are produced from lightweight but very strong materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum, have handles, and come in sizes that are easily adjustable, depending on the ground’s surface.

4. Clothing and Footwear

It’s essential to wear appropriate clothing for the climate and the ground conditions. Earing multiple layers of clothing can help you regulate body temperature as needed. In the same way, moisture-wicking fabrics help keep sweat and moisture away from the skin, making it easier to evaporate.

When going for a hike during the day, long sleeved, light colored clothes can help with sun protection and anti-mosquito clothing helps keep those pesky bugs at bay.

hiking boots on feet

The type of shoes you wear should also be suitable for the specific conditions present on the terrain. Trail runners or sandals may be enough for short, level terrains, whereas for rough or muddy terrains, sturdy shoes with high ankle support are best.

Be sure you wear them beforehand to break them in, to prevent painful blisters while on the trail.

Men, good hiking boots info… right HERE!

5. Sun Protection

hiking sun

UV rays can be extreme, even on a cloudy day, and especially in high altitudes. So, skin protection should not be considered just a luxury, but a necessity.

You need to be sure to take a sunblock with a high SPF number, SPF lip balm, and UV-blocking sunglasses in your checklist. A hat or cap with a wide brim also protects the face and the back of the neck from the sun. Be sure to reapply sunscreen frequently if you are sweating or in wet conditions.

6. Headlamp

If you’re planning a day hike, you might not think of taking a headlamp. However, it’s small, compact, and could be the only apparatus that helps you get home in one piece.

It’s good to be aware that in forests and valleys, it can get darker sooner than in open areas. Also, if a you end up staying on the trail too late, hiking out becomes much more dangerous, as you may not be able to adequately see the trail or obstacles on the way.

So, a good waterproof headlamp allows the hands to remain free and yet keep the trail adequately illuminated. It’s also advisable to carry spare batteries before you embark on the trip.

7. First Aid Kit

A small first aid kit should be part of every hiker’s gear. It should at least contain adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, gauze, and tweezers.

There may be other items you will want to add, like medications, allergic reaction treatments, or insect sting kits.

8. Food

Were you wondering if we were ever going to get to food?

Depending on the length and difficulty of your hike, you will need the appropriate amount of calories. In general, good hiking foods will be shelf-stable, lightweight and be packed with nutrients.

And remember, convenience is key. So, be sure to pack nutritious and convenient food that is either ready-to-eat or quick to prepare.

It’s also helpful to take foods that require minimal to no cooking.

Now, Go Get On The Trail!

The secret to a successful hiking trip is to be well equipped, but not too encumbered with gear and equipment. The eight items we have covered are the basics to ensure that you have a safe and fun experience.

Here’s to fun and safe adventures!