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The Most Prominent Alaska Wildlife on Afognak Island

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Kodiak Archipelago, Afognak Island is a testament to the remarkable diversity of Alaska’s wildlife. This pristine sanctuary boasts a thriving ecosystem where land mammals, sea mammals, land and sea birds coexist harmoniously. In this guide, we'll embark on a journey to uncover the fascinating wildlife that shares their home with us near Afognak Wilderness Lodge.

5 Tips for Planning Your Alaska Family Vacation

Although we’re through the busy season at Afognak Wilderness Lodge, many returning guests are already addressing their getaway options for next year and beyond. Getting ahead of the pack is never a bad idea, and planning an Alaska family vacation is no exception. Here, we’ll share a few considerations to help you along the way.

5 Reasons to Go on An Alaska Vacation at Afognak Island

An Alaska vacation at Afognak Wilderness Lodge is not your typical getaway; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Last Frontier. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a wealth of outdoor activities, Alaska offers a unique travel experience. This guide will delve into five compelling reasons to consider an Alaska vacation, ensuring your journey to this remote wilderness is memorable and enriching.

What to Know About Halibut Fishing in Alaska

It doesn’t take long to realize that halibut fishing in Alaska is a journey balancing adventure and skill. With its thriving marine life and pristine landscapes, Afognak Wilderness Lodge beckons anglers for an experience that will bring them beyond the thrill of catching a massive fish

How to Go About Planning a Trip to Alaska for Next Year

If you're dreaming of a magical journey to the untamed landscapes of Alaska, look no further than Afognak Wilderness Lodge. As the only lodge within the Afognak Island State Park, this all-inclusive gem offers a unique and unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in nature's splendor. In this informational blog, we’ll provide the essential information for you to start planning a trip to Alaska.

5 Alaska Movies to Watch Before Your Trip

As you gear up for an unforgettable journey to the untamed beauty of Alaska, why not immerse yourself in the magic of cinema to heighten your anticipation? Movies have the remarkable ability to transport us to different places, capturing the essence of a destination and igniting our wanderlust. To enhance your Alaska adventure, we present five captivating movies that will take you on a visual and emotional journey through the Last Frontier.

Get Ready for the Alaska Fishing Season on Afognak Island

As the operators of a wilderness lodge, we know that the Alaska fishing season is a significant draw for our guests. From novice anglers along for the ride to avid fishermen and women chomping at the bit for salmon, a trip to Afognak Wilderness Lodge promises to satisfy a range of knowledge and experience.

Give Dad the Gift of Alaska Fishing on Afognak Island

With so many holidays in a year, it’s almost as if there is a gift-giving event every month, and with Father’s Day, June is no exception. If you ask anyone off the street who is the most difficult person in their life to buy a present for, many of them will say, “My dad.” Still, if your father is into fishing or even just spending time in the great outdoors, an Alaska fishing vacation at Afognak Wilderness Lodge may be right up his alley!

What to Do in Alaska When You Aren’t Fishing

“The Last Frontier” is a destination that offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventure, and there is always something new to discover about what to do in Alaska beyond fishing. Afognak Island in the Kodiak Islands is one such place, providing a haven for those looking to explore the Alaskan wilderness beyond fishing.

All-Inclusive Alaska Fishing Trip Packages on Afognak Island

Our all-inclusive Alaska fishing trip packages include freshwater and saltwater fishing options. And with our experienced guides who know the area well, you'll have access to some of the best fishing spots in Alaska. Whether you're looking to catch salmon, halibut, trout, or any other species, our guides at Afognak Wilderness Lodge will help you make the most of your time on the water.

The Benefits of an Alaska Family Vacation

Vacations are the perfect time to escape the distractions of life and make memories with the ones you love most. Tucked away within the Kodiak Islands rests Afognak Island and Afognak Wildnerness Lodge. Our retreat is the ideal destination for any group looking to enjoy the beauty and adventure that can only be found in Alaska. In addition to avid anglers, our lodge is the perfect place for an Alaska family vacation.

Planning an Alaska Saltwater Fishing Trip

Amid one of the most productive fisheries in the northern Pacific, the Kodiak Islands present the perfect opportunity for an Alaska saltwater fishing adventure. And when you post up at Afognak Wilderness Lodge, a bounty of coveted gamefish, including salmon, halibut, and rockfish, await.

Alaska Salmon Fishing on Afognak Island

Although Afognak Wilderness Lodge has a wide variety of Alaska adventures, salmon fishing remains a favorite among our guests. Is it the opportunity to catch a trophy-sized salmon? Or maybe it’s just the overall experience of doing something quintessentially Alaskan. Either way, it’s no secret that salmon fishing around the coast of the Kodiak Islands is an experience worthy of any outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.

What to Expect from Your Alaska Lodge Vacation

When it comes to planning the perfect Alaska lodge vacation, there are a lot of things to consider. Are you here to fish, or would you enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities? No matter your penchants, Afognak Wilderness Lodge offers one of the more unique experiences in “The Last Frontier,” so you may be wondering what to expect.

Characteristics of the Best Lodges in Alaska

When determining what makes the best lodges in Alaska, you may quickly find your head spinning with options. Some places focus on fishing, while others offer generalized Alaska adventures like hiking and kayaking. For most residents of the lower 48, a trip to the Last Frontier doesn’t come around too often, so it’s understandable why someone would want to maximize their vacation with a world-class experience.

Saltwater Angling | Kodiak Fishing Charters

The thrill of saltwater fishing off the Alaskan coast is something every avid angler should experience in their lifetime. The vast open sea, a wide variety of fish, and the ongoing challenge are just a few rewards you’ll find when you hop aboard a Kodiak fishing charter.

Edible Forest Plants on Afognak Island

Afognak Wilderness Lodge is a desirable adventure destination because of the many ways you can immerse yourself in nature’s bounty. Foraging in the woods is a rite of passage for many outdoor enthusiasts, so that’s why we’ll be looking at some of the edible forest plants found right in our backyard.

3 Unique Places to Take Photos on the Kodiak Archipelago

As one of the world’s most beautiful places, Alaska’s Kodiak Archipelago presents an extraordinary photography experience. From breathtaking coastal mountain landscapes to enormous breaching whales, nature lovers and animal enthusiasts will find themselves in awe.

Alaska Birds: Afognak Island Edition

For many birdwatchers, Alaska presents an untapped treasure trove of opportunities. First of all, the Last Frontier’s pristine wilderness offers excellent habitat for several species. Secondly, some birds, like horned and tufted puffins, are difficult to find anywhere outside Alaska. And although many Alaska birds thrive elsewhere, very few places provide [...]

Things to Know About Afognak Island, Alaska

From dense forest terrain to otherworldly coastal panoramas, Afognak Island is among the most beautiful places in Alaska. Upon learning about the second-largest isle of the Kodiak Archipelago, many travelers are surprised to find out that Afognak Wilderness Lodge is the only all-inclusive resort or residence on the state park property. [...]

Afognak Wonders: Seeing the Northern Lights from Alaska

With its iconic mountains, sprawling forests, and abundant wildlife, Alaska is an excellent place for a memorable vacation. There are many wonders in “The Last Frontier,” but perhaps none as mesmerizing as the northern lights. For generations, travelers worldwide have made their way to Alaska to see the celestial display illuminate [...]

5 Exercises That Will Help Your Train for Kayaking in Alaska

Afognak Wilderness Lodge may be best known for its unfettered access to some of the best fishing in Alaska, but we also offer several other adventures. There are many ways to explore the Last Frontier, but perhaps none are as immersive as by kayak. Gliding along calm waters as you paddle [...]

3 Reasons Why You Should Visit Alaska This Year

Although there are plenty of excellent reasons to visit Alaska, some people may need a little extra motivation. Planning vacations can sometimes be stressful, so it’s essential to focus on why you want to go somewhere rather than the challenges. After all, you don’t want to miss out on the trip [...]

Reasons to Take a Trip to Alaska with Kids

As the holiday season continues, many of us are pondering what type of gifts to enjoy with the whole family. Vacations often seem to be the best option as they provide the perfect opportunity to spend time with each other while experiencing something new, and Alaska is no exception! Now, some [...]

What to Pack for an Alaska Photography Tour

Alaska nature offers arguably some of the most breathtaking photo opportunities in the nation, if not the world! A stay at Afognak Wilderness Lodge means you are not only surrounded by these stunning sights, but you have ample ways to explore them. Our all-inclusive resort puts you close to top spots [...]

Afognak Island Escapes | Romantic Getaways in Alaska

We’ll be the first ones to admit that when it comes to nourishing your love, romantic getaways in Alaska might not be at the forefront of your mind. After all, with places like France, Italy, or even Norway at the top of many “Most Romantic Places” lists, it’s easy to understand [...]

Alaska Bucket List: Unique Adventures on Afognak Island

People typically head north to the “Last Frontier” to find enriching endeavors that you simply can’t recreate in the lower-48 states. An Alaska bucket list is a definitive collection of things to do that, unless you’re a regular visitor, you may never have an opportunity to experience elsewhere. Within the beautiful [...]

Watching Whales in Alaska with Afognak Wilderness Lodge

With its impeccable waters, ideal habitat, and proximity to prominent migratory corridors, Afognak Island is a magnificent destination to watch whales in Alaska. A wide variety of cetacean species—whales, dolphins, and porpoises—reside in the various inlets, fjords, and bays found throughout the Kodiaks. And Afognak Wilderness Lodge invites you to take [...]

Getting Started | Fly Fishing in Alaska

Known for its unrivaled adventures, abundant wildlife, and world-class fishing opportunities, Afognak Wilderness Lodge is an otherworldly travel destination embedded within the Kodiak Islands. And thanks in no small part to a very healthy salmonid population, pristine ecosystem, and immaculate landscapes, fly fishing in Alaska has become a bucket list experience [...]

An Alaska Summer Vacation on Afognak Island

An Alaska summer vacation is hard to come by for many people, that’s why Afognak Wilderness Lodge—the only lodge or residence on Afognak Island—provides an affordable option with no minimum stay for those hoping to discover one of the world’s most unique and beautiful. From fishing to wildlife viewing and many [...]

Getting to Know the Kodiak Brown Bear

One of the fascinating things to do in Alaska is wildlife viewing, and Afognak Island is no exception! Our beloved slice of paradise is home to a diverse and abundant fauna population; however, few animals are as revered as the Kodiak brown bear. Given our location, Afognak Wilderness Lodge offers an [...]

Beautiful Alaska | Exploring Afognak Island State Park

People come to Alaska for various reasons. Some of us want an opportunity to chase coveted game fish amid pristine waters, while others wish to share priceless moments with the native fauna. From fishing to wildlife viewing and everything in between, “The Last Frontier” never disappoints. Part of what makes our [...]

The Best Time to Visit Alaska

Many people planning a trip to the "Land of the Midnight Sun" may be wondering, "When is the best time to visit Alaska?" The truth is that Alaska is an excellent vacation destination no matter what time of the year, but finding the best time will depend significantly on what you [...]

Fun Ways to Stay Busy Before Your Alaska Fishing Vacation

Anglers usually don't have many chances for their favorite pastime in winter unless they live in a warm climate or go ice fishing. A lack of opportunity is often the most significant limiting factor followed by winter obligations and responsibilities—like holidays and hunting. No matter the hurdles, there are more than [...]

3 Reasons to Book Your Summer Alaska Wilderness Vacation Now

Although we’re well into the offseason, we’re already looking ahead to next summer, and we suggest you follow our lead. An Alaska wilderness vacation is a bucket list item for a lot of people. After a long year, we’re willing to bet there will be a large influx of anglers and [...]

The Best Books about Alaska to Read before Your Trip

So you're thinking about taking an Alaska vacation to Afognak Island? Before your trip, you can get a feel for the immaculate landscapes, pristine ecosystems, and stunning wildlife by indulging in some of the best books about Alaska. Just because Afognak Wilderness Lodge is closed for the season doesn't mean you [...]

Afognak Island Travel Packing List and Smart Travel Tips

You may have heard various vagabonds tell you the most important thing about traveling in Alaska is to have plenty of layers. While we certainly won’t argue with that notion, there is much more to consider for your travel packing list when embarking on a wildness retreat to Afognak Island and [...]

The Best Cameras for Nature Photography

Choosing a camera for nature photography seems relatively easy on the surface. Still, there is a rather wide range of cameras and features that can fulfill your needs, including mirrorless systems with a few advantages over DLSRs. While many photographers will tell you that the best camera is the one you [...]

Trout Fishing in Alaska: Best Spinners for Trout

Many people will contemplate using fly rods when trout fishing in Alaska, but did you know that spinnerbaits are an overlooked and highly effective method for targeting the coveted game fish? And, although Afognak Wilderness Lodge will supply you with top-rated gear, to be extra prepared, you may want to pack [...]

Best Practices for Viewing the Alaskan Wildlife

While fishing is undoubtedly a big draw for our guests, one of the most precious amenities offered by Afognak Island is the abundance of Alaskan wildlife that share their land and water with us. Summer months are also an excellent time for wildlife viewing in our diverse & well populated area. [...]

Hiking in Alaska at Afognak Island State Park

Hiking in Alaska is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the unscathed pristine beauty offered by this magnificent state. Just north of Kodiak Island, Afognak Island has approximately 75,000 acres of protected wilderness that makes the perfect destination for any Alaskan vacation. Located in a very remote area, Afognak Wilderness Lodge has served as the ultimate basecamp for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a taste of the wild. Being the only lodge or residence on the island certainly has its perks. As such, we want to invite you to stay with us to explore this sacred treasure we call home.

4 Alaskan Salmon Recipes from Afognak Wilderness Lodge

At this point, many people would say the words salmon and fishing in Alaska go hand in hand. For decades, eager anglers have descended on the Kodiak Island area for a shot at snagging their biggest catch yet. The feat of reeling and landing one of Alaska’s coveted Pacific salmon species [...]

Alaska Fishing Charters with Afognak Wilderness Lodge

The fishing near Kodiak Island is some of the best in Alaska, if not the world. Every year, thousands of anglers from abroad descend upon this legendary archipelago to experience the thrill and adventure of Alaska fishing vacations. Every serious fisherman and woman should strive to find themselves fishing in Alaska, [...]

A Kodiak Islands Vacation at Afognak Wilderness Lodge

Imagine, you've just pulled your luggage from the floatplane. Preoccupied with making sure you have everything, you don't immediately notice the misty mountain forest that surrounds you. Your family is slow to make their way out of the aircraft, but as they step outside, their faces begin to glow and you are reminded why you came here. After dropping your gear on the ground, you pull out your phone and notice you have no service. You smile and think to yourself, "Perfect."

Tips for Wildlife Photography in Alaska

Arguably, two of the main reasons people come to Alaska are scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife. As the air warms and the ground begins to thaw, numerous species will exit from their dens or return from their vacation homes to forage, mate, and raise their young, making the opportunity to capture these precious moments more abundant with each sunrise.

The Ultimate Alaskan Wilderness Experience

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, look no further than a vacation to the Kodiak Islands. Located off the southwest coast of Alaska, the Kodiak Islands are a stunning natural reprieve from everyday life. Surround yourself with the lush, towering forests and breathe in the crisp, clean air. Among [...]

Authentically Beautiful Alaska Fishing Lodges

Alaska fishing is world-famous for a reason—more than one, actually. Alaska is gorgeous, the fish are plentiful, and there are a wide variety of fishing styles to try. You can fly fish from the banks of a rushing river, wade in a babbling stream, or hit the ocean for the excitement [...]

The Best Kayaking in Alaska

Afognak Island is a breathtaking oasis of outdoor adventure. It’s a pristine, untouched slice of nature and is truly one of Alaska’s crown jewels. With over 75,000 acres of immaculate Alaska state parks land, you’ll find picturesque views at every turn. Afognak Wilderness Lodge is at the heart of this piece [...]

January 6th, 2020|Categories: AWL Blog, Guided Adventures|

Wonders In The Water At Afognak Wilderness Lodge

Some of the most awe-inspiring aspects of the Alaskan wilderness is the residents that live amongst the vast forests and the waters surrounding our lodge. In an area as gorgeous as Kodiak, Alaska, we are privileged to have such an array of incredible critters that we encourage our guests to embark [...]

Best Kodiak Restaurants and Alaska Beer

For many people, the best part of a vacation is the food. Every part of the world has different styles of cuisine, and Alaska is no different! Kodiak and Afognak Island are separate chunks of land, but we share much of our culture and sources of entertainment. When you stay at [...]

Traveling to Alaska in the Fall

At Afognak Wilderness Lodge, we've helped countless people reconnect with nature by experiencing the jaw-dropping beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The majority of our guests plan their Alaskan wilderness vacation in the summer, and there's good reason for that. But contrary to what many believe, summer isn't the only time you [...]

September 20th, 2019|Categories: Uncategorized|

Top 4 Most Beautiful Places in Kodiak, Alaska

Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and Kodiak, Alaska, is home to some of the most beautiful places in Alaska. When you stay with us at our Afognak Island Alaska wilderness lodge, you’ll be surrounded by some of the best Alaska scenery. We offer easy access [...]

Best Bear Viewing Spots in Alaska

People make the voyage out here at Afognak Wilderness Lodge, within the heart of Afognak Island State Park, for various reasons. For one, the fishing here is elite, comprised of sockeye and silver salmon, Dolly Varden trout, halibut, ling-cod, and yellow-eye and sea-bass, among others. Our numerous national parks offer stunning [...]