North 40 Fly Shop eMagazine July 2016 | Page 7

We all sat there in stunned silence, jaws agape at what we had just seen. A fish like that is why we went so far and planned so long to be there. As the celebratory drink was passed around, I knew it in my soul. I will be coming back to southeast Alaska because these fish and this place are in my head for good. A couple of post-story items for consideration. We stayed with Naukati Bay Adventures. Rick Hedding and his crew are developing a fantastic family-oriented lodge that delivers on comfort, great food and hospitality. They also have a great salmon, halibut and rockfish guide service that have the area waters dialed. Visit them online at www.nbaak.com As mentioned before, Prince of Wales is also part of the Tongass National Forest. Due to its intact habitat, this massive area of land across SE Alaska is one of the main reasons that salmon and steelhead numbers stay strong. BUT, and it’s a big but, it needs further protection from logging that threatens the area’s productivity. Learn more about the Tongass and 77 identified watersheds that need further protection at www.americansalmonforest.org