River Fishing and Bear Watching

If you’re visiting Icy Strait Point and craving a true taste of wilderness, the River Fishing and Bear Watching tour offered by NatVenture Tours might just be your perfect day. This 4-hour excursion is designed specifically for cruise passengers who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots—to go where brown bears roam and salmon swim wild and free. Imagine driving through Indigenous Tlingit land, walking along pristine rivers, and catching fish while watching for the iconic bears that make these waters their home.

As with any adventure in the wild, there are considerations—mainly weather-related, since this tour is contingent on good weather and offers no refunds if canceled due to bad weather. But what truly sticks with travelers are the demanding yet rewarding opportunities to spot wildlife, coupled with knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights. What we love: the intimacy of a small group experience and the chance to blend fishing with wildlife viewing in such an untouched setting. A potential downside? If you’re expecting a luxury vehicle or all the comforts of a big tour operator, this may feel a bit more rugged.

Overall, for travelers who value authenticity, wildlife encounters, and a chance to fish in the wild—this tour ticks a lot of boxes. You won’t find a more scenic or immersive experience with such consistent high praise from past guests. Now, let’s get into what makes this trip a standout excursion.

Highlights of the River Fishing and Bear Watching Tour

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Drive through Hoonah and onto remote logging roads to truly escape the crowds.
• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see brown bears, salmon, and other animals like seals and Sitka blacktail deer.
• Fishing for Salmon and Trout: Walk short distances to prime fishing spots — catch the thrill of pulling in fish in a pristine river.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides boost safety, fish-spotting, and storytelling, making the experience educational and fun.
• Native Cultural Touch: Passing through the Tlingit village adds an authentic cultural layer.
• Customizable Pace: Fish near one location or move around—your guide adapts to your preferences and the conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Logistics and Transportation

Departing from Icy Strait Point, the tour begins with a pickup that often straddles early morning or late morning, depending on your cruise schedule. The journey takes you through Hoonah, a vibrant Alaska Native Tlingit village, giving you a glimpse of local life and culture before hitting the remote logging roads.

We loved the way guides efficiently manage group size—max 6 travelers—ensuring personalized attention. Reviews consistently praise the knowledge, friendliness, and patience of the guides, especially when spotting elusive wildlife.

The drive itself is unlike your standard sightseeing ride. It’s a scenic, bumpy adventure along old logging roads that ferry you into true wilderness. Keep in mind that this terrain is a factor, so it’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who aren’t afraid of some dirt and unsettled roads.

The River and Wildlife Encounters

Once at the river, you’ll gear up in waders and fishing gear provided by the tour. The short walk from the vehicle to the first fishing spot is straightforward but adds an element of adventure. The river flows through Tongass National Forest on Chichagof Island, a famed location for salmon spawning and brown bear activity.

Our guides excel at pointing out how likely you are to see bears—more per square mile than nearly anywhere else—in the vicinity, especially during salmon spawning season. Several reviews note that wildlife sightings can include bears, seals, and deer, making solid photography opportunities.

Fishing and Fish Species

You might fish for Salmon and Trout, according to the season and fish run timing. In some reviews, guests mentioned catching numerous fish and having a memorable experience angling in these waters. While fishing licenses aren’t included, gear and waders are, removing some worries from your to-do list.

Wildlife Watching and Berries

Apart from the bears, the tour offers chances to observe animals in traffic-free settings. Depending on the time of year, you may also see salmon spawning or forage for wild berries. One reviewer fondly recalled watching salmon leap and observing local berries—offering a fuller sensory experience of Alaska’s wilderness.

End of the Journey

After hours on the river, the group retraces the logging roads back to Hoonah, where you’ll be dropped at the port or your preferred local destination. The entire trip lasts around 4 hours, with the focus on quality rather than quantity.

What Travelers Are Saying: Authentic Feedback

Guests regularly highlight the knowledgeable guides, who go out of their way to make the experience special. Many reviews mention “great communication” from booking through the trip, and how guides like Natalie are helpful, fun, and informational. Jessica W. called it a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, noting walking through the brush with bear spray and witnessing ** salmon swimming in crystal-clear streams**.

Others say they caught a lot of fish—”one of the best fishing experiences in Alaska,” as Brian_M put it—while still relishing the opportunity to see bears in action. The tour’s personalized nature comes through in guest comments praising the small group size and flexibility to stay at favored spots.

A consistent theme in reviews is that the tour offers a genuine wilderness experience, unlike more commercial excursions. Many travelers appreciated that guides shared local insights about Alaska’s ecosystem and native culture, enriching the adventure.

Practical Considerations from Reviews

One potential drawback discussed is the weather’s impact. Since the tour relies on favorable weather conditions, cancellation or rescheduling might occur, with no refunds if it’s canceled due to poor weather. But travelers also mention being prepared for the unpretentious, sometimes rugged, nature of the experience—shoes and clothing suited to the outdoors matter.

An Honest Look at the Value

At $375 per person, this tour taps into the adventure and education that many travelers find thoroughly worth their expense. The small group setting and inclusion of gear, transportation, and guide expertise mean you’re not paying extra for hidden costs. The focus on authentic wildlife encounters rather than just sightseeing makes it a highlight for nature lovers.

While not cheap, this isn’t a quick superficial activity. It’s an investment in unique wildlife sightings, fishing (potentially catching dinner), and meaningful cultural interaction. It’s ideal for travelers wanting more than just a photo—those seeking to connect with Alaska’s wilderness on a deeper level.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those lucky enough to be visiting when salmon runs and bear activity are at their peak. Because of its emphasis on wildlife viewing and fishing, it’s a great choice for families, avid anglers, or anyone looking to see Alaska from a truly wild perspective.

It’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who don’t mind a bit of dirt, hike, and wildlife spotting. Small groups and personable guides make it especially appealing to those who prefer a more personalized, intimate experience rather than a large tour bus.

Final Thoughts

The River Fishing and Bear Watching tour from Hoonah is a genuine, fulfilling way to experience Alaska’s extraordinary wildlife and scenery. It offers a hands-on approach to understanding this rugged environment—guided by experts who respect the land and its animals. You’ll leave with stories of bears in the wild, icy streams full of spawning salmon, and perhaps a fish or two to take home (or at least brag about).

If you’re prepared for some outdoor activity, want to see Alaska’s big animals in their natural habitat, and love added touches like fishing and cultural connections, this trip is a spectacular choice. It’s a chance to step away from commercialized attractions and truly experience the raw beauty of Southeast Alaska.

FAQ—Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is suitable if you have moderate physical fitness, are comfortable walking in uneven terrain, and can handle outdoor conditions. It’s a family-friendly activity but best suited for children old enough to navigate the outdoor environment safely.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation in a private vehicle, fishing gear and waders, and the guided experience. A fishing license is not included, so you’ll need to bring a valid one if you plan to keep your catch.

How long does the tour last?
It runs roughly 4 hours from pickup to drop-off, providing ample time for wildlife watching, fishing, and exploring the scenic surroundings.

Are there any age or physical restrictions?
While there are no formal age limits, travelers should have moderate fitness levels due to walking in rocky or uneven terrain and the outdoor nature of the experience.

What should I wear?
Dress in layered outdoor clothing, including waterproof items. The guide provides gear, but waterproof shoes or boots help. Expect to get a bit muddy or wet, so come prepared.

Can I see bears during this tour?
While sightings depend on luck and timing, many guests report bears in the vicinity, especially during salmon spawning season. Guides are experienced at spotting wildlife, boosting your chances.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour relies on fair weather, the excursion could be canceled if conditions are poor. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Good weather enhances your chance of seeing wildlife and catching fish.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of 6 guests, allowing for a more personalized and safe experience when navigating wilderness areas.

In the end, if you’re looking for a truly engaging, adventure-led way to explore Alaska’s raw landscapes, the River Fishing and Bear Watching tour stands out for intimacy, authenticity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.