That’s the way it was last week. Several of we Peninsula Outfitters staffers fly rods in hand explored the crystal clear saltwaters Whale Pass, Prince of Wales Island, Alaska. The numbers of early run silver salmon were incredible. To say there were thousands of fast-taking ocean-bright coho salmon would be an understatement. These fish were part of a large artificially introduced run destined for the wild salmon market. By the end of a week we came away with weary arms and enough boxes of filets to keep salmon on the table through next winter. We had hopped an Alaska Air flight from Seattle to Wrangel with a short stopover in Ketchican. From Wrangel we chartered a boat to Prince of Wales Island, about an hour and a half ride. We were looking forward to our annual early July trip. The Whale Pass silver run lasts about 6-weeks between late June and the end of July. The fishing is always good with fish running from eight to twelve pounds. Whale Pass is an offbeat place, not the typical Alaska river thing that most Alaska angling dreams are made of. Better! It is dynamic and awe inspiring. Our 8-wt Sage rods were up to the task, but not so many of us anglers. We were prepared but with somewhat lesser expectations. A week of silver salmon in the thousands was more than we expected. Our tired arms attested to this. But Whale Pass is not always that way. Last year the runs were relatively small, nevertheless still very productive. Whale Pass sports several inexpensive lodges. Ruffit cabins where we stay every year is usually booked out for three weeks by friend and angler extraordinaire Marty Clark. If you are interested in alternatives come on by the shop. We can point you in the right direction. I hope to see you on the water. Here are a few images from our trip… enjoy!