Kodiak

Kodiak Island, Alaska's Emerald Isle

Once covered by glaciers some twenty thousand years ago, Kodiak Island, also known as the Emerald Isle, is located south of Anchorage. It is the second largest island in the United States, yet it only has a population of close to 7,000 people.

The island is very well recognized for its world-class sport fishing and hunting. The vast majority of tourists to visit the island are seeking outdoor adventure trips that often include sport-fishing for the abundant salmon or halibut or hunting for the Kodiak bear. Hunting and fishing licenses can be obtained by visitors relatively easily.

Kodiak Brown Bear Facts

Kodiak is also home to the Kodiak brown bear, which is the most recognized species of bear in the state. Standing some 10' tall on his hind legs, a large male is an impressive species. Even on all four legs a male Kodiak Brown Bear stands on average 5' tall, and can weigh up to 1,500 pounds.

Kodiak Island and Abundant Wildlife

Kodiak is home to more than 240 various bird species it is considered a birders paradise. Other native animals to the island include Steller Sea Lions, and various species of whales. At one time, Kodiak was the center of the otter pelt fur trade. As a result of the demand for otter pelts, the species was pushed to near extinction.

Now, after many years, the species is protected and much stronger. While the sea otter is off limits to hunting, other species are very desirable targets, especially the brown bear, due to its very large populace. For non-hunters bear viewing has become a very accessible activity. It is highly probable to see bears on the side of the road, but if you're searching for a truly thrilling bear experience, there are plenty of guided tours that can quench your thirst for adventure.

 

An Outdoor-Lovers Paradise

Anyone seeking outdoor adventure will adore the spectacular offerings available on Kodiak Island. The pristine beauty of so much natural wilderness surrounding the communities and towns makes it easy to find plenty to do.

Of course, the virtually untouched nature of the wilderness on the island makes it a natural haven for a stunning array of birds, wildlife and marine life.

Whether you're into kayaking, hiking, biking, wildlife watching or fishing, Kodiak offers you a plethora of things to see and do. If you run out of ideas, why not take a pick from the suggested 75 things to do in Kodiak. Some suggestions to get you started are:

• The Fisheries Research Center
• Kodiak Military History Museum
• Surfer Beach and Fossil Beach
• Baranov Museum
• Alutiiq Museum
• Whalefest
• Kodiak Crab Festival

Getting to and From the Island

Getting to and from the island is easy via the popular Alaska Marine Highway System; a ferry acts as a floating highway to transport you and your rental car to and from Kodiak.

Alternatively you can fly there from Anchorage; it's only a short one-hour flight. While transportation to and from Kodiak hinges on air travel or ferry, once you are on the island you can choose from the wide selection of cars from Avis car rentals to meet your specific travel needs.

Avis' Rental Car Sales - Drive and Fish

A vacation in beautiful Kodiak wouldn't be complete without a fishing trip. Our fleet of Avis rental cars will get you from the town to any of the popular fishing spots on the island and back. It's the perfect way to discover everything Kodiak Island has to offer. Take a look at the fishing season calendar now to make sure the right fish will be biting.