[POLECAT]

This doesn't pertain to fishing even tho I plan to use it to get to some fishing spots if I can.

Taking a class "C" motor home to AK in June for several months. Dragging an enclosed trailer behind. Want to take supplemental transportation along ... and need recommendations Was thinking of one of those scooters that don't need tags or insurance, but various states' laws may prohibit doing that. Don't want to be burdened with an 1800 CC motorcycle. Thinking about taking a two place - roadable trailbike that I can legally drive on any road, in any state w/o special permits, etc. and that'll also be good on woodsy trails. Can store the bike inside the trailer when travelling. I used to own one many years ago and have none at present.

What vehicle would you use?

Suggestions???

 

[SteveL]

Jerry,

My suggestion is not based on any personal experience on a trip like that, but one thing to consider even if you bring a motorcycle is a pair of mountain or hybrid bikes, even for just around the campground and nearby. But if you don't bicycle then thats not an option.

Someday I hope to make a trip like that. If it were me I would have bikes, kayaks, and a canoe, in addition to lots of fishing gear and a firearm or two, but thats just me. I have been to AK a number of times in recent years on business, its a spectacular place. Lots of nice folks there also, I hope you give us a trip report when you get back!

 

[POLECAT]

Steve,
I have never been to AK and I intend to see as much of it and a lot of the other states on this trip as I can. This may be a one time event and I don't want it to be a hurry up, get in line, be back at the ship, train or bus kind of vacation.

We're not really into bicycling, but have bikes that we can take along. I have access to a couple sit upon kayaks that I have considered taking and plan to try them out on the Flats this C & R season.

Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[JimRockfish]

Jerry -

A couple thoughts...

* Rent a soft-top jeep in Alaska

* Rent a motorcycle out there

Otherwise, I would find a good used 650 road/trail

That will be one great adventure!

- Jim

I just checked the motorcycle rental prices - ridiculously high - better off shopping for a good used one

Motorcycle Rental in Anchorage, Alaska - BMW, Buell, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha - AdMo-Tours

 

[golfinjoe24]

I salute you for making the drive all the way up. Me and my friend were looking at making the drive to Denali from Solomons in his jeep this summer. Then we figured it would take to long and looked into taking a flight for $512. We wouldnt be able to take our Mountain bikes and all our fishing gear so we called it off. We will start to plan now for next year so that we can make the drive. Hope you have a blast!!!

 

[JimRockfish]

Jerry - Like this..

eBay Motors: Kawasaki : KLR (item 350159112580 end time Feb-03-09 16:48:58 PST)

 

[Hookin-Up]

I just remember a friend of mine made that trip up the ALCAN (?) Hwy. and he bought a new windshield and had it shipped up there, so when he got to AK. he could change it out. others told him he will break a windshield and it's a LONG wait to get one up there. That information is about 5 years old, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

Can't help you on alt. transportation. Have a ball!

 

[crabby and son]

Jerry, Take a good ole Honda ATV...........Gary

 

[AIK68J]

Sounds like an awesome trip
When they make me king I will take that trip and my minions can carry me
when you going look out for ash
WBAL - Maryland's News, Talk, Sports Station AM1090

 

[sbieshelt]

I have gone up about 4 times but none in the last 8 years. I am planning a trip with my boys In 5 years, when they get 12 and 14. As far as what to take a canoe or something is great many folks up there use zodiacs for drifting the Kenai river for king salmon. They close the roads thru denali over the summer so they only way to get around the park is by bus or Bicycle. If your up ther for July 4th try and get to Seward for the Mount marathon. I ran it a couple years and like to watch it better. Watching people run down shale trails and falling is great fun after a few beers. Around fairbanks make a trip to circle hotsprings, nanana. As far as fishing goes we always had better luck and less crowds focusing on silver salmon. It was a joke watching combat fishing when the reds were running. And my personal favorite trip is to Claming at clam gultch. Razor clams breaded and fried on a bun are great.

Now you got me ready to go. If you make it to Haines and see any totum poles my summer girlfriend's father was the Tlingit caver for the village and made them.

 

[blue lou]

I salute you for making the drive all the way up. Me and my friend were looking at making the drive to Denali from Solomons in his jeep this summer. Then we figured it would take to long and looked into taking a flight for $512. We wouldnt be able to take our Mountain bikes and all our fishing gear so we called it off. We will start to plan now for next year so that we can make the drive. Hope you have a blast!!!

If you are going away for a couple of weeks or more, UPS the bikes and fishing gear, any decent bike shop can box the bikes for you. No excuses for not riding.

 

[Dombatti]

If you spend any time in Anchorage during the salmon run; even thought it is crazy, spend some time combat fishing in Shipp Creek right in the middle of town. It really is different.

Humpy's for a good bite to eat, the bar at the Captain Cook for killer smoked salmon chowder and the Crows Nest at the Cook for a nice meal with amazing views.

If it's a nice day, head out to the seaplane base at the airport fo a burger and beer while the planes are taking off right in front of you.

 

[jdhunts]

The best money you can spend is to buy an Alaska Mile Post book. It will break down every road with mile post markers telling road conditions, overlooks, wildlife viewing areas, towns, and some history!

 

[KRiley]

Polecat

I have an 87 Honda Civic that you could take along in trade for some snood line lesons and crabbing trips. You could leave it in Alaska possibly as fish structure, if they do not have laws against that. The bay crabs are breathing a little easier with your vacation this summer I bet. Are you going after the Alaskan King Crabs with the deadlist catch folks.

Kriley, Bel Air, Upper Bay CCA, CCA Banquet next Saturday( Feb. 7)

 

[POLECAT]

Jim, That's the kind of bike I'd like to take along. I need something Mary can handle w/o too much effort so I think something in the 350 - 500 cc class would suffice. I don't want to rent anything on this trip. I want whatever when I feel the urge. Instant gratification!

Gary, an ATV would be fun, but I will need alternative road legal transportation along the way.

AIK68J, I never thought I'd have to take face masks along. Good idea! I'll have room in the trailer.

Steve, clamming sounds like fun! You mentioned Zodiac and that makes me think I'll take the 9.9 Johnson along. Making notes of the various places you mentioned.

Dombatti, we plan to be in Anchorage and will check out the combat fishing, but likely will find less combative areas to do the catching. To keep this trip affordable, not planning too many restaurant feeds.

jdhunts, MilePost was ordered last week. Thanks!

KRiley, we would like to try our luck at catching Dungeness crab, but it appears harvesting is restricted to residents and commercials. If you're serious about trading the Honda, I am certain we can work out a trade beneficial to both of us.

Thanks to all for the input.

 

[FishStu]

If you get to Anchorage be sure to stop in here for a fresh seafood meal. It's the best I have every found !!!!

Welcome To Glacier BrewHouse

There is also Humpy's (Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse). It's more casual ,crowded with a fun loving crowd but beer is great and food is good but mostly burgers, etc.

You will love Alaska. It's hard to imagine how big it is so count on a LOT of travel.
The good news is that you see amazing sights at every turn . Never get tired of the scenery.
Take a good camera with a Telephoto lens, some good light weight rain gear and enjoy.
If you are near coastal areas count on rain almost daily.

Allow LOTS of time . You could spend a month in Denali Park and just scratch the surface !!