If you are planning a trip to Alaska and want to know a bit
about where you are going before you get there, then you should start with the
sea life. With over 94,000 square miles of water, Alaska has more water than
any other state. So, with this much water, it is a guarantee that there is an
abundance of sea life to watch. But what animals will you see when you head to
Alaska? Hmmm. Let’s find out.
Did You Know: Facts about Alaskan Sea Life
- Most U.S. crab, halibut, and salmon come from the Alaskan waterways. With so much sea life, it is no wonder that fishing is a major industry in the state.
- Orca whales, also known as ‘Wolves of the Sea,’ are the fastest whales.
- There are five species of salmon in Alaskan waters. These are the Chum (also known as Calico), Coho, King, Pink, and Sockeye. Pink salmon is the smallest, and the chum salmon swim the farthest. Sockeyes are not found in the Sitka area.
- While most people think of salmon when they think of Alaskan fish, the halibut is the most desired of the bottom-dwelling fish. With both eyes on the same side of their head, they are also one of the most unique fish.
- Don’t get confused if you hear someone refer to “catching chickens.” They don’t mean our feathered friends who lay eggs. Rather, ‘chicken’ is a term halibut fishermen use to indicate it is a smaller fish. Of course, there is an abundance of larger halibut. A large halibut, one that is more than 300 pounds, is called a ‘barndoor halibut.” The largest one ever caught was 495 pounds.
- The humpback whale, one of the tourists' favorites to see, does not spend its entire life in Alaskan waters. While these are commonly seen during spring and summer months, these whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii (a 2,400-mile journey) every fall.
- Alaska is home to 90% of the world’s sea otter population, with many living in the waters surrounding public lands. The sea otter’s diet includes sea urchins, crabs, mussels, and clams, and they will dive as deep as 250 feet to secure a meal. Also of interest is that the sea otter is one of few mammals that will use tools, for instance, a rock, to open a hard-shelled meal.
- If you want to see the herring spawning, spring is the best time to head to Sitka, Alaska. Thousands of fish head to the frigid waters at that time, forming massive schools near the water’s surface. From the deck of a tour boat, you can get amazing pictures of the herring, as well as the bald eagles and bears that show up to catch them.
But just knowing the facts isn’t enough. To be able to show off your new knowledge, time aboard an area ship is a must. Do this by reserving a spot with Captain Rick aboard the Goleta and Coastal Tours Sitka. You will not only learn more about the amazing sea life but get to see it. Now is the time to reserve your place aboard the Goleta. Reach out to Captain Rick today because spots are filling up quickly.
