Iliamna Lake Lodge - Bear Viewing

Alaska's Brown Bears, the largest of the land carnivores, are plentiful in the Lake Iliamna region. Attaining standing heights of 10 feet and weighing in at as much as 1,700 lbs., the Alaskan brown bear is a truly remarkable and impressive big-game animal.

The summer-run salmon of the Iliamna region constitute a highly important dietary ingredient in these bear's annual cycle. Their dependence on the fish draws them in numbers to the Iliamna waters. When salmon are present in the streams, dozens of bears can be spotted congregating to fish and feast at the most productive holes. Over generations the bears have established networks of trails to the locations with the highest concentrations of fish.

Alaskan brown bears have a distinct pecking order when it comes to fishing. The biggest and strongest bears dominate the best fishing holes. Other bears are permitted to fish only when those with dominance have satisfied their appetites. Due to the quantity of bears and the limited number of choice fishing holes, competition and ranking are the variables that promote numerous challenges and occasional clashes between the bears.

Another day down at the fishing hole In late summer, as the salmon runs diminish, the bears begin to search the mountainsides for alternative food sources including the ripening berries. While the berries are in season the bears will consume them by the ton. With the onset of winter in early October the bears are actively seeking out dening sites. The bears at this time of the season are resplendent in their thick fur coats and ample bulk from a long and active season of hunting and foraging.

To witness the majesty of these enormous animals in close proximity is a highly exhilarating experience. For those interested in viewing and photographing Iliamna's brown bears we provide a special tour. Through the exercise of reasonable caution, excellent opportunities exist for close viewing.