North to Alaska

If you’re old enough to remember Johnny Horton’s classic song, you’ve probably caught yourself humming, “Go North to Alaska… Go North, the fun is on!” Well, let me tell you—that old song got it right.

There are fishing trips...and then there’s Alaska fishing trips.

I’ve been fortunate to fish in some beautiful places over the years, but nothing quite prepares you for the breathtaking beauty of Thorne Bay, Alaska. Towering mountains seem to rise straight out of the water. Eagles soar overhead as if they own the sky. Crystal-clear rivers carve their way through endless forests, and every bend seems to reveal another postcard-worthy view.

And then there’s the fishing.

Let’s just say the fish didn’t disappoint.

Every day brought another adventure and another species to add to the list. One minute we were battling hard-fighting salmon. The next, we were reeling in another beautiful catch that had us grinning from ear to ear. There were moments of excitement, moments of laughter, and a few moments when the fish reminded us that they had plans of their own.

The best part wasn’t simply filling the cooler.

It was standing in some of the most spectacular scenery on earth with a fishing rod in hand, breathing cool mountain air, listening to rushing water, and forgetting for a little while about deadlines, emails, and everything waiting back home.

Fishing has a way of slowing life down. Alaska takes that feeling and magnifies it.

You begin to notice the little things—the sound of an eagle calling overhead, the ripple of a fish breaking the surface, the quiet conversations between friends while waiting for the next strike. Those are the memories that last long after the fillets have been eaten.

Of course, no great fishing trip is complete without swapping stories about “the one that almost got away.” Every fisherman has one. Some of those stories get a little bigger every year, but that’s part of the tradition.

If Alaska has been sitting on your bucket list, let me encourage you to stop dreaming and start planning. Whether you’re an experienced angler or someone who simply loves the outdoors, Alaska has a way of getting into your heart.

The scenery is unforgettable.

The fishing is incredible.

The memories last forever.

And yes...

Johnny Horton knew exactly what he was singing about.

“Go North to Alaska... Go North, the fun is on!”

Have you ever been fishing in Alaska? I’d love to hear about your favorite catch—or tell me which destination is still sitting at the top of your bucket list

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