Bird Creek Fishing Dangers
Bird Creek has some very specific dangers that should
be taken into account like the mudflats and the traffic on the Seward
Highway. The dangers are listed just to make you aware of them so you
can prevent problems, injuries or sometimes just embarassment.
Trespassing
All lands beyond the ADFG marker are private property. Do not go beyond
the cable without permission. Currently the marker is approximately
500 yards upstream of the creeks mouth. The ADFG is attempting land
swaps and other agreements to extend the fishable area further upstream,
but for now, please respect this boundary.
Littering and Snagging
A number of years ago there were some incredible returns of Silver Salmon
to Bird Creek. Unfortunately, this brought on a lot of problems from
overuse. Littering and unsportsman like fishing practices were rampant
and were starting to draw attention from the ADFG. Also the stream banks
were getting damaged. At the time the ADFG talked of lowering the stocking
levels to lessen effects by reducing the crowds of fishermen.
Bears
Bird Creek is located on the edge of the Chugach Forest. The area has
both brown and black bears. I don't know of any bear-fishermen incidents
here, but you are in bear country so do follow the rules of bear country.
I did talk to one guy who said there was a nice turn out we could set
our tent up at for free but that he was visited by a large black bear
when he set his camper up there.
Traffic
The Seward Highway has a rough history of traffic accidents. There is
a bad combination of tourists, wildlife and scenery that unfortunately
makes for some very inattentive driving. In the past there were also
crowds of fishermen trying to park along the highway to access the creek.
It is very dangerous to cross the Seward Highway here. Hopefully this
will be alleviated now the new parking area is completed. Also the state
has taken great lengths to protect pedestrians by creating walking areas
and pedestrian underpasses at the creek. Be careful driving along the
Turnagain Arm and be sure to keep your lights on.
Combat Fishing
This can definitely become a combat zone. The limited fishing locations
and crowds from nearby Anchorage can make fishing pretty rough. Be sure
to have eye protection available and check out the general rules for
combat fishing.
Mud Flats
Always be conservative around the mud flats at the mouth of the creek.
This area has many legends of people getting stuck and drowning in the
incoming tides. If you need a gentle reminder while you are at the mouth
of the creek, just look up to the bottom of the bridge. If you get stuck
in the mud at low tide. The high tide will be just feet below the decking
of the bridge. The idea of 20 feet of water rushing over you should
get you back onto solid ground. Also be careful of the mud. My last
trip I arrived at the creek and hour after arriving and had my hat blown
off. Ended up having a stained hat for the next 14 days. Also I have
fouled a couple of floor boards with mud from this creek. In fact, I
have never been to the creek without soiling something.
Tides
The tides come in fast and high. Be sure to keep an eye on anything
that you have left on the ground. I have heard several stories about
people losing tackle boxes here because they forgot about them as the
tide rose over them.
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