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Ship Creek Fishing Dangers
Due to its urban location, Ship Creek lacks some of the usual Alaskan
fishing dangers. For example, the fishable stretch of the creek is almost
completely bear free. Also, you are unlikely to become lost or starve
to death. If you do find yourself lost and hungry, look up and walk
toward the tall buildings, you should be able to find someone who can
point you to a restaurant. In the event that you lose your tackle, it
can all be replaced easily in Anchorage, even at the tackle shop on
the north bank of the creek. So, compared to a wilderness fly-in trip,
this is pretty safe.
So what are the dangers fishing Ship Creek?
Trespassing
The land surrounding Ship Creek is owned by the Alaskan
Railroad. You aren’t at risk of being shot for trespassing,
but we are all at risk of losing the privilege of fishing the creek.
Please respect all property signs, stay off the railroad tracks, park
in designated areas, and don’t do anything to get in the way
of Alaskan Railroad workers. The Railroad has been a good friend to
fishermen in the area. Don’t do anything to change that.
Theft
The urban setting of Ship Creek brings some of the urban
problems, theft being one of them. Thieves definitely realize the
value of fishing and camping equipment. Take basic steps to protect
yourself. Do not leave valuables in plain sight in your car, locking
them in the trunk is a good idea. Keep personal valuables close to
you at all times. If possible carry everything you need in a fishing
vest. Theft is not rampant but you should keep it in your mind.
Mudflats
 I
can’t harp on this one enough. There are dozens of anecdotal
stories that have probably saved many lives. Ask anyone about the
man or woman who got trapped in the mud. Every Alaskan will tell you
one. And, even if two Alaskans tell you about the same incident, the
stories will be completely different. Do not take the dangers of the
mudflats lightly, they are real and completely avoidable. Each year
the Anchorage Fire Department pulls an angler or two our of the mud.
The best solution is to stay off the mudflats.
Combat Fishing
 Combat
fishing can try anyone’s patience. I am writing this about a
month after two people were arrested for actually coming to blows
over crossed lines. For the most part problems can be avoided by simple
courtesy. Try to fish in the same manner as those around you and make
way for people with fish on. Beyond brawling, there is a real danger
of being hooked. Always wear eye protection. Wrap
around polarized sun glasses are great and also protect your eyes
from the damaging glare of the sun. So far, I have been lucky and
have only been hooked in the waders a couple of times.
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