Witness Alaska’s Wildlife Spectacle at Rainbow King Lodge
Rainbow King Lodge isn’t just a premier Alaskan fishing destination; it’s a front-row seat to the state’s incredible wildlife. As you explore the vastness of Lake Iliamna and the surrounding wilderness, keep your eyes peeled for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Into the Alaskan Wild
Our remote location on Lake Iliamna places you deep in the Alaskan wilderness, where abundant wildlife thrives. Lake Iliamna is home to a population of around 400 freshwater seals, which feast on fish and bask on the rocky islands at the lake’s northeastern end. In the distant past, ocean-going harbor seals migrated more than 60 miles up the Kvichak River and into the lake, where, enticed by the abundant salmon, they stuck around. Today, the Iliamna seals represent one of only five populations of freshwater seals in the world. Every fly-out fishing trip is a wildlife adventure, with opportunities to spot a stunning array of creatures in their natural habitat.
Animals You Might See
- Bears: Alaska is home to both black bears and majestic brown bears. You might see them lumbering through the Alaskan landscape, catching salmon in the rivers, or grazing on berry bushes.
- Bald Eagles: Keep an eye out for America’s national symbol soaring overhead. Rainbow King Lodge boasts one of the country’s largest bald eagle populations.
- Moose: Watch for these impressive creatures wading through the shallows or grazing on land.
- Foxes: Look out for the playful Arctic fox and the cunning red fox.
- Birds: With over 430 species of birds in Alaska, Rainbow King Lodge is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Be sure to pack your binoculars!
Alaska Wildlife Viewing Ethics
It’s a tremendous privilege to observe wild animals in their natural environment. In return for that privilege, it’s your responsibility to be respectful of both wildlife and habitats.
- Give wildlife plenty of space. Binoculars and spotting scopes allow you to view wildlife without getting too close. Approach animals slowly, quietly, and indirectly. Always give them an avenue for retreat, and never chase an animal.
- Learn to recognize signs of alarm. These are sometimes subtle, and they vary between species, but may include increased movements such as agitated flapping or pacing, heightened muscle tension, staring, or frequent vocalizations. If you sense that an animal is disturbed by your presence, back off. If it still does not resume its normal behaviors, leave it alone.
- Be respectful of nesting and denning areas, rookeries, and calving grounds. Well-meaning but intrusive visitors may cause parents to flee, leaving young vulnerable to the elements or to predators. Stay on designated trails whenever possible.
- Leave “orphaned” or sick animals alone. Young animals that appear alone usually have parents waiting nearby.
- Let animals eat their natural foods. Sharing your sandwich may get animals hooked on handouts; it may even harm their digestive systems. Feeding bears, moose, and some other wildlife is illegal in Alaska except under terms of a permit issued by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
- Tread lightly. If you choose to go off-trail, remember that you are a guest in the homes of the animals you seek. Try to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats such as wetlands, riparian zones, and fragile tundra.
Your Alaskan Wildlife Adventure Awaits
Rainbow King Lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Alaska’s magnificent wildlife. Combine world-class fishing with an unforgettable wildlife viewing experience. Book your Alaskan adventure today!