Fly-Fishing Alaska's Wild Rivers

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Summary: Valuable insight from an experienced Alaska fly fisherman.
Review: If you are planning a fly fishing trip to Alaska, this book provides useful information. The Bristol Bay drainage is the focus of the book and each key area (Iliamna, Katmai, Alaska Peninsula, Wood River-Tikchik Lakes) is covered in brief, along with information on the Goodnews, Kanektok and Kenai rivers and Kodiak Island. Also included is advice on fly selection, gear, etc. The author has obviously fished a great many of the rivers in Alaska and has shared some of what he knows.

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Summary: Collected fishing writings, but not a guide, by Dan Heiner
Review: The greatest reason for mystery about Alaska's fishing lies not so much with the size and diversity of the state, as with the reluctance of writers to divulge what they consider "secrets" -- for fear that they will turn into zones of combat, and these authors then become the scorn of the populace. As a result, most writings reveal little more than the most popular, widely known locations, and common information on techniques and fly patterns. Dan Heiner's book is more of this same style: but here, he seems to relate his experiences and feelings, predominantly as a guided client -- urging others to do the same. He eludes to particular places and techniques, but does not tell the reader where or what they are -- instead telling them to get a guide for that. In several instances, he baits the reader by saying he is excluding several locations from his list of best rivers because of fishing pressure. The reader doesn't know which ones he is referring to, but several of those left off the list are among the most productive silvers salmon streams in the world -- no secret. While guided lodging is one way to enjoy fishing,this is not for the majority of fishermen or prospective readers, and Heiner does not adequately cover the logistics and locations for countless camping/rafting/boating and other fly-in experiences. His coverage of fly patterns, while more thorough with respect to rainbow trout, is substantially different from what one would want to target other salmon species. Several of the maps, for the western rivers (Goodnews and Kanektok Rivers), and Kodiak Island misrepresented the location of major lakes and drainage outlets. The book provides very common knowledge, replete with obligatory campfire tales about bears, and would be appropriate for those who prefer the comfort and catering of a lodge experience (and can afford it). Very little more is provided to those seeking adventure.