| The Shuyak Island State Park comprises most of the island's 47,000 acres. The park encompasses part of a coastal forest system, unique to the Kodiak Archipelago, which contains only one tree species: Sitka spruce. Besides a virgin Sitka spruce forest, the park includes miles of coastline, beaches and protected waterways.The island is located 54 air miles north of Kodiak, Alaska. Shuyak Island measures 12 miles long and 11 miles wide but contains more sheltered interior waterways than anywhere in the Kodiak Archipelago. The land and water of the area host an infinite variety of seabirds. Otters share the sea with whales, harbor seals, sea lions, and Dall porpoises. Kodiak brown bear and Sitka black-tailed deer inhabit the island's forests.When visiting Shuyak, guests may either camp or rent one of the four public use cabins. Groceries and other supplies must be purchased before guests arrive on Shuyak. A state park ranger or volunteer may contact guests during visits. Our staff is there to assist visitors. They may be able to provide communication to the mainland, but only in an emergency.In addition to the wildlife already mentioned, visitors can view puffins, black oystercatchers, cormorants, common and red-throated loons, mergansers, harlequin ducks, and bald eagles. Migrant birds arrive in May and June.Veteran kayakers regard Shuyak Island as a true paradise. The park provides access to an intricate maze of sheltered bays, channels, and inlets. Kayaks may be available to rent at the park from a private vendor. Contact the Kodiak District Office for current information.Shuyak Island is a popular sport fishing destination in August and September when silver salmon return to the island's freshwater systems to spawn. Shuyak's saltwater bays are periodically open to commercial seining and sport fishers should be aware that up to three commercial openers may occur in Shuyak's bays between August 1 and September 15. The openings generally last between 24 and 48 hours. Immediately after the openings, sport fishing is usually slow, but rebounds within a couple of days. |
|
