The second largest island in the Kodiak Archipelago, Afognak Island, with its forested landscape and protected coastal waters, is abundant in wildlife and a popular destination for fishing, wildlife viewing or quiet retreats. While located 25 miles north of the city of Kodiak in the Gulf of Alaska, the island is a mere one mile from Kodiak Island at the narrowest point. Its rugged topography spreads out over area of 698 miles, dense with old-growth Sitka spruce forests and excellent salmon streams.
For the most part, Afognak Island is pure Alaskan wilderness —home to Kodiak brown bear, Sitka black-tailed deer and Roosevelt elk while orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, finbacks and minke populate its waters. Offshore, sea lions, seals and sea otters are common sights in the waters around Afognak while river otter, beaver, fox, marten and ermine make their home in the coastal habitats as well.
Land ownership on Afognak Island is divided mainly between the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska State Parks and various Alaska Native corporations. Afognak Island State Park includes much of the east and north sides of the island, totaling over 75,000 acres.
Originally a traditional Alutiiq village made up of a series of settlements along the beach, the community of Afognak was nearly destroyed by the Good Friday earthquake of 1964. A new community, now known as Port Lions, was constructed on the northeast coast of Kodiak Island, and the residents of Afognak relocated permanently by the end of the year.
Seasonal residents arrive during the summer for subsistence fishing and hunting or for logging. But for anglers, the main attraction is surely fishing with the numerous streams and lakes swimming with red, pink and silver salmon along with rainbow, steelhead and Dolly Varden. Offshore saltwater fishing is also very good for halibut, lingcod, sea bass, flounder, greenling and red snapper. Visitors can also enjoy wilderness hiking, beachcombing, and birding or rent one of four public cabins in either Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge or Afognak Island State Park as the ultimate escape into this pristine environment. There are also small logging camps and fishing lodges for those looking for a more remote experience.