Gravelly Creek

About: Gravelly Creek

Exploring the Pristine Waters of Gravelly Creek, Thorne Bay, Alaska

Gravelly Creek, nestled in the wilderness of Thorne Bay, Alaska, is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a truly authentic fishing experience. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish populations, this creek provides the perfect setting for a peaceful day of fishing. Anglers flock to Gravelly Creek for the opportunity to catch some of Alaska’s most prized fish species, including Silver Salmon, Dolly Varden, Steelhead Trout, and Rainbow Trout.

Overview of the Water Body

Gravelly Creek is a pristine, clear-water stream that flows through the dense forests of Thorne Bay on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska. The creek is fed by snowmelt and rain, creating ideal conditions for cold-water species. The surrounding environment is characterized by old-growth forests, lush vegetation, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a tranquil and picturesque location for anglers. The creek’s gentle flow and varying depths provide a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from shallow riffles to deeper pools where fish often congregate.

Fish Species

• Silver Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch): Silver Salmon, also known as Coho Salmon, are a prized catch in Gravelly Creek. They are known for their acrobatic fights and strong runs. Silver Salmon have a bright silver body with small black spots on their back and upper lobe of the tail fin. They typically enter the creek during the late summer and fall months for spawning.
  • Best Natural Baits: Salmon eggs and herring are the top natural baits for Silver Salmon. Drift fishing with these baits in deeper pools and runs is highly effective.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Spinners, spoons, and brightly colored streamers are excellent choices for targeting Silver Salmon. These lures should be retrieved at a moderate pace to mimic the movement of baitfish.
  • Best Method to Catch: Drift fishing and casting lures into deep pools and eddies are the most successful methods for catching Silver Salmon in Gravelly Creek. Focus on areas with slower currents where these salmon are likely to rest.
• Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma): Dolly Varden are a beautiful and hardy species of char that thrive in the cold waters of Gravelly Creek. They are easily identified by their olive-green body, white leading edges on their fins, and a pattern of pink or red spots along their sides. Dolly Varden are often found in the creek year-round, making them a popular target for anglers.
  • Best Natural Baits: Salmon eggs and small baitfish, such as minnows, are the best natural baits for Dolly Varden. Drift these baits along the bottom in deeper pools or near cover.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Small spoons, spinners, and streamers that imitate minnows or fry are effective for Dolly Varden. Bright colors like silver, orange, and red tend to attract their attention.
  • Best Method to Catch: Dolly Varden can be caught using both fly fishing and spinning techniques. Focus on slower-moving sections of the creek, particularly near structure such as logs or undercut banks.
• Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Rainbow Trout are a staple species in Gravelly Creek, known for their vibrant colors and spirited fight. They have a shimmering silver body with a prominent pink to red stripe running along their sides and black spots covering their back and fins. Rainbow Trout can be found throughout the creek, particularly in the faster-moving sections.
  • Best Natural Baits: Worms, insects, and salmon eggs are the top natural baits for Rainbow Trout. These baits should be drifted through riffles and pools where trout are actively feeding.
  • Best Artificial Lures: Small spinners, spoons, and dry flies are effective for catching Rainbow Trout. Fly anglers often have success with caddisflies, mayflies, and nymphs that mimic the local insect life.
  • Best Method to Catch: Rainbow Trout are often caught using fly fishing techniques, particularly in the faster-moving sections of the creek. Casting dry flies or nymphs upstream and allowing them to drift naturally downstream is a proven method for success.

Expert Techniques for Fishing in Gravelly Creek

To maximize your fishing success in Gravelly Creek, consider these expert tips:

• Timing: Early morning and late evening are prime times for fishing in Gravelly Creek, as fish are most active during these periods. Additionally, fishing during the salmon runs in late summer and fall can be highly productive.
• Use of Light Tackle: Light to medium tackle is ideal for fishing in Gravelly Creek. This setup allows for precise casting and is sensitive enough to detect subtle bites from smaller species like Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden.
• Fly Fishing Techniques: Fly fishing is particularly effective in Gravelly Creek, especially for species like Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden. Using flies that mimic the local insect hatch can yield excellent results.
• Focus on Structure: Fish often congregate near structure, such as undercut banks, fallen logs, and deep pools. Targeting these areas can increase your chances of hooking into larger, more elusive fish.

Conclusion

Gravelly Creek in Thorne Bay, Alaska, offers a unique and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. The creek’s pristine waters and abundant fish populations provide a serene and productive environment for catching some of Alaska’s most prized species. By understanding the behavior and preferred habitats of species like Silver Salmon, Dolly Varden, Steelhead Trout, and Rainbow Trout, anglers can enhance their chances of success. Whether you’re fly fishing for Rainbow Trout or casting for the powerful Steelhead, Gravelly Creek promises an unforgettable fishing adventure in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.