I have spent the last two days mingling among the some of the finest, most well known outfitters, and bush pilots in Alaska. (Some Both). I had lunch yesterday with Lance Kronberger, and a beer with Mike Litzen last evening (a rock star bush pilot outfitter/bush pilot with more than 15000 hours logged). Mike had Brendon Burns up for Dall Sheep this year. There is a "missing" story Brendan didn't bother to mention that I have the dirt on.......
Between running my table and sitting in on meetings I have learned much about Alaska's conservation issues, outfitting struggles and successes, and of course, how to score a Dall Sheep!! Its great to see the heads of SCI, Dallas Safari Club, FNAWS, ADOFW, and other important individuals get together for a good cause, preservation of Alaska's outfitting business.
These people live and work in last true frontier in the United States, and make their living doing so. They, for the most part, may not make a ton of money. They may not ever become famous. They do what they do because they are passionate about it and live for the adventure of Alaska's wild. Most that I have met here are look you in the eye, good people.
Among things that I have come to admire of the folks that I have met, is there honesty towards what they wear in the field. Sitka is starting to become a household name up here, a direct result of its natural fit. These guys and gals require the best gear on the market, there life depends on it. Its less about looks and more about survival. The discussions that I have had regarding the 2009 line have been nothing but positive. Details when I get back!
A cell phones view of the Chugach Range. Dec 4
Oh yes, theres an Iditarod conference next door.........they love the Dutch Oven!!!