🦅 Bald Eagles in Ketchikan Alaska – A Dockside Encounter

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🦅 Bald Eagles in Ketchikan Alaska – A Dockside Encounter

One of the things I’ve come to appreciate over the years of running charters in Southeast Alaska is how close we live to the wild. Out here, it’s not uncommon to share the day with whales, seals, sea lions—and bald eagles.

While we were cleaning fish at the dock after a great day on the water, a hungry bald eagle circled overhead, eyeing the carcasses we were tossing overboard. He made a few passes, swooping low, sizing things up. Then finally, with a quick dive and a splash, he grabbed an easy meal right off the surface. No hesitation, just instinct. It’s moments like that that remind you—you’re deep in Alaska, where nature is always close by.

Bald eagles are an iconic part of life here. With wingspans stretching up to 7 feet, sharp talons, and keen eyesight, they’re built to hunt—but they’ll never turn down an easy snack either. Around the docks, they’re smart enough to know when fishermen are cleaning up, and it’s not unusual to see them patiently perched, waiting for a handout from the sea.

These birds are incredibly resilient. Once endangered, they’ve made a strong comeback—especially here in Alaska, where more than half of the entire U.S. bald eagle population lives. You’ll spot them on treetops, flying along the shoreline, or just like this one—swooping in for scraps when the opportunity strikes.

It’s easy to take things like this for granted when you live here, but to our guests, it’s often one of the most unforgettable parts of their trip. Just another reminder that Alaska isn’t just a place—it’s an experience.