In this episode Dagen Walton shares his life on Bristol Bay—growing up commercial fishing, running a small fly‑fishing lodge, and guiding guests on world‑class fisheries. Trout Unlimited Alaska Communications Director Marian Giannulis is also with us and provides important stats about Bristol Bay. She explains HB 233 which would go a long way in protecting the region from mining that would severely impact habitat for both subsistence use and the multi-billion dollar fishing industry. 

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Kyle Wilkinson is a freshwater fishing guide and outdoors columnist for The Frontiersman newspaper in Wasilla. In this episode we discuss winter conditions, practical tips for preventing frozen pipes, moose roasts and creative game recipes. We also get into guiding, fly fishing patterns, small-scale farming and chicken care, and his work writing local features and columns.

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Patrick McCormick is a science teacher and commercial fisherman. In this episode we talk about fishing the Copper River Delta and Prince William Sound, permit economic, commercial and charter users, concerns about  trawling, and the need for science-based management and local engagement.

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Journalist Katie Hill discusses her writing process, workforce reduction threatening a long-standing wildlife research center, and why federal science funding matters for hunters, habitat, and conservation policy. We also talk about balancing urgent conservation fights with keeping hunting accessible and fun to recruit and retain everyday outdoor participants.



Here are the links to the Meateater and Substack pieces we discuss. 



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University of Alaska-Fairbanks fisheries ecologist (steelhead expert) Michael Courtney talks about Alaska steelhead biology, tagging studies using pop-up satellite archival tags, and the unexpected westward migrations these repeat spawners take. We also cover predation risks, timing and river conditions, fishing methods, and how to follow ongoing research or contact the team for publications and data.

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This episode traces the history and impact of the Roadless Rule in the Tongass National Forest. Chris Wood, a key architect of the rule and President of Trout Unlimited, describes the conservation rationale, restoration work, partnerships with industry and local villages, and how balanced, collaborative solutions can protect fisheries while supporting rural economies.

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Fisheries scientist Kevin Fraley recounts fieldwork along the Dalton Highway investigating contaminants like mercury and PFAS, mining impacts along the proposed Ambler Road, access and conservation concerns, and fishing for Arctic Char. 

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This episode explores the proposed West Susitna Access — a 100+ mile industrial corridor from Big Lake through roadless wetlands to exploratory mining claims — covering estimated costs, major bridge and maintenance concerns, and how the project was split between state agencies.

We discuss ecological risks to wetlands, salmon and lamprey habitat, impacts on hunting and fishing, community perspectives from Talkeetna, and practical ways the public can get involved through comments, the Susitna River Coalition, and local events.

To close out the year I’m revisiting four critical habitat and conservation issues in Alaska.

This episode dives into the debate over a proposed second crossing through the Mendenhall wetlands in Juneau, Alaska. Local conservationists, hunters and bird experts discuss the ecological importance of the wetlands — a globally important stopover used by hundreds of thousands of migratory birds and over 230 species — and how different bridge alternatives would affect habitat, fishing, hunting access and community recreation.

Delaney Murphy is the co-founder of Out To Sea Expeditions, a Zodiac‑based tour business in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about  why small, local experiences matter, tour logistics, and what makes Southeast Alaska unique—especially low‑tide. We also discuss supporting local businesses, and the importance of sustainable and regenerative tourism for the community.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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