Black bears and Bald Eagles are drawn to the Dog Salmon Fish Pass by pink and chum salmon runs that occur between late July and early September. The fish pass is at the outlet of Dog Salmon Creek on the west shore of Polk Inlet is an ideal spot for viewing salmon spawning. This is one of the most popular bear viewing sites on Prince of Wales, with good chances to spot a bear when the salmon run is high.

Fairly close to Dog Salmon Fish Pass is Polk Camp, a U.S. Forest Service recreation site with a cabin available for rent. This area is a great spot for additional bear viewing. Shorebirds can be found at in the intertidal zone near the head of the bay.

Directions:

From Craig, take State Highway 924 for approximately 20 miles, turn right on the Hydaburg Highway and drive 9.7 miles, turn left on Forest Road NF-21 and drive 5.8 miles, and turn right to stay on NF-21 and drive 1 mile. The parking area is located off a marked spur road from Forest Road 21 (Polk Road) that leads to Polk Inlet. The pass between Twelvemile Inlet and Polk Inlet is often snowed in during the winter months.

Trail Information:

• The viewing area is accessed by a short (.25-mile) gravel path from the parking area to the viewing platform.

Birding Resources:

•  eBird Hotspot: None

Species Checklist:

• Craig checklist

Other Resources:

• US Forest Service: Dog Salmon Fish Pass
• Alaska Department of Fish and Game: Dog Salmon Fish Pass 
• US Forest Service: Polk Camp Cabin
• US Forest Service: Polk Camp Cabin Online Reservation