On Step Alaska

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.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

 

In this episode David Bayes talks about the environmental impacts of bottom and midwater trawling in Alaska. He explains the political and regulatory powers that allow the staggering bycatch and waste of king salmon, halibut, crab, and whales.

More information is available on the STOP Alaska Trawl Bycatch page on Facebook

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Allen Marine was voted Ketchikan’s 2025 Business of the Year. In this episode I talk to Matthew and Emma about the company's humble $82 first season fifty years ago to a fleet of custom vessels running tours out of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau. The episode covers wildlife practices and Ketchikan-specific excursions, vessel lineup, and what makes the Misty Fjords a must-see.

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

The episode covers calling tactics for Sitka Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska. I talk about using a subtle call while approaching muskeg edges, the trade-off between waiting patiently at one spot versus covering more ground, and why confidence in your call matters. 

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

 

In this episode Ryan Sapena from Seek Outside walks through his favorite tent setups — the Courthouse, Cimarron and the ultralight Silex — and explains liners, stove choices, and simple maintenance tips.

He also covers setup best practices and common mistakes (tensioning, guy-outs), condensation management, accessories, and buying advice including Black Friday sales and lead times.

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Steve Shannon is a former teacher turned strength coach in Fairbanks. In this episode we discuss why everyone should be an athlete with the goal of improving the quality of their lives, not just pursuing athletic achievements. He gives practical advice on training youth athletes, fueling performance with protein and sleep, and using simple habits "exercise snacks," and rucking to stay fit for hunting and life.

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Atlas bar founder James Oliver talks about the motivation behind making a high‑protein, low‑sugar bar with real ingredients, grassroots sales at gyms, a 100‑mile running challenge eating only Atlas bars, and the importance of honesty when marketing. We also discuss the current state of metabolic health in America, craving challenges and information. 

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

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers