News Release

Brooks River Corridor Closure at Katmai National Park

Angler at lower Brooks River

NPS image by Matt Johnson

News Release Date: September 30, 2024

Contact: Matt Johnson, 907.469.1131

KING SALMON, Alaska --- Between September 18 and 29, 2024, there were four known incidents in which a bear received fish from anglers on the Brooks River.  In all cases the incident was witnessed by park employees.  To prevent further incidents of bears receiving food, the Brooks River corridor will be closed to all non-subsistence users below Brooks Falls effective immediately, and remain closed until October 31, 2024, or until rescinded by the Superintendent. The Brooks River corridor includes 50 yards on either side of the river other than graveled trails connecting to elevated boardwalks within those areas.

Bears receiving fish from anglers creates conditions where the bears can learn to consider people as a source of food, which leads to unsafe conditions. Park visitors should store food and scented items properly and not approach bears within 50 yards. Once a bear acquires human food it may lose its fear of people and become dangerous.

Annual salmon runs at the park support some of the highest densities of brown bears on earth. All fishing within 50 yards of a bear is prohibited.  Fishing in the park requires extra care and responsibility to protect people, wildlife, and the experience. Always be prepared to cut or break your line should a bear approach you.  Never let a bear acquire a fish from you.  All of us play a role in keeping both bears and people safe. You can learn more at www.nps.gov/katm/planyourvisit/fishing.htm.

For more information about Katmai visit us at www.nps.gov/katm and follow us on facebook, flickr, youtube, twitter, or instagram. 

---NPS---