visiting May 15 - is this a bad time to visit, can we see Bears and fish? (Anchorage: renting)

[MarySTL]

I know this isn't prime summer time but this time worked best for our schedule. I am just starting to doubt that it was a good idea. We were wanting to see bears and fish, is there any chance that will be available in Mid May? Also any suggestions on activities is greatly appreciated! We are flying in and out of Anchorage and are renting a car.
Thanks!!!!

[Barkingowl]

How long can you stay?

[warptman]

You aren't going to be into any salmon fishing this early. You'll most likely see bears around. This is way early in the season. Come and visit though, you'll have fun!

[nwcountrygal]

Depending on how long and where you go? No salmon as Warptman said. Unless going on a charter out of Seward for winter kings... but minimual. Last year gota say though in the Seward area late May was the best weather other than first of September. Who knows what this year will bring. Hopefully better!!

[Marty Van Diest]

Won't be many salmon, but there will be a very few kings starting to wander up the rivers. You likely won't see them. I hooked into a big king at the mouth of Willow Creek a few years back on May 15. Saw a couple kings in clear water in the Eklutna Tailrace about that time last year. The water there is usually to cloudy to see but it was clear then.

There will be salmon being caught at the mouth of the Copper near Cordova then.

The bears will not be fishing in the streams...not enough fish. They will likely be in the high south facing meadows eating grass, skunk cabbage and such. Some might still be asleep.

[roadfamily6now]

Alaska is just waking up from winter. It should be a really beautiful time to visit if you can stay long enough to watch the seasons change.