Big Brown Bear Fishing, Brooks River, Katmai National Park, Alaska

It is always exciting to observe Alaskan Brown Bears in the wild. They are all impressive. However, when a true giant amongst them appears, there is a new reality to behold. This massive bear, full from weeks of feasting on spawning salmon, made quite an impressive entrance. As he emerged from the forest and entered the river, the other bears quickly vacated the prime fishing hole. He had earned his place in the local bear hierarchy through years of growth and battle. Only the strongest bears survive and grow to this size. Truly an impressive creature!