A small cache in a tree on a tiny islet in a spectacular spot
Esther Bay, known to fishermen as the Bay of Isles (there is also a bay with that official name on Knight Island), is a real treasure among the many gems of Prince William Sound. With stunning scenery in all directions it is a must visit location on Esther Island. Anchorage is limited, but can be found in a number of spots in the bay, depending on weather
Deserted for much of the year, the bay comes alive in summer with commercial fishermen chasing first chum (dog) salmon, then pinks (humpies). The chum are caught predominantly by gillnet, then the pinks are caught with both gillnet and purse seine gear. The Esther district is the only location in Prince William Sound where both gear types are used simultaneously, a situation which can lead to some interesting conflicts. Most of these salmon are returning to the Esther hatchery in Lake Bay, but there are also some wild stocks in the area.
This cache is on an islet in the head of the bay, chosen for ease of access at high tide at least, and the uniqueness of the spot. Rather than focusing only on the one spot, the hide attempts to showcase the beauty of the isolated head of the bay. Eventually, I would love to do a multi cache in the area, but not sure I will ever get the time.
The almost landlocked section of bay the cache is in will be frozen over for several months of the year, typically when I visit in March it is inaccessible.But when accessible, it is a very beautiful spot, well worth the trouble of getting there
Access to the section of bay is through the North gap to the left at the top of Esther Bay. Once you hit this entrance, charts are of limited use. Those with larger vessels are advised to anchor in the main part of the bay and take a skiff or kayak inside, exercising extreme caution due to the seen and unseen rocks lurking just below the surface in areas. Navigate at own risk! Once inside, you are encouraged to carefully explore this beautiful area.
I went swimming near GZ, wading down a nice rock ledge to where it dropped straight off into deeper water, making a very nice spot to dive in, yet easily get back out of the water. This was at a relatively high tide, when access by kayak or small boat was excellent. Lower tides may prove more difficult.
The cache itself is a pill bottle within a larger one, somewhat camoflaged and tethered to the small tree it is hidden in. Original contents include a geocoin and 3 $1 dollar coins. A stub of pencil is included with the log, but you are encourged to bring your own.
Please try to rehide as found - tucked into the gap between the branch and the trunk
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