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 located on a small island at the mouth of the bay, chosen for its beauty and the excellent gravel landing beach referenced with the waypoint. Additionally, there is a good chance of receiving a cell phone signal on the island, and adjacent to the landing beach is a sort of campsite/picnic area which is utilized by various people. Excellent views can be found on all sides of the island, and exploration is encouraged.
The hide itself was chosen for its central location and the distinctiveness of the spot, as well as relative ease of access. Some bushwhacking is required, but I tried to keep it to a minimum. Starting at the little camp adjacent to the landing beach, there is a trail of sorts leading slightly uphill in the general direction of the cache. Once in the vicinity, you will have to head off the 'trail' a short distance. The hide is located at the site of several blowdowns near the top of a small hill. See the hint and spoiler pics for more details.
Left a TB in the cache as well as FTF prize of an unactivated CITO coin.
Original Contents:
- logbook/pencils
- garbage bags
- 2 pr disposable gloves
- safety glasses
- duct tape
- coaster
- army man
- keychain/permit float
- keyring
- earplugs
- whistle
- partial roll rescue tape
- full roll generic rescue tape
- spare ziplock
- trackables (listed above)
Please try to rehide so the cache is not visible!
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