Part memoir, part almanac, and 100% delightful, Alaska’s Inside Passage covers everything from wildlife and ocean creatures to geology, bush pilots, original inhabitants, and the history of Alaska's founding.

Dale Pihlman—commercial fisherman, pilot, charter yacht operator, art teacher, and fisheries biologist—shares his lifetime fascination with everything alive, including captivating knowledge of little known facts and diverse information.

A careful researcher, Pihlman interviews scholars as well as old-timers. He reviews the history of Native peoples in the area, the Haida, Tlingit, and Tsimshian, and offers personal reminiscences of the fishermen and women, entrepreneurs and eccentrics, tucked into the islands and bays of the Inside Passage.

A full color print version is available directly from the author.

REVIEWS:

"If you are an outdoor enthusiast and have aspirations of going to Alaska, then this is the book for you. Even if you do not plan a visit, this narrative of ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE by Dale Pihlman is a wonderful guide and definitive work on the history, nature, industries and Native culture of the panhandle of Alaska as well as anecdotal stories of the hardy individuals who chose to make this frontier their home. It is a thoroughly researched compilation of enthralling information for anyone wanting to know more about this area of our 49th state. " — Charlie G. Summers Jr., BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year - 1985

"Thank you for sending the requested book, Alaska's Inside Passage. I had a hard time setting it aside. Congratulations on your very enjoyable, beautifully illustrated and informational masterpiece of literature. I wish to order three more for sons who have been interested in Alaska." — Eugene Fairbanks, MD, Co-author of the "Sound and the Sea"

"Alaska's Inside Passage by Dale Pihlman delivers beyond any expectations. the book highlights Nature, History Native Culture and Industries with over 500 images in full color. Although I have finished reading this book I will never be finished using it as a reference. I have worked in the tourism industry for the past 35 years and would recommend this book to all tour guides in Ketchikan and the greater SE Alaska territory. I would lobby for Alaska Inside Passage by Dale Pihlman to be adopted as a textbook for high school and college-level history courses. It is truly an amazing resource.
Of special interest should be to anyone of Native descent. Dale's insightful treatment of Native history both pre and post contact will add a depth of understanding for Natives and non-Natives alike.
As a retired educator and lifetime member of the Tongass Historical Society, I would encourage parents to purchase this book as a "read to your kids book" for children of most ages. Read a chapter, a section, a story, and your kids will enjoy it and become educated, along with you!" —Rob Holston, Tour Operator

"Essential reading for anyone already in love with Alaska’s beauty and diversity, as well as those planning a trip to the 49th state." —Molly Hollenbach, PhD Anthropology

"Alaska’s Inside Passage by Dale Pihlman is an encyclopedia of all things Alaska Panhandle, offering insights only and insider could muster up. A variety of employment and decades spent in the area allow him to provide a personal touch not often seen in guide books…It would make a worthy addition to the collection of any boater thinking of venturing to Alaska, whether it’s the first our fifteenth time." —Northwest Yachting Magazine, staff writer Evin Moore


"Dale Pihlman has written the best book I have ever seen about Southeast Alaska. The title is Alaska’s Inside Passage. It should be in every boat, RV and duffle bag heading north. Pihlman has written a comprehensive and enjoyable look at the nature history, Native culture, and the industries of Southeast Alaska. His skillful writing brings it all to life in a most approachable fashion." —Seaport Books, Celebrating Pacific Northwest Authors — LaConner, WA


"Alaska’s Inside Passage by Dale Pihlman presents a wealth of information on a variety of subjects, a fascinating journey through Southeast Alaska. Dale Pihlman’s knowledge and experience as a biologist, mariner, commercial fisherman, and pilot draws the reader into a colorful life in the bush. His in-depth, easy to read topics cover everything from community history and culture, to wildlife and the industries of Alaska, a must read for visitors and locals alike." —Waggoner Cruising Guide

"Few travelogues attempt and accomplish as much as Dale Pihlman’s Alaska’s Inside Passage while providing the expected geographical and historical information about southeast portion of the state, the narrative often reads like an absorbing novel…This comprehensive and engaging study is enriched by detailed maps, as well as spectacular photographs of the area’s flora and fauna including marine life. Like exemplary novels, Alaska’s Inside Passage rewards rereading." —Suzann Bick, PhD, English

"Alaska’s Inside Passage is an astounding production! I am so impressed. You managed to create a super good education book that also comfortably sits on a coffee table as a picture book. One of the things I found so engaging was your personal insights and stories. These thing scattered throughout the book make it an easy read and much more than just pictures and text."—Steve Raymond, Civil Engineer, New Zealand

"I have been looking forward to the release of this book. It is the best book that I have seen on our area, SE Alaska. Nice overview, with details that many locals may not be aware of, balanced with good pictures and good history. I have been spreading the word to others. Congratulations on an excellent job!" —Clark Davis, Ketchikan Resident