During a promotional video shoot in Katmai National Park, Alaska, Seattle Kraken mascot Buoy and forward John Hayden had a harrowing encounter with a brown bear. The incident occurred while they were on a fly-fishing trip, where the bear approached the group as they were fishing in the river. The guide, who was with them, spotted the bear and instructed the crew to wade through the shallow waters to safety. As they were moving away, the bear, which had been moving closer, turned and charged through the water for a few paces before stopping and turning away.
Hayden, who was part of the Seattle Kraken, humorously attributed the incident to Buoy, suggesting that the bear was particularly interested in his appearance. The event took place as part of an annual trip organized by the Bristol Bay Native Corporation to promote youth ice hockey in Alaska, a state without an NHL team. The experience also highlighted the natural habitat of brown bears in the park, where they commonly feast on salmon. The park, known for its dramatic landscapes, is home to the annual ‘Fat Bear Week’ contest, which celebrates the bears as they fatten up for the winter.
Brown bears in Katmai National Park are well-adapted to their environment and are often seen around Brooks Falls, where they feast on salmon. The park, nearly 300 miles (485 km) southwest of Anchorage and inaccessible by road, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Melissa O’Brochta, Kraken Partnership Marketing Director, who also recorded the encounter from shore, noted that bears are everywhere at Brooks Falls and are used to seeing humans. She was not scared, emphasizing the park’s reputation as a place where interaction with wildlife is common.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of the natural environment, even for those who are accustomed to it. While the bear ultimately retreated, the encounter underscores the need for caution and preparedness when exploring remote areas. The Seattle Kraken’s involvement in the promotion of youth hockey in Alaska also highlights the team’s efforts to engage with local communities and support initiatives that may not be traditionally associated with the sport. Despite the close call, the event was ultimately a success, with the footage capturing the unique and sometimes unpredictable experiences of working in such a wild and beautiful location.