Alaska on TV

Many folks remember the days of "Northern Exposure," the tv drama of the 1990s set in a fictional Alaska town (but actually filmed in the lower 48).
















However, currently a number of "reality" shows now feature Alaska instead.

These include:

Deadliest Catch, Discovery Channel

The series documents the events aboard fishing boats in the Bering Sea during the Alaskan king crab and Opilio crab fishing seasons.













The Aleutian Islands port of Dutch Harbor is the base of operations for the fishing fleet. The show's name derives from the inherent high risk of injury or death the crews face due to the hazardous work environment and nature of the work itself. The show is currently airs in 150 countries.

Ice Road Truckers, History Channel

Although originally set in Canada, seasons 3 and 4 feature truckers on the Dalton Highway in Alaska.












Alaska State Troopers, National Geographic
This blogger's personal favorite, the show follows the activities of troopers throughout the vast state.













Law enforcement activities portrayed include troopers secluded near the Arctic Circle, snowmobile rallies, wildlife/hunting enforcement, and typical urban crime in populated areas.

Tougher in Alaska, History Channel
Described as a "Dirty Jobs" type show set in Alaska, the series stars long-time Alaska resident Geo Beach. The program explores the dangerous and extraordinary efforts put forth by Alaskans to perform jobs and provide services (that the rest of the United States would normally take for granted). E.g. firefighting in winter in the far north, telephone tower repairs on a remote mountain.

North to Alaska with Larry Csonka, Versus
A fishing show hosted by former football star Larry Csonka, the show features a different fishing lodge (in a different part of Alaska) in each episode.












Note: JHAWK has only watched bits of the first two shows mentioned, but has seen entire episodes of the last three!