Whaling Boats on the West Beach

Gambell still depends upon traditional subsistence acivities as a way of life. Walrus and seal hunting produce some of the most significant harvests for the village. Whaling, though, is the fulcrum upon which all of Gambell's subsistence economy rests. the bowhead whale which is primarily harvested out here, can reach over 100 tons and provide the village with food and resources for years. Last year the village missed its annual bowhead harvest, so everyone is eagerly awaiting the big catch this coming spring when bowheads migrate through the region. The Boat in the foreground of this increadible Bering Sea sunset, is one of several traditional walrus skin boats used in the whalehunt. These skin boats are all mounted on large lacks on the west beach just a few hundred yards from teacher housing.