Ways To Make Money In Alaska's Bush

Many people think that there aren't ways to make money in the bush. We have some of the worst economical development in the world (literally no 'normal' jobs). But that's no excuse to go on without some change in your bank account. With a bit of creativity and hard work anyone can make a living in remote parts of Alaska. Here are my ideas. Feel free to share yours as well in the comments below.

Conventional Ways:
Get a Job: There are a few places that are always hiring. AC Stores, Anica Stores, Tribal Offices, Corporation Offices, City Offices, and Schools. All of them usually have one or two jobs available and most have a high amount of patience. Show up, do the best you can, and they'll reward you with local friendships and a decent wage.
Commercial Fishing: In almost (not all) every part of the bush there is a commercial fishing industry. Whether it's freshwater or saltwater- there are a variety of things that one can catch and sell. And not all permits are expensive. In fact there are many 'lesser quality' permits (like whitefish) that are less than $100.00.
Trapping: Granted, it's a lot of hard work. But if you enjoy being outdoors it can truly be a dream job. And if you work hard enough almost any animal (even muskrat!) can pay your bills through all 12 months of the year.


Unique Ways:
Sell Nature Products: There are a lot of products in the bush that can be turned around and made money on. Fish, fur, berries, even tundra lichen (beauty stores buy it for lotions) all have monetary value. Some things require licenses, others do not. Almost anything is valuable if you look at it in the right way. Willow twigs? Make whicker for crafters! Spruce trees? The branches can be used for wreaths and many lower-forty-eight flower shops will buy them. Everything has a use. And it all can be sold.
Sell Native Crafts: If you're a native and know a traditional craft (beading, ivory carving, mask making, basket weaving, etc) then you have a huge opportunity to make money. Get your things authenticated as 'Native Made' and you can sell them almost anywhere. Many tourist shops, museums, art galleries, and even Alaskan resorts will buy them. You can also create your own markets and sell them online.
Write Articles: Write articles about your lifestyle for magazines that would find them interesting. There are a variety of outdoors magazines that would spend big money on an article on true rural living. Recreational sports magazines that you participate in. ATV, snow machine, fishing, hunting, trapping- there's magazines for everything. Also look into local publications. Alaska magazines, local newspapers (especially rural ones that don't receive many articles), and websites about Alaska might pick up your writings as well.
Be A Pen Pal: There are a few sites online that offer 'Pen Pals for Sale'. Some pay you by letter, some pay you by month, some pay you a one time fee for as long as the writing lasts. But the point is- that a pen pal from Alaska, and rural Alaska is in demand.
Open a Bed & Breakfast: No need to guide or even have much knowledge on rural Alaska. Many people will pay big money just to stay in a remote area or native village. Take them on a boat ride, let them camp on the tundra, or simply let them wander the town. It does take more planning and investment than the other things listed here, but I've always thought it would make a wonderful job- I love meeting new people.