Dago Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dago Creek |
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 Location of the mouth of Dago Creek in Alaska
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Borough | Lake and Peninsula |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | small lake 16 miles (26 km) southeast of Egegik |
| River mouth | Ugashik Bay 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Smoky Point, Alaska Peninsula 0 ft (0 m) 57°36′40″N 157°36′15″W / 57.61111°N 157.60417°W |
| Length | 50 mi (80 km) |
Dago Creek is a stream in Alaska, United States. It is about 50 miles (80 km) long. This creek flows across the Alaska Peninsula. It starts in a small lake and ends in Ugashik Bay.
About Dago Creek
Dago Creek is a stream located in the state of Alaska, USA. It stretches for about 50 miles (80 km). The creek is found on the Alaska Peninsula. It begins in a small lake about 16 miles (26 km) southeast of Egegik. From there, it winds its way southwest. It finally flows into Ugashik Bay, which is about 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Smoky Point.
What's in a Name?
The name "Dago Creek" has an interesting history. It came from Sicilian fishermen. These fishermen would anchor their boats in the creek's calm waters. They often celebrated their heritage together with food and wine. The name became official when the area was first mapped in 1943. Today, the area is still used as a small boat harbor. This is especially true for the nearby village of Pilot Point. A new dock and boat launch were built there in 1990.
The Creek's Path
Dago Creek mostly flows from north to south. It starts by draining Dago Lake. This lake is large but not very deep. It is located about 25 miles (40 km) north of where the creek meets the sea. The creek then takes a slow, winding path. It forms several curves and side channels along the way. Even though it is narrow, fishing boats from the Bristol Bay area have traveled its entire length.
Life and Use of the Creek
Dago Creek is important for the area. It helps drain many small lakes, marshlands, and tundra areas. These are all part of the coastal zone north of Ugashik Bay. While some fish swim and lay eggs in its waters, the creek mainly acts as a drainage system.
The creek also separates communities. It divides the village of Pilot Point from Smoky Point. Local Alaska Natives use the creek for subsistence fishing. This means they catch fish for their own food. They often catch salmon here. They also catch many small, oily, herring-like fish called smelt. These fish help add to their local diet. Commercial fishing, however, is not allowed in the creek's waters.
