Kodiak was established in 1941 to protect the habitat of the brown bear. Besides the brown bear, only five other mammals red fox, river otter, short-tailed weasel, little brown bat, and tundra vole are native to the island. Black-tailed deer, beaver, and several other species of mammals have been successfully introduced. Up to two million seabirds inhabit the bays, inlets, and shores. Visitor Use Kodiak is known worldwide for brown bear hunting.
Fishing is excellent for all five species of Pacific salmon.
Wildlife observation, photography, rafting, and camping are popular activities. The island is served by commercial flights and the Alaska State Ferry System. A limited number of public use cabins are available on the refuge.