Around 1700, we moored at the pier at Meyers Chuck. We had barely secured our lines when a small motorboat appeared and drew alongside the Merry Fortune. That's how we met Sterling.

Sterling moved to Meyers Chuck four years ago − from, Hawaii, of all places. In Hawaii, he was a cement pumper. In Alaska, he lives off the land. During the winter, Sterling traps martens (for which he receives $200 a pelt), otters ($150 a pelt), and mink (price not disclosed). During the summer, he is primarily a longline fisherman.

Like any self-employed person, Sterling is also a smart businessman. Because Meyers Chuck is so far from provisions, Sterling prefers to barter for what he needs with those who visit Meyers Chuck. That's how we acquired two filets of red snapper, caught hours earlier, in exchange for a six-pack of Keith's Pale Ale.

During the barter, Sterling noticed us noticing his revolver, so he asked us if we'd like a closer look. Naturally, we said yes.

I'm no expert on guns. That's why, when I saw Sterling's revolver, I thought: neat, he's given his gun a name and engraved the name on the barrel. It turns out I was mistaken.

Also, this conversation ensued:

US: Have you ever shot a grizzly bear?

STERLING: Yeah − I wasn't hunting the bear though; it was self-defence.

US: Self-defence?

STERLING: Well yeah, it's the casa rule, you know? If it threatens your home, you can shoot it. It doesn't just apply to people.

What kind bullet stops a grizzly bear? we asked. The answer, apparently, is: a hollow-point bullet with engraving on the ogive.

Sterling took his leave, but was back hours later, after we'd eaten his fish. (They were delicious.) This time, he was offering two Dungeness crabs (retail price: about $30 a crab). Not wanting to part with more alcohol, we bought them for $5 each.