Accommodations & Meals

The Lodge:

The historic main lodge building, built of native spruce, boasts a large stone fireplace and bar where our guests enjoy complimentary beer, wine, or cocktails, reflect on the day’s adventures, and/or tie flies in preparation for the days to come. The bar is open at 3:00 PM and a bartender will be on duty until 11:00 PM to serve you.

Also located in the main lodge building is the dining area where guests and staff alike gather to dine “family style” on hearty meals prepared by our professional chef and kitchen staff.

All of our guests are housed in comfortable cabins during their stay, each of which include electricity, shower, and private restroom facilities. Towels and bedding are also provided.

The lodge has 11 guest cabins on-site with varying layouts. We have 7 cabins which can accommodate 2 people each, with 2 twin beds, and a private bath. We also have 3 cabins that feature 2 private bedrooms and a shared living space, as well as 1 larger family cabin with 4 beds and a private bath for parties of 3 or 4 who would like to stay together.

Daily housekeeping is provided.

Meals:

Also located in the main lodge building is the dining area where guests and staff alike gather to dine ‘family style’ on hearty meals prepared by our professional chef and kitchen staff.

Hot Tub and Sauna:

Also on-site at the lodge is our sauna and outdoor hot tub where guests routinely rejoice about their day on the water while taking in the spectacular view across Nonvianuk Lake.

Gift Shop:

No visit would be complete without a visit to our gift shop. Merchandise including a selection of fishing supplies, souvenirs, logo-wear, as well as commonly forgotten personal items can be found in the lodge gift shop located next to the office cabin.

Fishing

We can accommodate fly or spin fisherman, although some of the streams that we fish are restricted to fly fishing only. At some of these locations you can still use a spinning rod rigged with a fly or bead. All of our guides are fly fishing instructors so if you would like to learn to fly fish, we can teach you during your stay.

Fly-outs by float plane fishing day trips are available for a nominal additional expense to nearby fisheries.

Species:

Our season runs from mid-June through the end of September, and like most Alaska fisheries, what we fish for (and how we fish for them) depends largely on the time of the year.

Southwest Alaska (the region which we operate) is known for its incredibly diverse fisheries with an impressive variety of game fish available. Our centralized location within Katmai National Park, along with our ability to fly to nearby fisheries, allows us to take advantage of all of these species during peak times.

Rainbow Trout

Home to Kulik Lodge, the Bristol Bay watershed is regarded as one of the most productive fisheries for native rainbow trout in the world.

We’re really fortunate to be located on the banks of the Kulik River, one of the region’s most popular trout destinations, giving our guests access to world-class trout fishing with virtually no travel time or weather restrictions.

We certainly don’t limit our trout fishing to our home waters, however. Guided fly outs through our own Katmai Air flight service allows our guests to target rainbows across Bristol Bay, within a 100-mile radius from our lodge. That allows us to target trout using a bunch of exciting methods depending on our angler’s interests.

As a resident species, rainbow trout are available throughout the duration of our season, although the methods we use to target them can vary by timing.

King Salmon

The largest and hardest fighting salmon of all, the king salmon (aka chinook), will put your gear (and your ego) to the ultimate test.

At Kulik Lodge, we target kings primarily on the mighty Nushagak River, known for supporting one of the largest runs of king salmon in Alaska. While some anglers use flies, due to the deep holding lies of the “Nush,” the majority of our anglers prefer to use conventional gear when targeting kings.

In our neck of the woods, kings are typically available from approximately mid-June through the first week of July, although run timing is subject to vary from year to year.

Silver Salmon

The ultimate crowd-pleaser, silver salmon (aka coho) are known for their extreme willingness to take a fly (or lure) and their impressive acrobatic nature. If that wasn’t enough, they also make for excellent table fare for those interested in keeping a few salmon to bring home.

We fish for silvers on several different rivers depending on a number of factors and they are generally available during the months of August and September.

Chum Salmon

Easily the most underrated game fish in Alaska, chum salmon (aka dog salmon) shock the uninitiated with their aggressive nature and surprising power.

Chums also undergo a unique change in appearance during their spawning run, entering freshwater as uniformly chrome in color only to turn multiple shades of greens, purples, and reds, making them a desired photo opportunity for many of our guests.

Chums are typically available in the waters we frequent as early as mid-July through as late as mid-August.

Sockeye Salmon

Considered by many to be the hardest fighting Pacific Salmon (pound for pound), sockeye salmon (aka red salmon) can make for fast paced fun on both fly and/or light tackle conventional gear.

Many anglers agree that sockeye are also the best tasting species of salmon, and although we typically experience sockeye too late in the spawning run to target in our home waters, we do fly to other areas of Bristol Bay for those interested in fishing for fresh (and edible) sockeye. Peak sockeye fishing typically exists from mid-late June through the beginning of August.

Pink Salmon

Rounding out the fifth species of Pacific salmon native to Alaska, pink salmon (aka humpy) are an exciting addition to the species list for many of our first time guests due to their incredibly unique and ‘prehistoric’ appearance.

The smallest of the Pacific salmon, pinks are known for their lack of apprehension to take a fly and for keeping the rod bent during those rare times in Alaska when you thought you ‘might actually get a break.’

We see pinks in our region from approximately mid-July through mid-August.

Lake Trout

Some incredible fishing opportunities for lake trout exist in the numerous lakes and feeder creeks surrounding our lodge, some of which exist quite literally right out our front door.

Like our resident rainbow populations, impressive quantities of lake trout key in on salmon smolt from approximately mid-June through mid-July, allowing anglers to target lakers in shallower water (with fly or light tackle) than is typically possible during warmer months. A similar phenomenon exists during the month of September when lake trout move back into the shallows as they prepare to spawn.

Arctic Char and Dolly Varden

Arguably one of the most picturesque freshwater fish in Alaska (particularly when touting spawning colors), Arctic char and dolly varden are found in many of the rivers and creeks we fish throughout the year.

Differentiated by a few subtle physical characteristics, Arctic char and dolly varden are actually considered two separate species, although often misidentified by anglers. Luckily, both are found throughout our waters, both are in no way reluctant to take a fly or egg imitation, and both are extremely fun to catch.

Acrtic char and dolly varden exhibit several different life histories depending on a number of factors. Some populations are entirely resident (remain in freshwater) while some are anadramous (spend a portion of their life in saltwater). For this reason, its not uncommon to catch Arctic char and/or dollies from June through September at Kulik.

Northern Pike

Several of the surrounding lakes in our area support healthy populations of toothy Northern Pike. Tossing large surface flies/poppers or top-water plugs is the norm when targeting these big (up to 40-inches or more) toothy predators, and many anglers find it to be an exciting change of pace during their stay.

Peak pike fishing opportunities at Kulik typically exist from approximately mid-June through mid-July, and often picks back up during the month of September.

Arctic Grayling

A gem of Southwest Alaska, the Arctic grayling is a welcomed addition to the long list of species you’re likely to tussle with during your stay at Kulik. Beautiful, unique, and often hungry for traditional dry flies, grayling are found in many of the rivers and creeks we frequent for trout, char, and more.

As a resident species, grayling are available throughout our season, although opportunities to target using particular methods (such as with dry flies) can vary by timing.

Rivers, lakes and streams:

Imagine there are no other fishing lodges in Alaska. Now, picture yourself flying over the heart of Katmai National Park and the greater Bristol Bay watershed looking for just the right place to start a fishing lodge, the only fishing lodge in Alaska.

What would you look for? A spot with epic fishing on-site? Of course. What about a central location with easy access to all the other incredible fisheries in the area? Definitely. As the first fly out fishing lodge in Alaska, that’s exactly how the site for Kulik Lodge was chosen many years ago.

Nestled between the eastern shore of Nonvianuk Lake and the mouth of the Kulik River, Kulik lodge is centrally located between numerous legendary rivers, streams, and lakes across Bristol Bay (and beyond), the majority of which are within a short twenty minute float plane flight from our lodge.

Our fleet of float planes operated by our own Katmai Air flight service allows us to fish many of the most fabled waters of the region (along with a few close-kept secrets) within a 100 mile radius of our lodge, including the following:

Kulik River

Within walking distance of our lodge, the Kulik River is considered by many to be one of the most productive rainbow trout streams in Bristol Bay. This not only gives our guests access to world-class trout fishing with virtually no travel time or weather restrictions (no fly out needed here), it also makes for excellent home water for those looking to take advantage of the midnight sun by fishing on their own (unguided) in the evenings.

This roughly two-mile stretch of river connecting Nonvianuk and Kulik Lake receives a massive run of salmon smolt each year that provide an immense amount of forage to our resident rainbow trout population. This allows us to fish for trout using a bunch of unique methods such as tossing semi-floating streamers to “boils” made by smolt-corralling rainbows, skating mouse patterns, swinging flies with small spey/switch rods, stripping streamers, dead drifting traditional dry flies, dredging egg or flesh imitations, you name it! It’s all in play at some point during our season on the Kulik.

Nonvianuk Lake and Kulik Lake

Our surrounding lakes, Nonvianuk and Kulik Lake, along with numerous feeder creeks that flow into them also provide excellent fishing opportunities for rainbows and lake trout within a jet boat ride away from our lodge.

This makes for some unique fishing experiences, rarely frequented by other operations, available to our guests at times when fly outs are not preferred.

Nushagak River

Known for supporting one of the largest king salmon runs in Alaska (receiving upwards of 100,000 fish per year), the “Nush” is our go-to for those interested in targeting the baddest fish in freshwater.

Stretching over 240 miles long from its headwaters to its entrance into Bristol Bay, the Nushagak is accessed by our guides and guests via a forty five minute float plane flight to our boats stashed on-site.

Kvichak River

Recognized as one of the world’s most productive sockeye salmon systems, the Kvichak River system is a staple of our fishing program at Kulik.

Although occasionally frequented by those interested in harvesting sockeye salmon during their trip (for obvious reasons), it is its high concentrations of trophy-sized, steelhead-like, resident rainbow trout available each fall that draw the most attention from our guests. We call them “silver bullets” for good reason at Kulik, and they make for exciting fishing for trophy trout chasers with single or double handed rods.

Alagnak River

From its headwaters of Kukaklek Lake to its confluence with the Kvichak River, the Alagnak reaps the benefits of the Kvichak’s productive salmon run, supporting all five species of Pacific salmon.

The Alagnak is a salmon factory to say the least, with opportunities to catch rainbow trout and Arctic char as well.

Kamishak River

Our main destination for those interested in fishing for silver salmon, the Kamishak is also home to impressive numbers of char.

Only a short twenty minute float plane flight from our lodge, this fourteen mile coastal river from its headwaters to its entrance into Kamishak Bay is a fan favorite of guests visiting us during the back half of our season.

Brooks River

Most commonly known for its brown bear viewing opportunities at the legendary “Brooks Falls,” during certain times of year the Brooks River is also known for exceptional fly fishing for rainbow trout, char, and grayling.

American Creek

One of the most fabled creeks for rainbow trout and char in Southwest Alaska, the American has become nearly synonymous with Bristol Bay trout fishing. Two popular programs exist on the American: flying into the upper reaches for an intimate hike-in experience, along with accessing the lower six miles via jet boat.

We incorporate both experiences into our fishing program depending on our angler’s interests. Our own Katmai Air service allows us to access the headwaters via float plane and we’re one of only five operations with permitted boat use on the lower.

Other Legendary Bristol Bay Creeks

Aside from the rivers and lakes mentioned above, we also fish a number of legendary creeks known for their unparalleled backcountry trout fishing opportunities such as the Moraine, Funnel Creek, Battle Creek, and the Little Ku just to name a few.

Guides and Gear:

Our guide staff is comprised of twelve professional fishing guides, each of which are experienced anglers and excellent instructors. Regardless of your angling experience, our guides are eager to help you accomplish your goals for the week, while also ensuring your safety within the Alaska wilderness at all times.

Our team of experienced Katmai Air pilots and certified mechanics, some of which live on-site at the lodge, are also an integral part of our fishing program at Kulik. Working closely with our head guide and lodge manager, we’re able to determine the best places to fish and the best species to target based on timing, weather, and our angler’s interests.

Fishing Gear

We fish both fly and conventional gear at Kulik depending on our guest’s preferences. However, its important to note that some (but not all) of the waters we frequent are restricted to fly fishing only. Interested in learning how to fly fish during your stay? No problem, all of our guides are excellent instructors and well-versed in both fly and conventional methods

Although we encourage anglers to bring the gear they enjoy fishing most, we’re able to outfit our guests with quality fishing gear such as Sage and Redington fly rods, Ross and Redington fly reels, as well as Simms, Redington, and Cabelas brand waders at no additional charge. High quality fishing flies and terminal tackle are also provided to our guests by our guides while on the water.

In addition, a large selection of fishing supplies, clothing, souvenirs, and commonly forgotten items are available for purchase on-site as well.

Our Boats

When not fishing on foot (something of which we do a lot of) we use flat-bottom 16-18 foot Lowe Jon boats equipped with 40-60 horsepower jet drive outboards to access the majority of our waters. Considered the workhorse of Alaska, these versatile “jet boats” allow our guides to navigate a wide range of conditions to keep our angler’s fly (or lure) in the right place at the right time.

For our king salmon program on the Nushagak River, we operate larger twenty two foot Koffler jet sleds capable of fishing up to four anglers at a time and are ideal for the heavy current of the “Nush.”

Aside from our motorized vessels, we also utilize a number of inflatable rafts to access several rivers and streams around Bristol Bay where motors are prohibited.

Our Planes

Our air transportation is operated through our own Katmai Air flight service, allowing us to coordinate all of the air travel for our guests traveling to Kulik Lodge from Anchorage, as well as the float plane service for our guided fly outs.

Our float plane fleet consists of six aircraft, including two Cessna single-engine 206’s, two De Havilland single-engine Beavers, and two powerful float-equipped De Havilland turbine-engine Otters that give our anglers the opportunity to fish waters that are inaccessible by many other operations in the area.

Taking fish home:

Due to the short growing season and cold water temperatures in Alaska, resident fish grow and mature slowly. Guests are asked to release all their catch of resident freshwater fish (trout, char, gralying, pike, etc.). A limited amount of salmon may be taken home.

Activities

The lodge is located within Katmai National Park, home to the highest concentration of protected brown bears on the planet. Thus, aside from being one of the most productive salmon and rainbow trout fisheries in the world, superb bear viewing is available nearby.

“Unguided” Bear Viewing Fly Outs to Brooks Falls: For those interested in bear viewing during their stay, we offer free “unguided” bear viewing flights to the legendary Brooks Falls for all guests during the month of July. Unlike our guided fishing fly outs, these flights will not be accompanied by a fishing guide. However, members of our sister lodge, Brooks Lodge, will greet you upon your arrival and usher you to “bear school” where you will receive a brief orientation by the National Park Service. During your time at Brooks, members of both Brooks Lodge and the National Park Service will be available to answer any questions you might have.

Guests are also welcome to fish the Kulik River (unguided) in the evenings on foot. You can also take a walk on the tundra, hike over to Kulik Lake to take in the stunning scenery, soak in the hot tub, or relax by the fire with a book or a cocktail.

Length of Stay / Itinerary

Guests may choose 3, 4, and 7 night trips.

Day 1:  Arrive in Anchorage and overnight on your own arrangements

Day 2:  Arrive at Katmai Air for your float plane trip (included in your pricing) flight to the lodge.

Day 3 – ?:  Enjoy fishing!

Departure day:  After a morning of fishing, your flight plane will collect you from the lodge to return you to Anchorage for your flights home.

Travel Details & Location

The lodge is located within Katmai National Park, a remote area of Alaska accessible only by air. The park is accessed almost exclusively via float plane service.

Most guests arrive in Anchorage and spend the night and then the next morning board your Katmai Air float plane to travel one hour to the lodge.

Katmai Air provides all air transportation from Anchorage to the lodge dock. Those traveling to the lodge will fly from Anchorage to the Lodge aboard our pressurized Pilatus PC-12 aircraft (approx. 1 hour).

Internet & Communications

Getting away doesn’t mean you can’t be connected. Despite our remote location, Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge building. Please note that streaming services are limited (Facetime, Skype, etc.) but bandwidth is generally dependable enough to stay connected via email, social media, iMessage, etc. Should you require the use of a telephone during your stay, lodge phones are also available.

Rates

Pricing: Subject to change – call for updated rates

2024 Price:

June 8 – October 5, 2024

2 1/2 Days / 3 Nights (Arrive Saturday / Depart Tuesday): $6,495 per person.

3 1/2 Days / 4 Nights (Arrive Tuesday / Depart Saturday): $7,495 per person.

6 1/2  Days / 7 Nights (Arrive/Depart Tuesday or Saturday): $9,995 per person.

Included: Round-trip air transportation between Anchorage and Kulik, lodging, meals, guided fishing on the Kulik River (guided fly outs available as add-ons, see rates below), rod and wader rental, flies and terminal tackle, and complimentary cocktails each evening.

Not included: Guided fly outs to nearby fisheries (see fly out rates below), Alaska fishing license, transportation to Anchorage, overnight accommodations in Anchorage, gratuities for lodge staff and guides, gift shop merchandise, and select “top shelf” liquors (available on-site for purchase).

Trip Insurance & Cancellation Info

Trip Insurance & Cancellation Info

Trip insurance is highly recommended to protect your investment on this trip. We will assist you with trip insurance upon booking. See links at the bottom of this page for the two providers we suggest for our clients.

Family Expeditions, LLC confirmation and refund policy:

If your trip is more than 90 days out from date of departure, a 50% non-refundable deposit confirms your reservation and must be received within 10 days of booking to confirm your dates. All trips must be paid in full at least 90 days prior to the departure date. If your trip date is within 90 days, FULL payment for the trip is required. All payments to Family Expeditions are non-refundable. Should you need to reschedule or cancel your trip, we will do everything in our power to assist you in finding a suitable substitute or transferring your dates per the lodge/providers/government requirements. Trip insurance protects your investment!