How long does it take to get to the lodge from Anchorage?
The flight from Anchorage to Kulik Lodge takes approximately 1 hour in our Katmai Air Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.
How many guests are there to each guide?
For most situations at Kulik lodge, we operate on a 2 guests to 1 guide ratio, except for some of the fly out destinations where the number of boats available makes 4 guests to 1 guide necessary. Bear viewing trips are generally done in larger groups.
What are the cabins like at Kulik?
Kulik 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. Each cabin has heat, electricity, shower and restroom. Daily housekeeping is provided.
Are you strictly a fly fishing only lodge?
No. 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.
What type of fishing gear is used at the lodges?
Loaner rods and waders are included in your package at Kulik Lodge. Cabelas, Redington and Simms waders, as well as Redington and Sage rods equipped with Ross and Redington reels are available to guests during their stay.
Can we take home the fish we catch?
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.
How are fish packaged to take home?
The salmon you keep are filleted, vacuum packed, frozen and packed in fish boxes for you at the lodge. If you have a long distance to travel home, insulated fish boxes and freezer packs are available to purchase at a number of locations in Anchorage.
What is a fly out and where do you fly out to?
A fly out means that you take an airplane to a different river to fish for the day. We fly to many different areas depending on what type of fish you want to catch and where the best spot for that species is at the time you are there.
If we came to see bears, can we also fish on Kulik River?
Yes. Even if you are joining us mainly for bear viewing purposes, but would like to try your hand at fishing during your stay, you may do so. 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.
When is the best time to fish at Kulik?
Anytime during our season is a good time to visit Kulik. Each week of our season provides a unique fishing experience with different species available.
What is the weather like?
The weather in Katmai can be very unpredictable. It can change greatly even in the same day. Temperatures can range between 45 and 70 degrees and even a bit lower in September. Wind and rain are common so you should dress in layers that can be added or removed throughout the day as the weather dictates.
Are there a lot of bugs?
There can be depending on how dry or wet it has been. Some people choose to bring head nets. Most just bring a good insect repellent. We recommend something with a high DEET concentration for maximum effectiveness.
Are cocktails included in the packages?
Complimentary cocktails are served at Kulik Lodge and are included during your stay. Our beverages typically include Alaskan Amber beer on tap, a selection of wines and premium quality liquors. If you prefer higher end wines or liquors, there will be a selection available for purchase.
How does bear viewing at Brooks work for folks staying at Kulik?
Kulik Lodge guests have the opportunity to fly out to our sister operation, Brooks Lodge, to take advantage of the world class bear viewing at Brooks Falls. The flight to Brooks is approximately 25 minutes via float plane from Kulik Lodge. Unlike our guided fishing fly outs, these flights will not be accompanied by a Kulik 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. From there it is an approx. 5 minute walk to Brooks River and the first bear viewing platform by the bridge at the lower end of the river. It takes approx. 30 minutes to walk to Brooks Falls, where there are 2 bear viewing platforms on the river. You will have the opportunity to visit each of the 3 platforms during your visit. You will depart Kulik lodge after breakfast at approx. 7:00am and depart back to Kulik at around 4:00pm. 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.
What is there to do at the Lodge?
On your arrival or departure day, you will have the opportunity to go fishing with a guide, or go on a tour of Kulik River by boat. 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.
Can I use felt soled wading boots or wading boots with cleats?
No. The Alaska Board of Fisheries has deemed invasive species a significant threat to Alaska’s aquatic ecosystems. Effective January 1, 2012, felt-soled waders and wading boots will no longer be legal footwear when fishing in Alaska’s fresh waters. Wading boots with cleats are also not allowed at the lodge. Our lodges do have rubber soled wading boots for our lodge guests.
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