Kulik Lodge

Established in 1950, Kulik Lodge was Alaska’s original fly-out fishing lodge. Today, Kulik remains one of the best lodges for incredible fly fishing and fantastic service in Alaska. Located on the Kulik River, the lodge’s location is central to many of the legendary rivers and lakes of the Bristol Bay region. From Kulik, anglers have access to famed fisheries such as the Nushagak, the Kvichak, and the Alagnak Rivers. In addition to excellent home water on the Kulik, jet boats and optional fly-outs can transport you to dozens of productive locations within a 100-mile radius of the Lodge. For non-anglers, fly-out tours to Brooks Falls offer the lifetime opportunity to photograph Brown Bears from the safety and comfort of elevated platforms in Katmai National Park. At the lodge, guests can enjoy all the comforts of modern civilization including home-cooked meals, private guest cabins, and an on-site sauna. From families with diverse interests to hardcore anglers, Kulik Lodge delivers exceptional service and amenities for everyone.

Who It’s For

•  Novice to advanced anglers
•  Couples and groups
•  Families

When To Go

Kulik Lodge operates from mid-June through September. Throughout the season, anglers have access to wild Rainbow Trout, Char, Grayling, and various species of Pacific Salmon on the home waters of the Kulik River. Early season, from mid-June through mid-July offers opportunities for King Salmon, Sockeyes, Pinks, Char, Lake Trout, and Pike. Mid-season, from mid-July through August brings runs of Chum Salmon and the start of the Silver Salmon run. September brings excellent fishing for Silvers, Char, Lake Trout, and Pike. The entire season at Kulik is special and can offer incredible fishing. When you should come depends on which species you want to target!

Rainbow Trout

The Bristol Bay region of Alaska is well known for its hard-fighting, wild Rainbow Trout which can grow to over 30 inches. At Kulik, you’ll experience these amazing creatures firsthand in the lakes and rivers surrounding the lodge, including the home water on the Kulik River. Techniques for targeting Rainbows can depend on the conditions and the time of the season. Common tactics include drifting dry flies, skating mice, swinging or stripping streamers, and nymphing.

Sockeye Salmon

The Bristol Bay region boasts one of the world's largest Sockeye Salmon (aka Red Salmon) runs, from mid-June through early August. Not only are these brightly red-colored Salmon extremely fun to catch on a fly rod, but their smolt, fry, and eggs create an extremely abundant forage for Rainbows, Char, and Grayling. 

King Salmon

Generally available from mid-June into early July, King Salmon (aka Chinook Salmon) is the largest and strongest of the 5 Pacific salmon species. From Kulik, flyouts to the legendary Nushagak River provide access to one of the largest King Salmon runs in Alaska. 

Silver Salmon

August and September bring runs of Silver Salmon (aka Coho Salmon) into various rivers of the Bristol Bay region. Known for being the most “catchable” of the 5 Pacific salmon species, Silvers reward anglers with acrobatic leaps and brute strength.

Chum Salmon

Available between mid-July and mid-August, Chum Salmon (aka Dog Salmon) is one of the more picturesque salmon species. As they begin spawning, they turn from chrome silver to a striped green, purple, and red coloration. Chums are also highly regarded for their aggressive strikes and hard-fighting nature.

Pink Salmon

From mid-June through mid-August, Pink Salmon (aka Humpy Salmon) migrate up various rivers in the Kulik region. Pinks are characterized by a giant “humpback” appearance, and their long, kype jaws. Their prehistoric looks and their willingness to take flies make them a fun angling target for beginners and advanced anglers alike.

Dolly Varden & Arctic Char

Known for their vibrant spawning coloration, Dolly Varden and Arctic Char are frequently caught in the rivers and lakes surrounding Kulik Lodge. These cousins of the Brook Trout are generally available all season and are happy to eat a variety of well-presented flies from eggs to swung streamers.

Lake Trout

Lake Trout, also known as Mackinaw, resides in the many lakes of the Kulik region. The early season offers anglers the unique opportunity to target Lakers on the fly, as they ravenously hunt for smolt in shallower waters. In September, Lakers again become available to fly anglers as they return to shallow water to prepare for their autumn spawning cycle.

Northern Pike

Northern Pike makes for an exciting fly rod target in the lakes surrounding Kulik Lodge. With their razor-sharp teeth, these ambush predators can grow to over 40 inches due to the abundance of forage species available. Few angling experiences compare to watching a giant Pike turn and attack a popper just yards away from the boat!

Arctic Grayling

Arctic Grayling are a unique species resident to the rivers and streams surrounding Kulik Lodge. Available all season, these gorgeous salmonids are often willing to eat dry flies, adding excellent variety to a day of targeting many species.

Equipment

Kulik Lodge can provide all the fishing equipment needed for a week of fishing, including rods, reels, waders & boots, and terminal tackle. For anglers choosing to bring their own equipment, we recommend bringing 3 rods with matching reels: a 9’ 6wt for dries and nymphing, a 9’ 7wt for nymphing and streamers, and a 9’ 8wt with a sinking line for streamers on the lakes. Your guide will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

Day 1: From Home to Anchorage, Alaska

A week-long trip at Kulik Lodge typically runs from Saturday to Saturday. Getting to the lodge generally begins with a Friday flight to the Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Once you’ve arrived in Anchorage, you will take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel, and spend one night there.

Day 2: From Anchorage to Kulik Lodge

On Saturday Morning, you will take a taxi from your hotel to the Bristol Adventures headquarters, where you’ll board a one-hour flight to Kulik Lodge. Once you’ve arrived at the lodge, you can relax, fish the home water, and enjoy a delicious meal.

Days 3 - 8: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Fishing locations depend on your goals and the daily conditions. Daily adventures could include optional fly-outs, jet-boating to various streams, or fishing the lakes. Hearty cooler lunches are packed by your guide daily, allowing you to eat and relax on the water. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a hot shower and a hearty meal. After dinner, you can enjoy complimentary cocktails and stories with friends, or retire early to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 9: From Kulik Lodge to Anchorage

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Saturday morning before beginning your one-hour flight back to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC). From Anchorage, you’ll typically take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel, where you’ll spend one night.

Day 10: From Anchorage to Home

On Sunday morning, you’ll take a taxi to the Anchorage International Airport (ANC), where you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

Accommodations

Kulik Lodge features 11 guest cabins which can each accommodate up to 2 or 4 anglers, depending on the specific unit. Each cabin features a private bathroom with a hot shower, heat, and electricity.

The historic lodge building, built of native spruce, features a spacious lounging area surrounding a large stone fireplace. An open bar allows guests to enjoy complimentary cocktails and share stories in the evening. The spacious dining room hosts family-style meals for guests and lodge staff and is the perfect place to tell stories of the day’s fishing or to make plans with your guides for the following day.

Adjacent to the lodge and guest cabins sits a separate sauna and outdoor hot tub for guest use, providing relaxation and tranquility after a long day of exciting fishing.

Food

Meals at Kulik Lodge are hearty and delicious, providing anglers with the nourishment they need to fish hard all day. Breakfast is made-to-order in the dining room, and features classic options such as eggs, biscuits, bacon, and strong coffee or tea. Substantial cooler lunches are packed daily by your guide, allowing you to maximize your time on the water. Dinners include meats, fish, sides, and salads, punctuated by delectable desserts. The complimentary bar is available each evening for cocktails, beer, or wine. Premium liquor is also available for purchase.

Connectivity

WiFi and Cell service are not available.

2025 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge. 

Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing. 

Double Occupancy (Per Person)

3 Nights / 2 Days = $6,750

4 Nights / 3 Days = $7,750

7 Nights / 6 Days = $10,250

Fly-Outs

Per Angler / Per Day = $500

What's Included:

•  Air transfers between Anchorage and Kulik Lodge
•  Daily boat and guide service on the Kulik River
•  Lodging at Kulik Lodge
•  All meals at Kulik Lodge
•  Rod and Wader rental
•  Flies and terminal tackle
•  Alcoholic beverages
•  Hot tub and sauna use
•  Alaskan taxes
• Day trips to Brooks Lodge for bear viewing (unguided) June 29 – July 31 at no extra charge (not on arrival or departure days)
   

What's Not Included:

•  Guided fly-outs ($500 per angler, per day)
•  Alaska Fishing License (approximately $70)
•  Airfare to/from Anchorage (ANC)
•  Lodging and meals in Anchorage
•  Gratuities for lodge staff
•  Gratuities for guides
•  Premium liquors

What skill level is required for this trip?

The guides at Kulik Lodge are patient and knowledgeable professionals, capable of guiding anglers of any ability. From first-timers to seasoned veterans, all anglers can find success and enjoyment in the diverse and productive fisheries of the Kulik area.

How should I prepare for a week of fly fishing in Alaska?

Most importantly, you should practice casting a sinking line, as sinking lines can be very effective in lake fishing. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

Is Kulik Lodge Family Friendly?

Kulik Lodge is a great option for families, couples, groups, and solo anglers. Due to the diverse nature of the fishery and the optional non-angling tours available, there is something for everyone at Kulik Lodge.

How many other anglers will be there?

Guest capacity at Kulik Lodge is limited to 24 guests per week, resulting in a lively atmosphere that still feels extremely remote and quaint. The vast fishery surrounding the lodge ensures uncrowded fishing beats and unpressured fish.

How does money work in Alaska?

Although credit cards are accepted throughout Alaska, we advise also carrying enough cash in USD to cover all expenses at the lodge, including gratuities.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company offering excellent, affordable policies for angling travel.

What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?

Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

What wildlife can we see in Alaska?

In addition to amazing fly fishing, seeing the plentiful wildlife is a highlight of any trip to the remote parts of Alaska. At Kulik, you could see Eagles, Moose, Brown Bears, Foxes, and much more. We recommend bringing a packable digital camera to take photos of wildlife during your trip.

Is it safe to fish near the bears?

The Brown Bears of Alaska are wild animals and certainly demand respect and space. That being said, the bears here are typically unbothered by human presence. Your guides will prepare you for any bear encounters to ensure a safe and memorable fishing experience.

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

Electrical outlets are the same as anywhere in the U.S. - 110 Volt AC power.

What is the weather like?

The Bristol Bay region is known for mild, variable summer weather. Temperatures here can range anywhere from the low 40s to the upper 70s, Fahrenheit. With rain and wind possible at any time, we recommend dressing in layers and packing a reliable (Gore-Tex or similar) rain jacket to be prepared for the varying weather conditions at Kulik Lodge.

Is tipping customary in Alaska?

Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated, although it is at your discretion. Tipping 15-20 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.