JOIN US IN ALASKA | AUGUST 26-31, 2025
SOLD OUT!
BROWN BEARS FISHING DURING SALMON RUN
WOLVES, LYNX, MOOSE, CARIBOU, FOX, BALD EAGLES
AUGUST 26 to 31, 2025
$8,950 USD + 5% G.S.T PER PERSON
easy
Participants should be in good physical health and able to hike 2 miles while carrying your own gear.
10 Total
100% Sold Out - As of March 2025
Chase Teron
Mitch McPherson
JOIN US IN ALASKA | AUGUST 26-31, 2025
(SOLD OUT!)
BROWN BEARS FISHING DURING SALMON RUN
WOLVES, LYNX, MOOSE, CARIBOU, FOX, BALD EAGLES
AUGUST 26-31 2025
$8,950 USD + 5% G.S.T PER PERSON
easy
Participants should be in good physical health & carry their own gear
10
SOLD OUT as of March 2025
Chase Teron
Mitch McPherson
Immerse yourself in the vast and wild beauty of Alaska’s Katmai and Lake Clark National parks with us!
Join us on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Alaska's wilderness.
Our exclusive lodge, nestled between Katmai National Park, Lake Clark National Park, and Bristol Bay, offers an unparalleled escape. Located on the serene north shore of Lake Iliamna, Alaska's largest lake, our lodge is accessible only by plane, providing a truly remote and pristine experience. Witness the world's largest salmon migration, with over 23 million salmon returning each summer to our Bristol Bay watershed.
Witness an abundance of bears, with some days offering sightings of 50-100 bears. Explore secret spots in Katmai and Lake Clark known only to our team, including Brooks Falls and Sedge Grass Meadows. Suitable for all fitness levels and photography skills, from professionals to iPhone users.
Safety is our top priority, with comprehensive briefings and experienced bear guides. Enjoy a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, making our lodge a favorite among professional photographers and notable guests, including US Congressmen and Presidents.
Who's this photo tour and workshop for? How do you know this is the right style of trip for you?
Since 2015, our guests are hobbyist to professional photographers meaning some folks bring smartphones and others bring mirrorless cameras and big lenses.
For us, the most important requirement to join, is that you are a nice person, you have a great attitude and you love and respect Mother Nature.
Some guests ask a lot of questions and need a lot of help, others just want us to put them in the best position and get them the best access for wildlife shots and want to focus on editing instruction afterwards.
This trip requires you to carry your own gear and walk short distances and it's not too strenuous so if you can walk 2 miles or 3kms without any issues, you're a good candidate.
We also do a quick 15 minute chat before you can put a deposit down so we can understand your expectations and get to know you.
Each day’s adventure is flexible and tailored to your interests and capabilities. Our operation is customizable, allowing you to decide your daily activities based on weather conditions and personal preferences.
DAY 1 - August 26: ARRIVAL AND ORIENTATION:
Your journey begins with a flight to Iliamna, preferably with Lake and Penn
(if you're booked already, we're organizing the hopper flight so we can all fly at a discounted rate together approx ~$300 (one way) and around ($500-600 total). So hold off on booking!)
Our staff will greet you upon arrival and provide transportation to the lodge, where the rest of the team eagerly awaits. After introductions, we'll help you settle into one of our five cabins, each equipped with a full bathroom and two beds.
Once you're settled, head over to the main lodge for hors d'oeuvres in the “great room,” which offers panoramic views of Lake Iliamna and Roadhouse Mountain. Relax, socialize, play a game of pool, explore the Alaskan antiquities on display, or simply soak in the view.
Orientation will follow, ensuring all your questions are answered about the week ahead. You'll be individually fitted with state-of-the-art Gore-Tex waders and wading boots, perfect for staying dry through river crossings and swamps. Dinner, a multi-course gourmet feast, will be served at 7:00 PM. Afterward, we’ll discuss options and make plans for the next day's activities, accommodating any special needs for photography or other logistics.
DAY 2 - August 27: BROOKS FALLS
After a hearty breakfast, you'll board one of our aircraft to begin your adventure. Our fleet includes seaplanes and tundra-tire bush planes, providing access to remote locations. Today, we’ll visit Brooks Falls to capture iconic images of fish jumping up the falls, met by hungry bears. By mid-morning, we’ll escape the crowds and fly to a secluded stream where a familiar 12-year-old sow and her cubs await. You'll have the place to yourselves, allowing for uninterrupted photography.
On the flight back, enjoy aerial views of the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, Mount Katmai, Crater Lake, and Novarupta. Each day concludes with photography lessons from your tour guides, Mitch and Chase, who will help you review and edit your photos.
DAY 3 - August 28: THE CONFLUENCE
Today's destination is Katmai National Park to photograph coastal brown bears fishing. After landing on a small alpine lake, a short walk will lead you to the confluence of two creeks, a prime spot for bear viewing. Your guide, with decades of experience, will ensure you get the best images. After a day of excitement, return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner and an evening of sharing photos and stories.
DAY 4 - August 29: COASTAL BEACHES AND SEDGE GRASS MEADOWS
Departing mid-morning, you'll fly to the Katmai coast, landing on a beach just in time for low tide. Photograph bears digging for clams and grazing on sedge grasses. You might also spot a wolf near this secluded beach. Today involves more walking as we explore the tidal flats and sedge meadows. The return flight will offer spectacular views of Mount Douglas's glaciers and ice fields.
DAY 5 - 30: FLEX DAY FOR PHOTOGRAPHY - ANY LOCATION WE WISH!
This day is a flex day so we'll poll the group to determine what shots you haven't got already or want to try and get more shots from a specific spot for your portfolio. We could all go to Brooks Falls, the confluence, the meadows or find a secret spot that we find with a ton of bears.
DAY 6 - 31: RETURN TO THE CONFLUENCE
On your final day, revisit the confluence of two creeks from Day 3. Witness bears feasting on Sockeye Salmon in the shallow waters, capturing even more memorable photos. After a fulfilling day, fly back to the lodge, freshen up, and prepare for your departure. Our staff will transport you to Iliamna Airport for your evening flight back to Anchorage.
DAY 6 - 31: RETURN TO THE CONFLUENCE
On your final day, revisit the confluence of two creeks from Day 3. Witness bears feasting on Sockeye Salmon in the shallow waters, capturing even more memorable photos. After a fulfilling day, fly back to the lodge, freshen up, and prepare for your departure. Our staff will transport you to Iliamna Airport for your evening flight back to Anchorage.
Our lodge offers a cozy Alaskan-style great room with spectacular lake and mountain views. Guests can relax by the fireplace or enjoy a game of pool in the recreation room. Each of our lodge bedrooms and cedar-paneled guest cabins is equipped with private bathrooms and unlimited hot water, ensuring a comfortable and private retreat after a day of adventure.
We are surrounded by 18 million acres of roadless wilderness. The lodge sits on the north shore of majestic Lake Iliamna, Alaska’s largest lake, and the place we call home. Our Bristol Bay watershed has the world's largest salmon migration with over 23 million salmon returning to spawn every summer.
Our Alaskan style great room provides a cozy atmosphere for guests to enjoy our spectacular lake and mountain views. Guests may relax by the fireplace in our living room or enjoy a game of pool in the recreation room, all the while reminiscing about the day’s adventure while planning tomorrow’s. Our standards are high when it comes to atmosphere and comfort. Our lodge bedrooms and cedar paneled guest cabins are all fully equipped with individual bathrooms and unlimited hot water along with the assurance of privacy and rest after a full day of adventure. There is all sorts of history on display throughout the lodge as well, including the largest Brown Bear skull ever recorded!
UNIQUE FEATURES:
Exclusive Aircraft Fleet: With 5 dedicated aircraft, including float planes and tundra-tire bush planes, our 10 guests + 2 guides enjoy unrivalled access to even the most remote locations.
Bush-Flying Photo Safaris: Capture stunning vistas of glaciers, active volcanoes, the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, majestic waterfalls, and untouched coastlines.
Wildlife Encounters: Encounter an array of wildlife, including coastal brown bears, walrus, wolves, lynx, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, sea otters, and more.
Safety is our top priority, with comprehensive briefings and experienced bear guides. Enjoy a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, making our lodge a favorite among professional photographers and notable guests, including US Congressmen and Presidents.
DINING AND CUISINE :
Indulge in gourmet meals included in your all-inclusive package. Our 5-star culinary experience features a variety of dishes. We accommodate all dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Please inform us of any specific dietary needs in advance.
EXPERIENCED BUSH PILOTS:
Our skilled pilots ensure safe and productive viewing or photographing experiences. Lodge host Jerry Jacques has over 14,000 hours of Alaska bush-flying experience, holds the Alaska Master Guide License #110 and is your expert host for an unforgettable adventure. His stories of this rugged wilderness will keep you in awe during our time together.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
✔Unparalleled Landscapes and Wildlife Encounters
✔Exclusive access in Katmai National Park
✔Accommodations at the best lodge in Alaska!
✔ All Meals
✔ Wildlife Guiding / Licenses
✔ Bush Plane Access Each Day
✔ Photography Instruction In-Field
✔ Photography Instruction Editing Lessons
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Recommended Camera Gear & Clothing
I've never seen so many bears anywhere - ever. We had lots of sightings each day so I was able to put some new techniques into practice without worrying about losing "the shot."
A must for any bear enthusiast or nature lover - this is
quintessential autumn exploration with the joy of seeing these incredible creatures up close.
Immerse yourself in the vast and wild beauty of Alaska’s Katmai and Lake Clark National parks with us!
Join us on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Alaska's wilderness. Our exclusive lodge, nestled between Katmai National Park, Lake Clark National Park, and Bristol Bay, offers an unparalleled escape. Located on the serene north shore of Lake Iliamna, Alaska's largest lake, our lodge is accessible only by plane, providing a truly remote and pristine experience. Witness the world's largest salmon migration, with over 23 million salmon returning each summer to our Bristol Bay watershed.
Witness an abundance of bears, with some days offering sightings of 50-100 bears. Explore secret spots in Katmai and Lake Clark known only to our team, including Brooks Falls and Sedge Grass Meadows. Suitable for all fitness levels and photography skills, from professionals to iPhone users.
Safety is our top priority, with comprehensive briefings and experienced bear guides. Enjoy a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, making our lodge a favorite among professional photographers and notable guests, including US Congressmen and Presidents.
Each day’s adventure is flexible and tailored to your interests and capabilities. Our operation is customizable, allowing you to decide your daily activities based on weather conditions and personal preferences.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AND ORIENTATION:
Your journey begins with a flight to Iliamna, preferably with Lake and Penn. Our staff will greet you upon arrival and provide transportation to the lodge, where the rest of the team eagerly awaits. After introductions, we'll help you settle into one of our five cabins, each equipped with a full bathroom and two beds.
Once you're settled, head over to the main lodge for hors d'oeuvres in the “great room,” which offers panoramic views of Lake Iliamna and Roadhouse Mountain. Relax, socialize, play a game of pool, explore the Alaskan antiquities on display, or simply soak in the view.
Orientation will follow, ensuring all your questions are answered about the week ahead. You'll be individually fitted with state-of-the-art Gore-Tex waders and wading boots, perfect for staying dry through river crossings and swamps. Dinner, a multi-course gourmet feast, will be served at 7:00 PM. Afterward, we’ll discuss options and make plans for the next day's activities, accommodating any special needs for photography or other logistics.
DAY 2: BROOKS FALLS
After a hearty breakfast, you'll board one of our aircraft to begin your adventure. Our fleet includes seaplanes and tundra-tire bush planes, providing access to remote locations. Today, we’ll visit Brooks Falls to capture iconic images of fish jumping up the falls, met by hungry bears. By mid-morning, we’ll escape the crowds and fly to a secluded stream where a familiar 12-year-old sow and her cubs await. You'll have the place to yourselves, allowing for uninterrupted photography.
On the flight back, enjoy aerial views of the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, Mount Katmai, Crater Lake, and Novarupta. Each day concludes with photography lessons from your tour guides, Mitch and Chase, who will help you review and edit your photos.
DAY 3: THE CONFLUENCE
Today's destination is Katmai National Park to photograph coastal brown bears fishing. After landing on a small alpine lake, a short walk will lead you to the confluence of two creeks, a prime spot for bear viewing. Your guide, with decades of experience, will ensure you get the best images. After a day of excitement, return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner and an evening of sharing photos and stories.
DAY 4: COASTAL BEACHES AND SEDGE GRASS MEADOWS
Departing mid-morning, you'll fly to the Katmai coast, landing on a beach just in time for low tide. Photograph bears digging for clams and grazing on sedge grasses. You might also spot a wolf near this secluded beach. Today involves more walking as we explore the tidal flats and sedge meadows. The return flight will offer spectacular views of Mount Douglas's glaciers and ice fields.
DAY 5: RETURN TO THE CONFLUENCE
On your final day, revisit the confluence of two creeks from Day 3. Witness bears feasting on Sockeye Salmon in the shallow waters, capturing even more memorable photos. After a fulfilling day, fly back to the lodge, freshen up, and prepare for your departure. Our staff will transport you to Iliamna Airport for your evening flight back to Anchorage.
Our lodge offers a cozy Alaskan-style great room with spectacular lake and mountain views. Guests can relax by the fireplace or enjoy a game of pool in the recreation room. Each of our lodge bedrooms and cedar-paneled guest cabins is equipped with private bathrooms and unlimited hot water, ensuring a comfortable and private retreat after a day of adventure.
We are surrounded by 18 million acres of roadless wilderness. The lodge sits on the north shore of majestic Lake Iliamna, Alaska’s largest lake, and the place we call home. Our Bristol Bay watershed has the world's largest salmon migration with over 23 million salmon returning to spawn every summer.
Our Alaskan style great room provides a cozy atmosphere for guests to enjoy our spectacular lake and mountain views. Guests may relax by the fireplace in our living room or enjoy a game of pool in the recreation room, all the while reminiscing about the day’s adventure while planning tomorrow’s. Our standards are high when it comes to atmosphere and comfort. Our lodge bedrooms and cedar paneled guest cabins are all fully equipped with individual bathrooms and unlimited hot water along with the assurance of privacy and rest after a full day of adventure. There is all sorts of history on display throughout the lodge as well, including the largest Brown Bear skull ever recorded!
UNIQUE FEATURES:
Exclusive Aircraft Fleet: With 5 dedicated aircraft, including float planes and tundra-tire bush planes, our 10 guests + 2 guides enjoy unrivalled access to even the most remote locations.
Bush-Flying Photo Safaris: Capture stunning vistas of glaciers, active volcanoes, the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, majestic waterfalls, and untouched coastlines.
Wildlife Encounters: Encounter an array of wildlife, including coastal brown bears, walrus, wolves, lynx, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, sea otters, and more.
Safety is our top priority, with comprehensive briefings and experienced bear guides. Enjoy a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, making our lodge a favorite among professional photographers and notable guests, including US Congressmen and Presidents.
DINING AND CUISINE:
Indulge in gourmet meals included in your all-inclusive package. Our 5-star culinary experience features a variety of dishes. We accommodate all dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Please inform us of any specific dietary needs in advance.
EXPERIENCED BUSH PILOTS:
Our skilled pilots ensure safe and productive viewing or photographing experiences. Lodge host Jerry Jacques has over 14,000 hours of Alaska bush-flying experience, holds the Alaska Master Guide License #110 and is your expert host for an unforgettable adventure. His stories of this rugged wilderness will keep you in awe during our time together.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
✔ All Meals Provided
✔ Unparalleled Landscapes and Wildlife Encounters
✔ Wildlife Guiding / Licenses
✔ Bush Plane Access
✔ Photography Instruction In-Field & Editing
WHAT'S EXTRA (NOT INCLUDED)
Recommended Camera Gear & Clothing
I've never seen so many bears anywhere - ever. We had lots of sightings each day so I was able to put some new techniques into practice without worrying about losing "the shot."
A must for any bear enthusiast or nature lover - this is
quintessential autumn exploration with the joy of seeing these incredible creatures up close.
Chase Teron
Co-Founder Artica Studios
Photographic Instructor
"This is the best lodge to stay at and we'll be going to remote locations with tons of bears during the best time of year, so I cannot wait to get there and experience it in person with you all! We'll be enjoy the Alaskan wild, creating memories together and my goal is to get you in position to take your BEST EVER BEAR PHOTOS!"
-Chase
Mitch McPherson
Wildlife Photographer and Outdoorsman
"There is just nothing like this place, up close and personal with these massive animals and I can't wait to share it with you.
Get ready for a jam packed itinerary with Bears, bears and more bears, combined with professional instruction and help if you need it and we'll enjoy helping you edit photos while having delicious meals and drinks after each day."
-Mitch
FYI: This trip is not for everyone. We only travel with nice people. so if this is you, then GREAT!
1. Our small groups mean we interview every applicant before accepting your booking, to be sure we will all have a great time together and make the most of the voyage.
2. Request a call below to chat with an Artica Team Member to move forward.
3. We can discuss pricing, itinerary, answer your questions and you'll get a strong understanding of what to expect
4. Because of this, we also have a high rate of LOYAL return-guests, so don't hesitate to book your call below!
If you have any questions, please email us at hello@artica-studios.com.