Crooked Creek Retreat

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a car?
Yes. You’ll need a car to get to many of your activities and you’ll want one to explore town, sightsee, and shop. Choose a vehicle large enough to comfortably hold your group, luggage, and the fish boxes you’ll be taking home. One more thing to consider: there are many moose on the highway, so a larger, sturdier vehicle is the safest choice.

What extra money will I need?
You’ll want to budget for tips. A typical gratuity for a fishing trip is about $40 per person. For a saltwater trip, expect $60–$100 per person, since there’s both a captain and a deckhand. We also recommend tipping the lodge staff – cooks, servers, housekeepers, and the team that processes your fish. This varies from guest to guest, but we suggest a minimum of $200 per person for a six-night stay. All tips are pooled and distributed according to the hours each staff member worked during your week here.

What is the weather like?
Alaska’s weather is famously unpredictable. The temperature can swing 30° in a single day. Mornings can be chilly, but you might be shedding layers by noon. The sun’s angle here can still give you a sunburn at 65°F, so sunscreen is a must. We provide high-quality rain gear, including rubberized Helly Hansen coats, to keep you dry.

If I’m fishing, how much fish can I expect to take home?
It depends on what you’re fishing for, the time of year, and a bit of luck. If you’re only fishing for salmon, you’ll likely take home less than guests who also fish in saltwater. Toward the end of sockeye season, the limit is six per day. Silver salmon limits start at one or two and increase to three later in the season. They’re larger than sockeye, so the poundage adds up quickly. Some guests go home with 50 pounds of fish, others with 100 or more.

How do I get my fish home?
We clean, vacuum-pack, and freeze your catch to –9°F. We recommend you take it with you as extra luggage. The boxes are insulated and should stay frozen for your entire trip home.

What about meals?
Breakfast is grab-and-go, with plenty of options. For lunch, we provide homemade sandwiches, chips, candy, and sides for you to pack. We also provide coolers and a wide variety of soft drinks and sparkling water. Dinner is a home-cooked meal served family-style, with dessert to finish.

Do you provide alcohol?
No, but you are welcome to bring your favorites. We have wine glasses and barware available, and you’re welcome to bring your drinks to dinner. Let us know what mixers you need and we’ll have them ready for you.

Can you accommodate special diets?
Yes. We frequently host guests who are gluten-free, low-carb, or have allergies. Our cook will go over your needs with you personally to make sure you’re well taken care of.

Do you have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available at the lodge, and we’ll provide the password when you arrive.

What should I bring?
Pack for layers:

• light shirts
• warm outerwear
• rain gear

Bring at least two pairs of shoes and a pair of slippers or indoor shoes for the lodge.

Personal medications

Hat and sunscreen

Plenty of moisture-wicking socks (plus warm wool socks)

A spirit of adventure – come ready to have a great time!

You don’t need to bring fishing gear, we provide loaner rods and reels.