Fishing and Species
Fishing is accessed by jet boats but fishing is done by wading. The wading is pretty easy, similar to Alaska and mostly gravely on the bottom. Big chunky trout are what most anglers fish for. The Dolly Varden can be 5 -10 lbs and are a lot of fun as well. Dry fly fishing for Grayling or fishing them on the swing is a fun change of pace from chucking big streamers.
Arrivals and Departures
There is no flexibility as there is only one flight per week to Petropovlosk from Anchorage, Alaska. All of the logistics are based around this flight.
Accomodations
There are 4 guest cabins, each has 2 beds, a wood stove and electricity. There are separate hot showers and flush toilets.
Non Anglers / Activities
This is for anglers only
Airport / Logistics
The following is the basic itinerary - Sunday fly to Anchorage and overnight. Depart Monday at 7:30 AM on Yakutia Airlines to Petropovlosk, arriving Tuesday @ 8:00 AM (you have crossed the dateline). Transport from Petro is by van, to where you will meet the Mi-8 heli and fly to the camps. Fishing for 6 days and 6 nights. Depart Monday night @ 9:30 PM. Arrive in Anchorage at 5:50 AM on Monday morning. You will then clear customs and probably fly home that day. The Russian Visa and flight will be booked and assisted by Red Star Travel from Seattle. The exact itinerary changes a little each year. the 2022 flight schedule has not been set yet.
Climate
The weather is typical of Alaska. The days are long in July and into August with daytime temps in the 60's and 70's. It cools off at night into the 50's but is colder as you move towards September. Be prepared with the best rain coat and waders as you will nearly live in them.
Included
The drive and flight from Petro to the river, all meals, a small amount of vodka and beer (bring extra), daily guided fishing with 2 anglers per guide.
Not Included
The flight to Petro from Anchorage, the flight to Anchorage and the overnight there, Russian Visa, Fishing License (about $100) additional alcohol, fishing gear and flies and gratuities. Each angler is required to have medevac insurance such as Global Rescue. Each angler needs to bring their own sleeping bag, sheet for the bed and pillow. This is not the North Pole, so a light bag is fine.
Currency/Credit Cards
US dollars are good for gratuities. No credit cards.
Gratuities
A camp and guide gratuity of 10% + is suggested.
Medical Facilities
The best and nearest medical facility is in Petro. It is mandatory that each angler have Medevac Insurance.
Documentation
You will need a passport that is good for 6 months and a Russian Visa.
Beverages
There is a small amount of beer and vodka included. Please ask about purchasing additional (if you anticipate a thirst or generosity) before you fly into camp.
Laundry
There is no laundry facility in camp. If you need to wash a couple of garments out you can do that.
Phone, Internet, Power
Phone:
Internet:
Power: 110 volts
Best of Kamchatka, Russia
Closed for the 2023 season
The Ozernaya River is one of the most prolific trout rivers in the the world. There are prolific insect hatches, Salmon that bring the nutrients from the sea and their abundant offspring, Sculpins and mice. Whether you are fishing streamers, skating mice or dead drifting dry flies - it will make you smile and laugh with the joy of it all.
The lodge has a 50 year lease on these 60 miles of water. They fish up to 30 miles upstream and 30 miles downstream from the lodge, breaking it into 4 beats that are roughly 15 miles long. The 8 angler lodge is reached by helicopter following a drive out of Petropovlosk.
The lodge has 4 guest cabins, wader room, lodge/dining room, showers and flush toilets. For being in the Russian wilderness the comfort level is quite a treat and the hospitality is warm and generous.