The Lands
View from Refuge BoathouseKoniag holds title to the surface estate of approximately 56,860 acres of land surrounding Karluk Lake, Karluk River and the Sturgeon River. These water bodies and the lands surrounding them provide world-class hunting and fishing opportunities as well as being some of the few remaining links to traditional ways of life for the shareholders of Karluk and Larsen Bay. Because of this, Karluk Wilderness Adventures (KWA) is working to preserve the integrity and history of the lands while providing job and business opportunities for all Koniag shareholders.
KWA
Karluk Wilderness Adventures (KWA) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Koniag, Inc. Formed in 2003 in response to management needs created by the Karluk Conservation Easement, the KWA board advises Koniag staff on issues relating to the management of the lands surrounding Karluk Lake, Karluk River and the Sturgeon River.
Conservation Easement
Koniag entered into a conservation easement with the State of Alaska and the US Fish and Wildlife Service in 2002. Terms of the agreement include development restrictions and use regulations for Koniag, as well as allowing the US Fish and Wildlife Service the right to manage all unguided (i.e. private) use upon the land. Koniag retained the right to manage and collect revenue from all commercial operations.
Recreating on Easement Lands
The conservation easement provides opportunities for both guided and unguided users to recreate on KWA lands. Opportunities abound for phenomenal outdoor adventures on the rivers and lakes and the adjoining lands.
Karluk River
The Karluk River is host to one of Kodiak Island’s exciting king salmon runs. The river is also home to sockeye (reds), pinks, and cohos (silvers) as well as steelhead, dolly varden and rainbow trout. While you fish keep a close eye out for the local fox, sitka blacktail deer and the famous Kodiak Brown Bear.
Choose to rent one of Koniag’s cabins for an extended stay or camp along the banks as you float the river.
Karluk Lake
Karluk Lake is an ideal setting for wildlife viewing and passive recreation. From Koniag’s cabins on Camp Island, at the south end of the lake, you can sit on the deck and watch the eagles float overhead while bears trek the opposite lakeshore. Or if you are more adventurous, utilize the services of a bear viewing guide and visit the viewing platform that looks over Thumb River.
Sturgeon River
While a little harder to get to than Karluk Lake or Karluk River, the Sturgeon River offers phenomenal runs of Chum (Dog) salmon early in the year. Additionally, pink and coho salmon can be found making their way upstream, along with the steelhead and the always present rainbow trout.
