Fishing With Hodge’s Outfitters by MIKE MCCORMACK

“I have been a client of Hodge’s Outfitters since at least 2006 and have been fishing on the Nushagak River with several outfitters since the early 1990’s. A lot of the Nushagak river outfitters come and go due to a lack of understanding of what it takes to succeed and retain clients on a river that has some of the best King salmon fishing in the world (no exaggeration!). Hodge’s outfitters have a camp that is in the ideal location for maximum success, great access with an experienced crew.

The camp is basic but very comfortable with private large tents each accommodating 2 guests with cots, a communal cooking/eating tent/yurt, shower facilities and modern fish processing equipment to preserve your catch. The crew is quite experienced beginning with Jimmy Hodge, owner and chief guide, Cathy Hodge, Jim’s wife and the chief caterer and a crew of 3-4 other guides and camp help, all with over 6 years of specific experience on the Nush and at this camp. The cooking style is for the home cooked, hearty fare including fresh-caught king salmon! The weather can go from quite cool to warm so the good food is not only necessary but greatly appreciated.

I have fished with Jimmy’s boat and he not only knows how to put folks on the fish but is both very professional and personable in managing his clients. In short, it is really fun to be on Jim’s boat! The other guides also work to make the time fishing and entertaining.

To pass the time, there is always the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Moose and raptor sightings are common and bears are occasionally also seen — safely at a distance!

What distinguishes fishing on the Nushagak is that when the Kings are really running a single boat can catch up to 30-50 kings per day! The catch limit is one per day but catch and release fishing is great fun! As this is sports fishing there are no guarantees on catch and more modest daily catches are the norm. However, fishing on the Nushagak is one place in Alaska where the odds are better than any place I can think of to actually catch Kings regularly and in some numbers.

Overall, the best testimonial I can give to Hodge’s camp is that I have returned year after year to the Nush for nearly 20 years and would not use any other outfitter but them. The experience is fun, professional and gives great access to a beautiful corner of Alaska.”

Alaska Hunting  By Bill Anon.

“Jimmy’s years of experience in his guided Alaskan hunts have made him an extremely efficient and organized planner. His attention to detail leaves nothing to chance. Jimmy is a great host, keeping his client’s comfortable while in camp. He is an outstanding cook! I ate well and enjoyed every fire cooked meal.

Jimmy has a great sense of humor, keeping me amused even in challenging situations. I’ve learned a lot about the outdoors over my 10-day hunt with him.

Overall, I had an awesome Experience and are already planning for my next Alaskan adventure with Hodges Outfitters!”