Brown Bears Fishing in Alaska

Premium, Small-Group Bear Photography in the Heart of Katmai

Join Ken Anderson for an unforgettable 7-day photography expedition to Katmai, Alaska, during the peak of the brown bear salmon run. Designed for photographers who want to fully immerse themselves in one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles, this experience offers remote access to top bear-viewing sites, professional instruction, and the comfort of a private lodge—all with a tight-knit group of just 10 participants.

Tour Length:

7 days

Group Size:

Limited to 10 photographers

Price:

$10,700 USD per person – includes accomodation and all meals

2026 Tour Dates

One Tour Only: August 2026 — Exact dates to be announced

Tour Highlights

  • Wildlife Photography Paradise: Katmai is renowned for its thriving brown bear population, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. From playful cubs to massive adults, every moment is a potential masterpiece.

  • Daily Fly-Out Excursions: Each day, experience the thrill of a fly-out to a new bear-viewing location. Our carefully planned itinerary ensures that you have the best chance to witness bears engaging in various activities, from fishing to playing in the water. One day we will visit iconic Brooks Falls.

  • Mountain Lodge Comfort: Immerse yourself in the heart of Katmai at our brand-new mountain lodge, exclusively designed for bear photographers. Located amidst the pristine wilderness, the lodge provides a comfortable and cozy base for your photography adventures.

  • Gourmet Dining: Indulge in gourmet dining each night, savoring delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs. After a day of bear photography, unwind in the comfort of the lodge, sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts.

  • Expert Host: Hosted by Ken Anderson, an accomplished wildlife photographer from Canada, this tour provides a unique opportunity to learn from and be inspired by his expertise. Benefit from his insights, tips, and guidance throughout the journey.

  • Expert Guides: In addition to Ken, our experienced team includes a dedicated bear guide. They are well-versed in the behavior of Alaskan brown bears and skilled in navigating the terrain, ensuring you have the best possible opportunities for capturing remarkable shots.

  • Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 10 participants, this tour strikes the perfect balance between community and personal instruction. There’s ample space at each location to work comfortably and time to connect with both the guide team and fellow photographers.

A large brown bear sitting on a rocky riverbank with a smaller bear in the background and green trees in the background.
Baby brown bear standing on a rock in a river, looking forward with its mouth open.
A grizzly bear catching a fish in a river with rushing water.
A large brown bear standing in a river, drinking water with fish in its mouth, surrounded by rocks and white birds on the shoreline.
Two bears fighting in a grassy landscape with hills and trees in the background.
A brown bear running through a shallow river with water splashing around it.
A bear standing in water, holding and eating a fish with a green, blurred background.
A brown bear wading through a shallow river surrounded by green foliage.
A brown bear walking through a shallow river with a rocky bed.
A bear holding a large fish in its mouth in a river, with water and a seagull in the background.
Two young bears standing on their hind legs, facing each other and touching paws on a grassy, slightly rocky field.
A baby brown bear standing on rocks near water with mouth open
A bear stands in a river holding a fish in its mouth.
Two bears, one young and one adult, playfully facing each other in a lush, green meadow with tall grass and bushes.

What’s Included

  • 5 days of guided brown bear photography, including one day at Brooks Falls

  • Daily float plane access to a variety of bear-rich locations

  • Comfortable wilderness lodge with private rooms and bathrooms

  • All meals included – gourmet dinners, hearty breakfasts, and packed lunches

  • Personalized instruction and in-field support

  • Optional evening image reviews and editing sessions

  • Detailed pre-trip itinerary with travel and gear recommendations

What’s Not Included

  • Travel to/from Anchorage, Alaska

  • Round-trip flights between Anchorage and Iliamna (approximately $600 USD)

  • Hotel accommodations before and after the Anchorage segment of the tour

  • Tips for lodge staff and bear guide

Fitness Level Required

Moderate - You should be in good enough condition to carry your pack while walking up to 5 miles per day on mostly flat ground with several breaks. River crossings are required, and we do our best to ensure the water is below knee-high where we cross, although that’s not guaranteed. If you are uncomfortable with crossing, please let us know, and the group can help each other. Days are long, as we typically fly out at 7:30 AM and return to the lodge around 7:30 PM.

Payment & Booking Details

  • Tour Cost: $10700 USD per person + 5% GST tax

  • Deposit Options:

    • $500 deposit (non-refundable) to reserve your spot, with the balance up to 50% due within 60 days of booking.

    • 50% deposit at booking (non-refundable portion: $500).

  • Final Payment: Remaining balance due 90 days prior to the workshop or tour start date.

  • Currency: All payments are in Canadian Dollars unless otherwise noted. If you wish to pay in U.S. Dollars, personal checks are accepted by mail and full payment is required if paying in USD funds. Note: your spot is not confirmed until payment is received and processed.

  • Payment Reminders: Email reminders for final payment will be sent automatically.

Cancellation Policy

This tour involves accommodations and other arrangements requiring non-refundable, advance commitments by Ken Anderson Photography.

  • The $500 deposit to reserve your spot is non-refundable.

  • If you cancel before final payment is due, all payments will be refunded minus:

    • The $500 deposit to reserve your spot

    • Any unrecoverable third-party costs (e.g., permits, lodging, transportation deposits).

  • If you cancel after final payment, no refund will be issued.

    • If your spot is filled by another participant, we will refund the full amount paid minus the $500 deposit to reserve your spot.

  • We strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation and travel insurance to protect your investment.

Waiver Notice

All participants are required to sign a liability waiver prior to joining any Ken Anderson Photography workshop or tour. The waiver outlines the inherent risks associated with wildlife photography in remote environments and affirms your responsibility for personal safety.

A digital waiver will be sent to you upon registration, and must be completed before the start of the workshop. If you have any questions about the waiver, please contact me.