Caribou/Fishing combo Aug 07 ???

I am sure these questions have been asked before but any info. would help me out. First of all I have never been to Alaska. Second my wife and I with another couple are wanting to plan a caribou/fishing trip for August of 07'. The guys want to go Caribou hunting and then when we are done, we will take the ladies fishing. So....is Aug 07 to early or to late for a hunt? Should we go guided or unguided? Any recomendations for an outfitter. Any other suggestions for an excursion like this. What do you think a rough estimate would be including air fair ect. from the states (New Mexico) We are looking to go and do this before we start having kids. thanks a lot Caleb

NMHS, August is a great time to be in the field in Alaska. The bugs can be horrible, but the temps are nice. Most folks would tell you to go with a guide since you are taking the wives along. It can be much easier with a guide as you, and most importantly her, won't have to do alot but hunt/fish. In august, the caribou will be in velvet, the temps warm, and the bugs bad. Knowing how to care for meat is critical in warm weather with bugs. Going with a guide will allow you to only take your personal gear and not everything if you had decided to go DIY.

I am in the military, currently stationed in Albuquerque at Kirtland AFB. Where are you located at in NM? If you want, drop me a message and I can probably give you a lot more detailed info than here.

Cost from Albuquerque to Anchorage is or at least was, fairly reasonable, considering the gas prices. I flew up in Jun 05 using Northwest and splurged a bit to go first class (its a long flight up) and spent just about $1K/person RT. If I had wanted to go coach, it would have been in the neighborhood of $600.

This is only a little bit, but I hope it helps.

Take care,
Dave

I used to live in Gallup, NM of all places and now I live in Anchorage. If you are an experienced hunter I don't think you need a guide for caribou and fishing. Here is my recommendation.

I would recommend PaPa Bear Adventures. They do first class drop camps for moose, caribou, and fishing. The also rent any equipment that you might need. Call Steve Powers at (907) 543-5225.

http://www.pbadventures.com/

I have personally gone with these guys on several adventures and they always do a great job. Rent a satellite phone from Papa Bear and have a fun trip. Contact me if you have any questions.

Steve B.