Established in 1979
Kodiak Island is known worldwide for BIG salmon, BIG halibut, and BIG bears!

Owned & Operated
by Mike Carlson

Larsen Bay Lodge is the oldest hunting and fishing operation in Larsen Bay, Alaska. Mike's dad, Frank Carlson opened the lodge in 1979. Mike has run operations since the mid 1980’s and his son, also Frank, is now guiding.

Frank Carlson

Frank was born in the nearby village of Karluk, as was his father and his grandfather before him, and was raised in Larsen Bay. He met Mike's mother, Jeanne, in Washington State on his way to serve our country in the Korean War. After the war Frank brought his bride back to Larsen Bay where they lived for the rest of their lives. Frank was well respected and served in the local community for many years as Mayor and President of the Tribal Council.

Mike Carlson

Mike's Mom and Dad instilled in Mike a strong sense of place and appreciation for this beautiful and rugged corner of the world. Mike grew up hunting and fishing in the mountains, lakes, rivers, and saltwater bays surrounding Larsen Bay. At the early age of 15, Mike was already helping transport and guide hunters for his Dad.

In later years Mike bought his own commercial fishing vessel and began fishing commercially for salmon and participating in what is commonly accepted as "The Most Dangerous Occupation in the World" - crabbing during the winter months in the harsh and unforgiving Alaskan waters.

Mike took over operation of the Larsen Bay Lodge from his ailing father in the mid-1980’s. During the intervening years, Mike has transformed the lodge from a small 6 client lodge to a beautiful beachfront complex consisting of 2 main lodges and 2 waterfront cabins that can now accommodate up to 24 people. All the support facilities have grown with the lodge as well, including kitchens, skinning shed, maintenance shop and guide's quarters.

Mike is a Registered Big Game Guide in the State of Alaska and like his father continues to give back to his community. He has served on the City Council and the Tribal Council for many years. He also supports the Elders by subsistence hunting for them. Mike is a Shareholder in the Koniag Native Corporation, which gives Larsen Bay Lodge access to native lands where outsiders are not permitted. He has also been involved in meetings with The Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game,, as well as the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge,, as those agencies administer invaluable management of the wildlife resources and habitat found on Kodiak Island

Mike and his wife Tamarin live at the lodge and manage its day-to-day operations. Mike’s son Frank, named for the lodge’s founder, recently obtained his Master Coast Guard license and Big Game Assistant Guide license and has become an integral part of this family run business. We are honored to live where we live and do what we do.