Wanted to share that we had an awesome hunt experience using Tok Air in early-mid Sept. We simply could not have been in a better place at a better time. Saw thousands of caribou well within range, had plenty of shooters to choose from, and easily scored 2 nice bulls. We did have to ride out a couple of days in the tent in 40-60mph winds/hail/sleet/snow…but also had some gorgeous bluebird days. Saw bears but had no issues. Talked to several other groups of hunters in Tok around the same time and found that many either didn’t see many ‘bou; only had the option of shooting small bulls; had bear problems…or all 3. Knowing lots of other folks who’ve also done drop ‘Bou hunts both in Tok and elsewhere, I am totally aware that that we had amazing luck. To say I’m very thankful for our good fortune is putting it mildly.
At the risk of folks turning this into yet another Tok vs. 40 mile thread, I must say that we found Zack to be a very professional, safe, and respectful pilot. And clearly, he couldn’t have put us in a better spot. For the record, we ran into several 40mile pilots in a staging area and they were all just as friendly as could be. I’d expect nothing less based on their great reputation. We simply chose to go w/ Zack based on availability and 100% positive references from people who’ve hunted w/ him before. We also got to visit w/ one of his moose hunters that was there @ the same time as us and he scored a very nice bull.
Many lessons learned re: gear/packing/etc. I really want to thank this board and so many individual members for answering lots of questions and giving so much good advice. You guys really helped us properly prepare for the hunt. In the spirit of paying it forward, anyone can feel free to contact me if they have questions or need advice.
A few quick parting thoughts based on our experience:
-50lb Weight limit be damned…bring a spotting scope.
-You need a water filter. You just do. And do not trust a Steripen as your only choice
-Yes a Tipi can survive 60mph sustained winds for 24 hours…but it’s a rough ride and you’re going to take some tears. I’d argue the comfort factor it provided for the bulk of the trip was well worth it.
-You can buy shelf-stable Ghee (clarified butter) in individual ketchup-sized packs (in many grocery stores or online). These things are game changers! Not only can they add much needed calories to freeze-dried meals,?they are KILLER for frying up that caribou heart and loin in the field. And they weigh virtually nothing and take up no space.
Wishing all you a safe and successful remainder of your hunting seasons!
At the risk of folks turning this into yet another Tok vs. 40 mile thread, I must say that we found Zack to be a very professional, safe, and respectful pilot. And clearly, he couldn’t have put us in a better spot. For the record, we ran into several 40mile pilots in a staging area and they were all just as friendly as could be. I’d expect nothing less based on their great reputation. We simply chose to go w/ Zack based on availability and 100% positive references from people who’ve hunted w/ him before. We also got to visit w/ one of his moose hunters that was there @ the same time as us and he scored a very nice bull.
Many lessons learned re: gear/packing/etc. I really want to thank this board and so many individual members for answering lots of questions and giving so much good advice. You guys really helped us properly prepare for the hunt. In the spirit of paying it forward, anyone can feel free to contact me if they have questions or need advice.
A few quick parting thoughts based on our experience:
-50lb Weight limit be damned…bring a spotting scope.
-You need a water filter. You just do. And do not trust a Steripen as your only choice
-Yes a Tipi can survive 60mph sustained winds for 24 hours…but it’s a rough ride and you’re going to take some tears. I’d argue the comfort factor it provided for the bulk of the trip was well worth it.
-You can buy shelf-stable Ghee (clarified butter) in individual ketchup-sized packs (in many grocery stores or online). These things are game changers! Not only can they add much needed calories to freeze-dried meals,?they are KILLER for frying up that caribou heart and loin in the field. And they weigh virtually nothing and take up no space.
Wishing all you a safe and successful remainder of your hunting seasons!
sounds awesome though!
