Base Camp

Camp- The camp is open during July, August, and September and is located 25 miles above the village of Kobuk on the Kobuk River along the foothills of the Brooks Range. The campsite was selected years ago by Raymond’s father because it is an excellent location for fishing and hunting. It is called Galluriiuik Camp which means “salmon spawning” by the People (upper Kobuk people). It is also located along the path that the Northwest Arctic caribou herd follows each year during their migration. From the camp and surrounding areas you can witness thousands of caribou crossing the river during late August and early September.

	This is a traditional Inupiat Eskimo camp where Raymond, his parents, his nine other siblings and their families come each year to gather food for the long, cold winter months ahead. Eighty-foot gill nets are set to catch large amounts of chum salmon and white fish. Seining is also done to bring in fish; a 300-foot net can bring in 150-200 salmon at one time. After the fish are brought in, the women cut them, clean them, and hang them out on fish racks to dry for several days. Then they can be stored away and ready to eat during the winter.

Lots of berry picking is also done while out at camp. Fresh blueberries and cranberries are a tasty treat, and are also frozen and stored away for later use.

	The men spend most of their time out hunting so that fresh meat can be eaten at the camp. Meat is also dried and put away for winter. This includes caribou, moose, and bear meat.

This is a unique and exciting experience for anyone who wants to see the Wilderness of the Last Frontier. If you are a professional fisherman, or just getting started, this is a perfect place to come and learn more.