Our team

The ❤ of 58* North

We (Kate & Justin Crump) began guiding in Bristol Bay in 2008, and have since started The Lodge at 58* North with the understanding that fishing is about more than just catching. Our full-service lodge on the Naknek River in beautiful Bristol Bay, Alaska is your base for extraordinary hospitality, world-class fishing, & fulfilling experiences.

See our extraordinary core team below.

Kate Crump

Owner / Guide

Since founding The Lodge at 58° North, Kate has been the visionary force behind our unique offerings. Her passion for hospitality, and commitment to creating memorable experiences, shine through in every aspect of our operations.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of guest needs, Kate ensures that every stay is not just a visit, but a cherished memory. Under her leadership, The Lodge at 58° North has become synonymous with warmth & excellence.

Justin Crump

Owner / Guide

As the co-founder & head guide of The Lodge at 58° North, Justin is the mastermind behind our unparalleled fishing experiences.

With years of expertise and an innate understanding of the local waters, he’s known for his exceptional fishing acumen and ability to connect guests with the thrill of the catch. His passion for the outdoors and dedication to guiding ensure that every fishing adventure is both memorable and rewarding. Under Justin's expert leadership, guests can expect an unforgettable journey into nature, where every cast holds the promise of excitement.

Danny Frank

Communications Director

Since 2014, Danny has been the friendly face you’ll encounter when reaching out to us—he’s the one who knows every detail and ensures everything runs smoothly. His unparalleled attention to detail and quick responsiveness make him the go-to expert for all things booking. With Danny at the helm, you’re guaranteed a seamless and personalized experience from start to finish.

Jason Brown

Head Chef

Our culinary maestro has been enchanting our guests since 2021. With a profound passion for food and a commitment to using the freshest local ingredients, Chef Jason turns every meal into a work of art. His innovative creations are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, elevating your dining experience to new heights. Each dish he crafts reflects his artistry and dedication, making every meal a memorable part of your stay.

Luke McDaniel

Chef

Chef Luke has been delighting guests since joining us in 2024. With extensive experience in fine dining, Chef Luke specializes in elevating home-style flavors to new heights. His dishes combine the comfort of familiar tastes with a sophisticated twist, creating a dining experience that is both refined and heartwarming. His creativity and attention to detail ensure each meal is a masterpiece. Coupled with his boisterous laugh and infectious enthusiasm, he makes every dining experience not just exceptional but also filled with joy and warmth.

Gabe Cunningham

Guide

Gabe Cunningham brings an infectious enthusiasm for fishing in all its forms and a natural gift for teaching.

Growing up in Hood River, Oregon, he spent countless days chasing salmon, steelhead, and trout using every method—developing a deep understanding of different techniques and a genuine love for the sport.

At The Lodge at 58* North, Gabe’s encouraging approach and wide-ranging skills make him a favorite with both seasoned anglers and guests picking up a fly rod for the very first time. His energy and passion turn every day on the water into both an adventure and a lesson in the art of fishing.

Sofia Newton

Guide

Sofia Newton grew up surrounded by the rivers of the Pacific Northwest, fishing the Deschutes and other storied streams near her hometown of Hood River, Oregon.

Her early passion for fly fishing and years of experience on these challenging waters give her a strong foundation of skill and an easy confidence on the river. Sofia brings both expertise and fresh energy to the guide team at The Lodge at 58* North, where she shares her love for wild places and helps guests discover the thrill of fishing Bristol Bay’s legendary waters.

Hailey Alfson

Guide

Originally from Minnesota, Hailey has been drawn to Alaska’s wild rivers since childhood. After spending summers here with her family, she made the move permanent right after high school. Her passion for life on the water started early—working the docks of a floatplane service at just 14. By the time she came of age, she had launched her own guiding business, sharing her love of fishing and the Alaskan wilderness with others.

In 2025, Hailey joined the team, bringing her years of guiding experience and a fresh perspective to our summer season.

Craig Ricks

Pilot

Originally from North Carolina, Craig Ricks found his heart—and his home—in Talkeetna, Alaska. For more than a decade, he has been flying in the Alaskan bush, navigating the wild landscapes that make this region so extraordinary.

Craig brings a true spirit of teamwork to every day at The Lodge at 58* North, ensuring each floatplane flight is both safe and memorable. Guests quickly discover that time with Craig is more than just a ride; it’s a chance to share stories, laugh, and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Alaska’s backcountry.

Jean-Marie Bousquet

Administrative & Marketing Support

Behind the scenes, Jean brings her in-depth knowledge of fly fishing and experiences as an angler to support administrative operations, communications, and marketing efforts for the lodge.

Ryan Friel

Guide

Ryan—affectionately known as "Friels"—has been guiding in Bristol Bay since 1995, bringing decades of knowledge and a deep love for wild salmon and Alaska's native fish.

His passion for the fish and the rivers is matched only by his love for people, great conversation and strong coffee. Guests quickly discover that a day on the water with Friels is as much about camaraderie and storytelling as it is about exceptional fishing.

We’re lucky to have Ryan join The Lodge at 58* North for a short but unforgettable stretch of our summer season.

Nick Basaraba

Lodge Support, Photographer

Nick has been a part of 58*N since the beginning and always comes through to help us when we need an extra hand. You'll see his photos spread throughout our communications and you'll often see his name captioned as an author in fishing magazines like The Drake and The Fly Fish Journal. Originally from Fort Collins, Co, he fell in love with steelhead and spends his time in Oregon chasing chrome when not doing it in Alaska!

Kada Mouse

Greeting Committee

The OG Captain of the Greeting Committee. Sneaky with the licks and stingy with the love. Kada has been with the team since 2011.

Nukka

Greeting Committee

Lieutenant of the Greeting Committee, Nukka has the best smile and is always down to cuddle. Nukka has been a teammate since 2019.

Creative Partners

At The Lodge at 58 North, we believe that every image and video tells a story—a story of elegance, warmth, and the unique charm of our retreat. None of this would be possible without the incredible talent and dedication of our creative partners.  We would like to thank Jeremy Koreski for weaving a visual narrative that engages and inspires those who visit our website and social media channels. Your artistry brings our vision to life in ways words alone cannot express. 

We would also like to thank photographers Nick Basaraba, Bri Dwyer, Chase White, Amber Toner, Robert Dotson, Cassie Bergman, Andrew Burr, David Clancy, Eric Neufeld and videographers Trip Dugas and Jordie LePage.  Each photograph and video is a testament to your passion and expertise, and we are profoundly grateful for the role you play in sharing our story.

Ready for an unforgettable escape?

Explore our packages and start planning your journey to The Lodge at 58* North, where the magic of Alaska awaits.