Events

Big Buck Contest

The Big Buck Contest has been a long-standing tradition at our store in Kodiak, Alaska. Established as the Erik Lochman Memorial in 1986, this contest invites hunters and outdoorsmen alike to submit antlers of the Sitka Black-Tailed Deer from the current hunting season. The contest takes place in Kodiak, within Game Unit 8, between August 1st through December 31st.

RULES & REGULATIONS

TIME FRAME: Only bucks taken between August 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025 will be considered eligible for the contest.

BOUNDARIES: Any buck taken in Game Management Unit 8, as defined by the 2025-2026 State of Alaska Hunting Regulations, will be eligible for entry into the contest.

ENTRIES & SCORING: Antler entries will be accepted between August 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025. Only one set of antlers per contestant may be entered. Entering any other contest with the same antlers automatically disqualifies the contestant from this contest. Big Ray's will score at their convenience, based on Safari Club International Method 18T scoring standards, after the close of the contest. Non-typical racks may be entered, but only typical tines will count in the score. Antlers will only be scored if left with Big Ray's for contest purposes. No antlers will be measured in the velvet. Antlers will be accepted for scoring only when the skullcap is cleaned of all hide, hair, eyes, brain, and blood. Scoring is based on SCI standards but does not constitute an official SCI Score. The judging decision of Big Ray's will be final.

AWARDS CEREMONY

The Big Buck Awards Ceremony will be held at our Kodiak location (212 Lower Mill Bay Rd, Kodiak, AK, 99615). Date and time: TBD

PRIZE STRUCTURE

BIG BUCK: The highest scoring antlers based on Safari Club International standards, Method 18T.
2ND - 5TH PLACE: Determined according to score.
LUCKY BUCK: Determined by a random drawing of all racks entered.
YOUTH BIG BUCK: Highest scoring antlers based on Safari Club International standards, Method 18T entered by a youth hunter age 15 or younger at the time of entry.
This prize can be won in conjunction with Big Buck through 5th place.


Fly Fishing 101 at Big Rays

New to fly fishing or looking to sharpen your fundamentals? Join our Big Ray’s Pro Staff for a hands-on introduction designed to build confidence from the ground up—whether you’re casting for the first time or brushing up on the basics.

What you’ll learn:

  • Fly rod and reel anatomy
  • Casting fundamentals and line management
  • Essential knots and fly selection
  • Gear selection tips and best practices

Free to attend. No experience required.
Perfect for beginners and anyone looking to refine the fundamentals.

Kodiak

Instructor: Brett Olson, Big Ray’s Pro Staffer
Time: 6PM-8PM
Location: Big Rays, 212 Lower Mill Bay Rd
Class size limit: 10 people

2026 Dates: 
May 8, May 29, June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21

What to expect:

  • In-store session covering knots, gear, and setup
  • On-site casting practice (rain or shine)
  • Fly rods and "parking lot fly lines" provided

What to bring:

  • Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
  • Eye protection (regular glasses or sunglasses)
  • Your own fly rod (optional)

Stop in to sign up or call the Kodiak store at 907-486-4276 to reserve your spot!

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