Chuck Keim

Meet the man who's name is synonymous with coastal brown bear viewing. Many prominent wildlife photographers and film makers would say this man was instrumental in bringing the opportunity to photograph the Alaskan brown bear professionally to the rest of the world. Without Chuck's initiative and skill we would not know the ease of getting back into the bush and the magical ability he has of close proximity to the wildlife.

Chuck has a keen sense of perception and a love for nature while respecting all wildlife. It is easy to see when being guided, Chuck has immersed himself into a growing business that brings many wonderful memories to those who travel with him aboard the Coastal Explorer.

Chuck Keim is a true man of the outdoors: rugged and extremely knowledgeable about wildlife, weather patterns, and life at sea.  His 13+ years of hands-on experience as a guide will ensure guests to enjoy safe, world-class Brown Bear viewing.  Not only can he read a bear’s body language the way we would read a newspaper, but he is also a seasoned nature photographer as well.    

Originally from Colorado, Keim moved to Alaska and spent most of his early years at sea as a commercial fisherman.  He decided to make Old Harbor, Alaska his permanent home and has continued on the ocean as a private guide to the Alaskan Peninsula.

Keim is the most well known Brown Bear guide in this region of Alaska.  He has guided many of the world’s top nature photographers, television camera crews, and biologists.  In fact, the majority of these people are repeat clients.  Chuck works hard to ensure that his guest photographers have access to the best angles and close proximity to the bears while also remaining safe and stable. 

Keim specializes in guiding professional photographers throughout the remote bear-filled bays of the Alaskan Penisula.  However, he also welcomes amateurs and non-photographers too. 

Olga:  First Mate, Director and Coordinator

Olga, a retired school teacher and mother of five hails from Kodiak Island, Alaska. She is Chuck's first mate and works as a bear guide and travel agent for Coastal Outfitters. Olga oversees the guests and schedule for each travel season.  Born and raised a true native of Alaska, Olga has been around Brown Bears and other wildlife her entire life.  She is very knowledgeable in the field and assists Chuck to ensure that each and every group enjoys safe and productive bear viewing.  Olga is also an experienced photographer who captures awe-inspiring, Alaskan images regularly and is in the process of producing books, cards and gift items of her talents.