2024 Pricing
Holitna River
More Info
- Rates are based on 2-Person Minimum
- Lodging available in Bethel for a fee
- Rates may be subject to change due to unforeseen third-party adjustments
- PBA highly recommends trip insurance. Please click the "Book Now" link for more information
WEIGHT LIMITS: 1. Group weight = Weight of all people, gear, supplies and food
2. Maximum allowable weight:
• 2-3 People = 1200 lbs
• 4-6 People = 2400 lbs
• 7-9 People = 3600 lbs
3. Special Rates Available for Children under 16 depending on Group Size
If you’re looking to have long stretches of a river to yourself, the Holitna River is one of the most remote Southwest Alaska float trips.
Drop Off:
By Float Plane from Bethel to a location on the river near the headwaters
Length:
Approximately 85 river miles
Float Duration: Minimum 7 days. Average duration = 7-10 days
Topo Maps:
We do not provide Maps. Maps may be purchased through the nearest U.S. Geological Survey office or by calling Toll Free (888)275-8747(From Alaska Only) or (907)786-7011.
The following Map sheets are required for the Holitna River Float: Taylor Mts D-5, Sleetmute A-4, A-5, B-4, C-3
Pick Up:
Clients are picked up along the river approx. 15 miles above the confluence of the Holitna and Hoholitna rivers by floatplane and flown back to Bethel.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the commitment of safety to our clients, each group will be required to carry a satellite communication device (ie. Sat Phone, DeLorme, inReach, etc). If you are unable to bring your own device, Papa Bear will provide you with one for a fee.
The Holitna River is a large clearwater river that flows north from the Kuskokwim Mountains to the Kuskokwim River at the village of Sleetmute.
The river supports all five species of Pacific Salmon, along with great Char fishing, Grayling, Northern Pike and even Sheefish at times.
The fishing begins each year in early July with the King Salmon run, and culminates each year in mid-September with the Silver Salmon run. The Holitna is a lesser known river with little fishing pressure.
For those looking for an easy scenic float, with few if any other people and endless gravel bars for virtually unlimited camping opportunities, the Holitna River is the one to float. Very little technical skills needed for this float. Perfect for anyone looking for a long adventure, seclusion, wildlife, and a wide fish selection.
Holitna River History:
Native name published in 1829 as "Khulitna" by Lieutenant G. A. Sarichev, RN; spelled "Khulitnak" in 1842-44 by Lieutenant L. A. Zagoskin, Imperial Russian Navy (IRN), and "Holitnuk" on an 1898 fieldsheet by W. S. Post, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
