2025 Pricing
Kanektok River
More Info
- PBA coordinates boat, wheeled charter, and village transportation
- 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
The Kanektok River flows west from Pegati Lake through the foothills of the Akhlun Mountains. The upper portion of the Kanektok River provides spectacular scenery and is the habitat for Dolly Varden and Grayling. The middle portion of the river becomes more braided, and that’s when the Rainbow fishing really picks up. In the lower portion, the river flows out of the hills into the tundra-filled lowlands. The Kanektok River is a very popular float offering good camping, great scenery and most of all, incredible fishing opportunities.
Drop Off:
By Float Plane from Bethel to Pegati Lake
Length:
Approximately 100 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 1-888-275-8747 (outside Alaska) or (907)-786-7011. The following map sheets are required for the Kanektok River Float: Goodnews Bay C-5, C-6, D-3, D-4, D-5, D-6, D-7, D-8.
Pick Up:
Clients are picked up at the airstrip in the village of Quinhagak by wheeled aircraft 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 fishing begins on the Kanektok River each year in late June with the King Salmon run, and culminates each year in mid-September with the Rainbow fishing reaching its peak and the end of the Silver Salmon run. In addition to the Rainbow Trout and Salmon fishing, the Kanektok River also offers great Dolly Varden and Grayling fishing.
Kanektok River History:
The name Kagati Lake, the source for the Kanektok River, comes from the Yup’ik word for “source,” according to records from the 1898 USGS expedition by J.E. Spurr and W.S. Post. Kagati Lake and its western arm, Pegati Lake, are situated in a glacial valley between the Eek and the Ahklun Mountains. Both lakes empty into the Kanektok River from the northern end of Pegati Lake. The name Pegati is a Yup’ik place name that was also first reported in 1898. Its meaning is not currently known. In the past, both lakes were often viewed as one large lake called Kagati, Kanektok or Quinhagak Lake. The lakes are fed by at least three tributaries. The primary tributaries are Atmugiak and Aukamunuk creeks that flow into the eastern shore of Kagati Lake.
