Kanektok River Camps
Alaska
Kanektok River Camps
Location: Alaska
Prices From
$4,800
The Duncans use jet sled to access the fishing grounds each day. Sometimes they will have anglers fish from the boats (they have set them up to be rowed), and sometimes they will beach the boats and have guests wade the shallower runs and riffles. The former is especially useful when targeting big rainbows in deep water, the latter when salmon fishing or fishing for trout behind spawning salmon.
Right after breakfast each day, guests will be split up two to a boat and guide and whisked off to the type of fishing they have requested. Due to the prolific and varied nature of the fishery, it is not unusual to be catching bright salmon all morning, then spend the afternoon catching trout, dollies and grayling. The guide will work with each angler, sharpening their skills and explaining the fishing, and will stay with them all day.
Dave Duncan and Sons actually have two camps on this remarkable river. Their Lower River Base Camp is a short, 30-minute run upstream from the little Native village of Quinhagak, and concentrates on the lower 15 miles of river.
While the salmon fishing is the largest draw at this camp due to its proximity to the ocean, there is also more than enough rainbow fishing to keep even the most enthusiastic trout angler happy. The Upper Base Camp is located approximately 30 miles and an hour and a half jet boat ride upriver, and is protected in a 2.2 million acre, federally established wilderness area. Access to the wilderness portion of the river is severely limited by government regulation, only a small group of anglers a week are allowed, and this is the only semi-permanent operation allowed.
The camp is in the center of the trout fishery and has immediate access to the desirable "braids" section, where you can lose yourself in the small, meandering back channels and tributaries. For those wanting to tangle with heavier game, simply walk over to the main channel, where the bulk of the salmon species are making their way upstream. If you like smaller water and more trout and dollies than you can imagine, this is the place for you.
Physically, the two camps are identical. They both feature comfortable Weatherport tents built onto solid wood, raised platforms, both guest quarters and a separate tent in which to take your meals. Well-designed outhouses round out the camps, both of which are located right on the water. Typical of most such camps, breakfasts and dinners are taken in camp, while lunches are typically served streamside.
Included in the package is transportation to and from camp from Quinhagak, meals (including beer and wine with dinners), sodas, lodging, and guiding services on the river.
On your day of arrival, plan on flying into Bethel on Alaska Air flight #43, departing Anchorage at about 11:53 am., arriving Bethel at about 1:08 pm.
Upon arrival in Bethel, give Grant Aviation a call (907) 543-2000, and they'll come pick you up and transfer you to their terminal (they may already be there waiting for you, but if not, they'll come right over upon receiving your call). They'll then fly you out to the village of Quinhagak, arriving about 40 minutes later.
The Camp will have already made the reservation for this Grant Air portion of your trip -- you'll just need to pay them for it when you arrive. The cost for the roundtrip flight (they also fly you from Quinhagak to Bethel at week's end) will be approximately $210.00, which you should be prepared to pay in cash.
Upon arrival in Quinhagak, you will be met by several camp representatives, who will transfer you and your luggage to awaiting jet boats and take you upriver to the camp you've chosen.
Weekly angling rates at Dave Duncan and Sons River Camps from $4800/person for the Lower Camp and $4900/person for the Upper Camp. Prices subject to change without notice.
A 50 percent deposit is due to secure a reservation.
Travel insurance can provide a means of recourse against non-refundable financial losses and warrants your careful review and consideration.
