Why a float trip with us
Well for one the fishing is better on a Alaska Rainbow Adventures wilderness float trip because we are on the rivers at the peak of the salmon runs or during times when availability is highest for native species like the rainbow trout for which our trips are famous.
Of course we also offer trips targeting other species such as dolly varden / arctic char, sheefish, pike and grayling. Or it might be because our staff of Alaskan guides actually reside and earn their living here and bring to the river that unique local knowledge of fishing Alaska you can only get as a resident of the 49th state. With us you also have increased time on the water after all you couldn't be any closer to the fishing as we camp right on the river at the best available fishing holes.
When To Fish Alaska
The species you want to fish for and when you can make it to Alaska has allot to do with the selection of the water that is right for you and your fishing partners as you travel to Alaska.
If you are able to travel at any time select the species and type of experience that interests you and any fishing partners that might be traveling with you, then give us a call we will help you choose the trip that best suits your expectations.
Where We Offer Float Trips
Many of Alaska Rainbow Adventure's trips are in the world famous fisheries of the Bristol bay region of Alaska, but there are other waters we take you too as well.
Bristol Bay of course is home to the world's largest sockeye salmon run where millions return each year, and some of the greatest freshwater fly fishing to be found on the planet. On rivers such as the Alagnak, Togiak, Nushagak, as well as American and Moraine Creeks. In other watersheds the Aniak, Koktuli, Stuyahok and Chilikadrotna in the Nushagak and Kuskokwim river drainages Closer to Anchorage we offer trips on Lake creek and Alaska's first Blue Ribbon Trout Stream the Talachulitna River.
Travel Information
Due to the distance traveled and time zone changes, most of our guests will have two flight segments:
One from your hometown to Anchorage and a second segment from Anchorage to King Salmon, Dillingham, Iliamna or other starting point for your particular trip. For some of you that may mean an overnight in Anchorage and for others an overnight in the town where your trip starts.
A complete pre-trip package will be provided to persons booking trips with additional specific information on travel, hotel and packing information based on the trip you are taking. If you need additional information right now please call or email us.
Accommodations While On The River
We use quality equipment proven for use in Alaska's wilderness
On our "deluxe" trips we utilize what are often called six person tents for two people each equipped with cots and sleeping pads and with ceilings that allow most folks to stand easily. On our "intimate" rivers trips somewhat smaller tents are utilized to reduce weight as necessary for travel to smaller rivers and waters around Alaska.
Group Size On Your Trip
Small group size is an important part of our philosophy at Alaska Rainbow Adventures
By limiting our trips to no more then six anglers*, we are able to provide a personal, high quality wilderness experience. We usually operate with a three to one guest / guide ratio and operating two rafts per trip, on some trips the ratio ends up being less but never more.
Meals ~ The River Gourmet
Meals are served home style and offer generous portions of traditional entrees prepared with choice cuts of meat and fresh fish.
These come with all the trimmings and dessert. At midday, a hearty lunch is prepared on the bank, and should you need an extra bit of energy to help you land that big one, snacks of fresh fruit and cookies are available.
River Travel ~ How We Get You Down The River
On our deluxe trips state of the art 18' catarafts or 16' self bailing rafts
Our intimate rivers trips use somewhat smaller rafts to safely get you down the river, all of these craft are built by the largest producer of whitewater rafts in America. Each raft is equipped with a custom rowing frame, and for angler comfort, padded high back seats.
A Day On The River ~ Sample Daily Routine
Your wake-up call every morning is about 7:30 am with hot coffee or favorite beverage brewing and breakfast soon follows.
After we eat, you will have time to go back to your tent to pack up your personal gear, fold up your, cot, sleeping pad and tent and take your gear down to the rafts unless it is a no travel day then you just go fishing!
The rafts are then loaded and we start floating around 9:30 am. We spend the morning float/fishing until lunchtime which we have streamside. After lunch, we continue float/fishing to our evening campsite arriving about 5:30 pm sometimes a bit later depending on who we had to drag out of that last hot run on the river.
Meet The Fish ~ Salmon ~ Char & Trout ~ Oh MY!
Five species of Pacific salmon, Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char, Dolly Varden, Grayling, Pike, sheefish and more.
This section has a bit of information about Alaska's more popular sport fish species.
Fly Fishing Or Spin Fishing ~ About Tackle
Both fly and spin equipment are appropriate for the rivers we float, either method can be very successful. We welcome non-fly fishing anglers on our trips and offer basic fly fishing instruction and equipment to those interested in learning more.
Taking Fish Home ~ Catch & Release
During your adventure A.R.A. policy is to release all species unharmed, except for the occasional salmon destined for the dinner table. If you are looking to take home a salmon or two, we ask that this be done on the last day of the trip as cooler space is limited.
To reduce fish mortality, anglers need to handle fish carefully and quickly, cradle it gently keeping the fish horizontal in two hands. Please do not at any time squeeze the fish as vital organs can be easily injured especially in the throat or stomach regions. When removing the hook from a fish if you hold it upside down you may find this often causes a calming effect and allows for easier hook removal, but again please do not squeeze the fish. Keep hands and fingers away from the gills and the eyes. Grasp the trout gently and return it carefully into quiet waters when releasing it. If you are going to photograph your trophy , have someone ready with the camera and do it quickly. Keep the fish in the water until you’re ready for the shot and only lift it just out of the water not several feet high where it can be injured when you loose your grip on it and the fish falls to the stream bed. Return the trout quickly to the stream. Always use barb-less hooks not only does this make it easier to remove the hook from a fish but it also comes out of an impaled fisherman with significantly less pain and effort. Trust us on this we have seen enough anglers hooked by flies that were not de-barbed. Revive the fish by gently holding it under water, by the tail with one hand and supporting the underbelly with the other. Face the fish into the current and gently move it back and forth and it may take awhile so please exercise some patience or ask your guide for assistance.
Weather In Alaska
Early June can be a surprising time in the Bristol Bay region normal daytime temperatures range from low 40's on a cloudy/ rainy day to mid 60's on a sunny day.
Nights are variable, with some dropping into the mid 30's, especially at elevation In July we usually sees nice summer weather in July as the water clears and water drops to normal summer flows. Fall brings mild weather, but don't be fooled. Count on stormy periods with rain, wind, and cool temperatures, especially near the end of August and early September.
Nighttime temperatures can drop to 32 degrees F. or below by mid-September. By late September chilly nighttime temperatures are offset by the fine, sunny days, and early fall anglers often agree that there's no better time to be in Bristol Bay. Be sure to come prepared with top-quality rain gear note storms or extended rainy periods may cause river levels to change rapidly.
Early October brings increasingly colder temperatures, often combined with strong winds, foggy periods, and rain and possibly even snow. All said however there are many fine sunny days through the season that are all that more special to anglers that fish Alaska in the fall.
Terms, Conditions & Risks
All guests must read and return to us a signed copy of our terms and conditions & liability waivers in order to participate on their trip. We also strongly recommend trip and travel insurance ~ talk to your favorite travel agent to purchase.
Trip Schedules ~ Custom Dates
Most ‘scheduled’ trips for 2010 run Tuesday to Mondays beginning June 8th when the season opens in the Bristol Bay Drainages for rainbow trout fishing, however this is subject to change as trips are booked and the 'actual schedule of trips' evolves each season.
Yes there is a reason we start and end our trips mid week it gives everyone a better Alaskan experience as most operations around the state changeover on or near the weekend. If you are interested in other dates please call us toll free and we will be happy to schedule a trip on the dates you desire if we have the resources available. Please Note All of our trips are booked on a first come, first served basis. All dates are subject to prior booking. Unless you have called, reserved them, and followed up with a deposit they may be gone.
Rates
Rates run from 1895.00pp to 4995.00pp depending on the river and and the length of trip chosen. Please call for details about specific rates on the waters that most interest you, or if you would like to discuss trip options based on your desires.
The addition of at least one day is recommended but not required for trips starting after September 1st due to the shorter amount of daylight available this time of the year as it can cut into the amount of fishing time. Extra days run 275.00 per angler
For groups who want a two to one guest/guide ratio (Since we will have an extra set of hands this allows us to set up camp as well) the rate for the extra guide is 450.00 per person on 6 person trips originating in King Salmon or Iliamna. Sorry this option is not available on Togiak River trips.
While we limit our trips to six guests at a time in mixed groups, we do offer custom trips and dates for larger groups traveling together. Groups smaller then 6 persons wishing to remain private there is a 30% of trip price additional fee, otherwise we reserve the right to fill any trip with up to six guests unless you have paid for private status.
Fishing License ~ Buy One Online
You’ll need to purchase an Alaska fishing license to cover the number of days you’ll be fishing.
You can purchase them on-line just click on the link below, Don’t forget, if you are fishing for King Salmon, you will also need to purchase a king stamp. The face of the stamp must be signed, in ink, and stuck onto the back of your current year’s sport fishing license. Note: The link below will take you away from our site.
Alaska Fish & Game ~ Fishing Regulations
Below these are links to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game web site and the regulation pages that deal with each specific area that we operate in.
- Bristol Bay Sport Fishing Regulations - Alagnak, Togiak & Nushagak Rivers ~ American, Moraine & Funnel Creeks, Chilikadrotna, Stuyahok & Koktuli rivers
- Susitna Drainage - Talachulitna River, Lake Creek and Alces Creeks
- Kuskokwim-Goodnews Drainages - Aniak, Kisariluk Kwethluk & Goodnews Rivers
Packing List ~ Do I really Need All This?
Packing for Alaska can be a challenge, with travel in small aircraft an important part of many trips to remote areas of the state as well as the weather what and how much to pack becomes a concern. Here you will find some suggestions of items to bring on your Alaskan adventure.
Emergency Contact Information
There currently is no cell phone service to most of the areas we operate flost trips on.
In an emergency we carry aviation VHF radios or satellite telephones to make contact with the outside world if necessary. The satellite phone is not available for personal phone calls while on the trip If necessary you may rent a satellite phone but then is not the purpose of an wilderness Alaska float trip to get away?
Travel Insurance
We recommend travel insurance, there are many companies available that offer this type of product online or contact your travel agent.
Future FAQ
For Future Use - Check Back