Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about your upcoming Alaskan adventure? You're not alone! Here are some of the most common things folks ask us. If you don't see your question answered here, don't hesitate to reach out directly.

Q: How far in advance should I book my trip with Alaska Rainbow Adventures?

A: You know, we have a limited number of trips each season, and the prime dates, especially, fill up really fast. To make sure you secure your preferred dates, we highly recommend booking as early as possible – sometimes even a year or more in advance!

Q: What's typically included in the price of my trip?

A: We take care of a lot to make your adventure seamless! Your trip typically includes those scenic floatplane flights to and from the river, all your delicious meals and limited snacks, plus non-alcoholic drinks such as Tang. We also provide really comfortable camping gear – think roomy Alaska-made tents for two with cots and chairs – and, of course, expert guidance and fishing instruction. We can often lend you rods and reels if you need them too; just let us know when you book.

Q: What costs are NOT included, or what should I plan to budget for?

A: Good question! You'll need to handle your commercial flights to Anchorage and then to your smaller hub city like Bethel, King Salmon, or Dillingham. Guide gratuities are not included, nor is your personal fishing gear like waders, boots, or your full fly/lure selection (though we provide a limited selection of flies, and a detailed packing list). Your fishing license is also your responsibility. If you'd like alcoholic beverages we can point you toward a "bush order" provider, but remember it must fit into your weight allowance.

Q: What's the weight limit for my gear, and why is it so important?

A: This is a big one for remote Alaska! We shoot for a maximum of 250 pounds per person or less, which includes both you, your gear and beer. Or, to put it another way, your personal gear should be 50 pounds or less, whichever keeps the total down. The reason is simple: those small planes have strict weight capacities, and we need to fit everyone and everything safely. If you are over the limit we will try and accommodate you if it fits within the total allowance of aircraft for the trip. If you are over the limit, any additional cost is on you, or you might need to leave some non-essentials behind. So, pack smart!

Q: What kind of clothing should I bring for an Alaskan trip?

A: Alaska's weather can change in a heartbeat, so a layered approach is absolutely key. Think modern, lightweight synthetic fabrics that wick moisture – no cotton for fishing or around camp, because if it gets wet, it stays wet! We'll provide a detailed packing list upon booking, but generally, be ready for anything from crisp mornings to mild, sunny afternoons, and be prepared for rain.

Q: Do I need to bring my own fishing gear (rods, reels, flies, etc.)?

A: We provide a limited selection of effective flies, and we can often lend you rods and reels. However, many anglers prefer to bring their own favorite setups. We'll send you a detailed packing list upon booking that includes specific recommendations for fishing gear, waders, and other personal tackle. Just remember, no felt-sole wading boots (they're not allowed in Alaska anymore!) or wading studs.

Q: What is a typical day like on a float trip with Alaska Rainbow Adventures?

A: Imagine waking up in a comfortable wilderness camp, enjoying a hearty breakfast, then heading out on the river with your guide for a full day of fishing as we float downstream. Most evening brings us to a new, beautiful campsite, where we'll work together to set up camp, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your guide, and unwind around the fire under the vast Alaskan sky. It's a wonderful rhythm of adventure and relaxation!

Q: What's the difference between your Standard Deluxe, Fisherman's Deluxe, and Intimate Rivers trips?

A: Great question! Our Standard Deluxe is our most common trip, offering fantastic camping amenities with a little guest participation in camp setup. Our Fisherman's Deluxe (available on specific rivers at additional cost) is our top-tier option, where a separate gear boat and camp assistant set up camp for you before you even arrive, maximizing your fishing and relaxation time. Our Intimate Rivers trips use smaller rafts, focusing on the raw beauty and incredible fishing of wilder, less-traveled waters.

Q: What are the sleeping arrangements like in camp?

A: You'll be sleeping in spacious, high-quality Alaska-made tents set up for double occupancy, giving you plenty of room for your gear. Inside, we provide comfortable cots and sleeping pads. You'll just need to bring your own sleeping bag, or you can opt to rent one of ours (with a fresh liner, for a small cleaning fee).

Q: What kind of food can I expect on the trip?

A: Expect delicious, hearty, and wholesome meals prepared by your guides – and trust me, they're pretty good at it! We aim to provide substantial breakfasts to fuel your mornings, satisfying lunches often enjoyed right on the river, and fantastic dinners under the Alaskan sky, sometimes even featuring fresh-caught fish from the day's angling. We'll make sure you're well-fed!

Q: How do you handle safety on your trips?

A: Safety is our absolute highest priority. We have over 30 years of experience, and our professional guides are all CPR and first aid certified, with extensive knowledge of Alaskan rivers and wildlife. We use top-of-the-line equipment, provide thorough safety briefings, and carry satellite communication devices for emergencies. We also take a common-sense approach, avoiding dangerous conditions and ensuring guests are always aware and cautious.

Q: Do I need travel insurance, and what is Global Rescue?

A: Through our many decades of experience, we've learned countless lessons, and one stands out: we truly strongly recommend that all our guests purchase some form of trip and travel insurance. While you might not need it, the peace of mind that comes with being prepared far outweighs the potential stress if something unexpected comes up and you suddenly find you do. We partner with Global Rescue, a world leader in medical and security advisory and evacuation services. An emergency evacuation can cost over $100,000 without it. We highly recommend enrolling with them for that crucial peace of mind, and we can provide you with direct links and contact information for their services.

Q: What are the physical demands of your trips?

A: While we cater to various skill levels, some of our trips can be physically demanding, involving wading in rivers and helping with camp setup. Being in good physical shape beforehand will definitely enhance your enjoyment and comfort throughout the trip.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see on the trip?

A: You're in for a treat! Depending on the river, you'll likely see iconic Alaskan wildlife like brown bears (often fishing for salmon!), majestic eagles, various hawks and seabirds, loons, and in the evenings, you might even hear the calls of wolves and owls. Our guides are experts in wildlife viewing and safety.

Q: Can I use my cell phone or get internet access on the river?

A: No, you won't have cell service or internet access out on the river. This is true wilderness, and we like it that way! Our guides carry satellite communication devices, but those are strictly for necessary business communication and emergency purposes. You're certainly welcome to bring your own for personal communication – we often suggest Garmin inReach devices for their satellite texting capability. But honestly, wouldn't you rather completely disconnect and truly immerse yourself in the Alaskan experience?

Be sure to look in the "Additional Info" section of the website for... You guessed it, additional information!