Travel Guide
Everything You Need to Know
Alaska Rainbow Adventures
Welcome to Your Alaska Adventure
Your Journey to Southwest Alaska's Premier Waters Begins Here
Planning a wilderness float fishing trip to remote Alaska requires thoughtful preparation, but the reward is an unforgettable experience in one of Earth's last truly wild places. This comprehensive travel guide will walk you through every step of your journey, from booking your commercial flights to packing the right gear for success on the water.
Our trips operate from hub communities accessible only by air, where floatplanes transport you to exclusive rivers within the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge. With over thirty years of experience, we've refined every detail to ensure your travel logistics are smooth, leaving you free to focus on the adventure ahead.
This guide covers everything from flight schedules and accommodations to weight restrictions and gear requirements. We've included specific information about each departure hub, packing recommendations based on decades of experience, and important reminders about insurance, licenses, and logistics.
Whether you're joining us on the legendary Kanektok, the family-friendly Goodnews, or one of our other premier rivers, understanding these travel details will help you arrive prepared, confident, and ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime.
Getting to Alaska
Your Journey Begins with Commercial Air Travel
Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC) is Alaska's primary gateway and the starting point for nearly all our guests. This major international airport is served by multiple carriers including Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, and several others with direct flights from Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, Denver, Chicago, and many other major U.S. cities.
Most guests arrive in Anchorage at least one day before their connecting flight to the bush hub city. This buffer is highly recommended as it protects against delays and allows time to purchase any last-minute items or Alaska fishing licenses.
From Anchorage, you'll take a connecting flight to one of three hub communities, depending on which river you'll be fishing. These flights are operated by Alaska Airlines and typically run multiple times daily:
| Hub City | Distance from ANC | Rivers Served | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bethel (BET) | 400 air miles west | Goodnews, Arolik, Kanektok | ~1 hour |
| King Salmon (AKN) | 290 air miles southwest | Alagnak, Moraine Creek | ~1 hour |
| Dillingham (DLG) | 327 air miles southwest | Togiak | ~1 hour |
Arrive the evening before your trip start date: Plan to arrive at your hub city (Bethel, King Salmon, or Dillingham) the evening before your trip begins. This is essential as weather can cause delays, and you'll need to be ready for a morning departure to the river.
Departure scheduling: We strongly recommend booking your return flight from the hub city for the evening of your trip's end date, OR better yet, schedule it for the following day. This buffer protects you from weather delays, which are common in Alaska bush flying and beyond anyone's control.
Alaska Airlines schedules: Check current flight times at alaskaair.com. Morning, afternoon, and evening flights are typically available, but schedules can change seasonally.
Hub City Information
Departure Points for Different Rivers
Share pre-trip information with all party members to ensure preparation and understanding of cancellation/refund policies. If you do not provide this information to all group members, Alaska Rainbow Adventures cannot be held financially responsible for any resulting consequences.
Bethel Hub
Primary Departure Point for Goodnews, Kanektok & Arolik Rivers
Bethel is a Yup'ik community of approximately 6,400 residents located on the Kuskokwim River, 40 miles from the Bering Sea. As the largest rural community in Alaska and the commercial hub for 56 surrounding villages, Bethel serves as the gateway to Western Alaska's premier fishing waters.
The community is 400 air miles west of Anchorage and accessible only by air or barge. Traditional Yup'ik practices and language remain predominant in the area, and the town serves as a cultural and commercial center for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region.
Hackney's Bed & Breakfast
Our Preferred Lodging Partner
Phone: 907-545-2598
Email: info@akrainbow.com
Hackney's offers comfortable accommodations specifically geared toward visiting anglers. They understand the unique needs of fishing guests and provide convenient airport pickup arrangements.
What to Expect: Plan for at least one night before your trip begins. Most guests also coordinate with Hackney's for return-day accommodations to shower and freshen up before flying home, or book a second night if departing the following morning.
Tip: Discuss your return flight timing with Hackney's when booking - they can arrange day-use or evening accommodations if you're flying out the same day you return from the river.
Renfro's Alaskan Adventures
Our Primary Air Taxi Service
Phone: 907-543-2261
Services Provided:
- Airport pickup upon arrival in Bethel
- Transportation to B&B
- Morning pickup for river flight
- Floatplane service to the river
- Drop-off location upon return to Bethel
Contact Renfro's directly regarding timing for your morning flight to the river. They'll coordinate with our guides to ensure seamless logistics.
Note: Your return flight to Bethel will be with a different air service, but you'll be dropped off at Renfro's hangar to collect any gear you stored. Most guests opt to return to the B&B for showers and then shuttle to the airport for their flights.
Bethel is a "dry" community with no liquor stores. If you wish to bring alcoholic beverages on your trip, you must arrange this in advance through a "Bush Order" service from Anchorage.
Bush Order Services: Search online for "bush orders for alcohol in Anchorage" to find services that will deliver your order to either:
- Your B&B in Bethel
- Renfro's Air Service in Bethel
Critical Reminder: Whatever you bring counts toward your weight limit of 50 pounds of gear per person. Plan accordingly!
Morning of Trip Start: Renfro's will pick you up from your B&B for your floatplane flight to the river. In most cases our guides will have preceded you to the river and will meet you at the put-in location. Flight time varies by river but typically ranges from 45-90 minutes.
Gear Storage: Any items you don't need on the river (extra luggage, street clothes, etc.) can be stored at Renfro's hangar or our on site storage container during your trip.
Return to Bethel: On the final day of your trip, we depart the village of Goodnews Bay (or respective river endpoint) around 2:00 PM via wheel plane for the return flight to Bethel. You'll be dropped off at Renfro's hangar where you can collect any stored gear.
Post-Trip Options: Most guests return to the B&B for showers and to freshen up after a week on the river, then arrange shuttle service to the airport for their return flights. This is highly recommended if you have an evening flight with a few hours to spare.
Weather Considerations: Bush flying is entirely weather-dependent. Delays can and do occur. This is why we strongly recommend booking your return commercial flight for either the evening of your end date (with flexibility) or the following morning.
King Salmon Hub
Departure Point for Alagnak River & Moraine Creek Trips
King Salmon is located in the heart of Bristol Bay, approximately 290 air miles southwest of Anchorage. This community serves as the primary gateway to Katmai National Park and the world-famous Alagnak River system. The town exists primarily to support the commercial fishing industry and sport fishing tourism.
King Salmon is accessible via daily Alaska Airlines flights from Anchorage, with additional service available through Katmai Air and Aleutian Airways.
Antlers Inn and Sockeye Cabins
Quality Lodging for Anglers
🌐 Website: antlersinnalaska.com
Phone: Office: 907-246-8525 or Toll Free: 888-735-8525
Phone: Reservations (Rachael): 208-569-7482
Rachael works remotely, so if she doesn't answer, please leave a voicemail or text message and she will get back to you as quickly as possible. For same-day changes to your reservation, call the office directly.
Bear Trail Cabins
Alternative Lodging Option
🌐 Website: beartrailcabinsalaska.com
Phone: 801-851-0797 or 907-246-3011
Branch River Air Service
Primary Air Taxi for Alagnak/Moraine Trips
Phone: 907-246-3437
Services Provided:
- Airport pickup upon arrival
- Transportation to lodging
- Floatplane service to the river
- Return flight to King Salmon
Your B&B or Branch River Air will coordinate airport pickup. Contact them regarding timing for your morning flight to the river.
Arrival: We ask guests to arrive in King Salmon the day prior to the start of your trip and overnight in King Salmon to ensure you and all your gear arrive in a timely manner. This buffer protects against commercial flight delays and gives you time to organize your equipment.
Morning Departure: Branch River Air (or your B&B) will pick you up for your floatplane flight to the Alagnak River or Moraine Creek. Our guides will have preceded you to the river.
Return to King Salmon: We usually arrive back into King Salmon around 3:00 PM on the last day of your trip via floatplane.
Departure Planning: Please schedule your return flights accordingly, but remember that weather can change arrival times as it affects floatplane operations. We recommend booking your Alaska Airlines return flight for either late afternoon/evening of your end date OR the following morning to allow for weather-related delays.
King Salmon is subject to the same weather-dependent flying conditions as Bethel. Dense fog, high winds, and storms can delay floatplane operations. Always build flexibility into your schedule, and consider overnight accommodations for your return day if you have flexibility in your travel plans.
Luggage & Weight Restrictions
Essential Information for Bush Plane Travel
Small bush planes are fantastic for reaching remote rivers, but space and weight are absolutely critical. The aircraft we use typically have a total capacity of approximately 1,200 pounds, which must accommodate passengers, gear, fuel reserves, and supplies.
The Golden Rule: 250 Pounds Total Per Person
This means your body weight PLUS your gear should equal 250 pounds or less. Put another way:
- If you weigh 200 pounds, your gear limit is 50 pounds
- If you weigh 180 pounds, your gear limit is 70 pounds
- If you weigh 220 pounds, your gear limit is 30 pounds
OR: 50 Pounds of Gear (Whichever Keeps Total Under 250 lbs)
Most guests aim for 50 pounds of gear or less, which works well for the majority of travelers. This weight limit is set because we need to fit you, your gear, and three other passengers with their loads into the aircraft's capacity.
We will always do our best to accommodate your gear if your items go over the limit and still fit within the plane's overall weight allowance, however if not, any additional charter cost is your responsibility. In some cases, non-essential items may need to be left behind.
Pro Tip: Weigh your packed bags at home before traveling. A standard luggage scale can save you stress and surprises at the departure point.
You don't need to bring everything to the river! Items you won't need during your float trip can be stored at Renfro's hangar or in our onsite storage container during your adventure.
What to Store:
- Extra luggage or duffel bags
- Street clothes for travel home
- Dress shoes or non-camp footwear
- Electronics you won't use on the river
- Any other non-essential items
You'll collect your stored items when you return to Bethel at the end of your trip. This allows you to pack light for the river while still having fresh clothes and toiletries for your journey home.
Use Soft-Sided Luggage: Duffel bags, soft backpacks, and compressible bags work far better than hard-sided suitcases in small aircraft and rafts. They're easier to stuff into tight spaces and won't damage equipment.
Two-Bag System: Many guests use one larger duffel (40-45 lbs) for clothing and camping gear, plus a smaller day pack or rod tube bag (5-10 lbs) for fishing equipment and personal items.
Rod Tubes: Hard rod tubes are fine for commercial flights but consider soft rod sleeves or travel rods that break down smaller for bush planes. Four-piece rods in soft cases save significant space.
Bring What You Need, Leave What You Don't
Essential Items:
- Quality rain gear (jacket & pants)
- Chest waders & wading shoes
- Warm layering system
- Sleeping bag (or rent in Bethel)
- Personal medications
- Fishing tackle & flies
Leave Behind:
- Extra shoes beyond wading boots + camp boots
- Cotton clothing (jeans, cotton t-shirts)
- Excessive changes of clothes
- Heavy books or unnecessary electronics
Essential Gear & Equipment
What to Bring for Alaska Float Fishing
Fly Rods:
- Minimum 6-weight, 9 feet long
- 7-8 weight rods are ideal for most situations
- 9-weight for King salmon or big silvers
- Bring at least two rods (backup is essential)
Reels & Lines:
- Floating lines for most fishing
- Sink-tip or full-sink lines useful
- Spare spools with backing
- 200+ yards of backing for salmon
Leaders & Tippet:
- 0X-3X for salmon
- 3X-5X for trout & char
- Bring plenty - you'll go through it
Flies & Tackle:
Chances are, you won't need more than a few flies on your trip. We've put together a small but thoughtful collection—Dalli Lama black and white, orange gurglers, mouse patterns, beads, and a few flesh flies—that should cover most situations. That said, some anglers like to bring plenty more, and if you've got a pattern you believe in, bring it. Fish tend to reward confidence.
Tools & Accessories:
- Pliers (NOT hemostats) - essential for heavy hooks
- Line nippers/scissors
- Hook sharpener
- Split shot & strike indicators
- Spare rod tips
- Waterproof fly boxes
Base Layers (Essential):
- 2 sets quality poly-pro or Capilene thermal underwear
- For late August/September: heavy expedition weight
- NO COTTON - it stays wet and cold
Mid Layers:
- Chamois or wool shirts (2-3)
- Fleece jacket or vest
- Synthetic insulated jacket
- Windproof fleece pants & jacket
Outer Layer (Critical):
- Quality rain gear is NON-NEGOTIABLE
- Rain jacket AND rain pants
- Heavy rubberized canvas over chest waders = driest combo
- Don't skimp - you'll be glad you brought the best
Waders & Boots:
- Chest waders (breathable recommended)
- Wading shoes (NO FELT SOLES - illegal in Alaska since 2012)
- NO STUDS - they damage our rafts
- Fleece or thermal underwear underneath waders
Camp Footwear:
- Waterproof camp shoes or knee boots
- LL Bean Maine hunting shoes work perfectly
- Warm socks for camp (wool or synthetic)
Accessories:
- Warm hat (wool or fleece)
- Sun hat with brim
- Gloves (fingerless fishing gloves + warm backup)
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Sunglasses (polarized essential)
- Spare glasses if you wear them
Sleeping Bag: Quality synthetic bag rated 20°F minimum (NOT down - loses warmth when wet). For September trips, bring 5°F bag or liner. We can rent sleeping bags in Bethel: 20-degree or 0-degree bags with fresh, washed liners.
Personal Items: Headlamp with spare batteries, personal toiletries, towel (quick-dry recommended), sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm with SPF, insect repellent, personal medications, small first aid kit, camera & extra batteries/cards.
- Firearms or bear spray: Our guides are armed and our camp system is designed for bear safety
- Felt-sole wading boots: Illegal in Alaska since January 1, 2012
- Wading boots with studs or cleats: Damage our rafts
- Cotton clothing: T-shirts, jeans, cotton socks - they absorb water and stay wet
- Fly rods under 6-weight or under 9 feet: Not ideal for these waters
- Hemostats: Bring pliers instead - much better for heavy hooks and big fish
Important: Don't plan to quit smoking on your trip! Bring what you need.
Alaska Fishing License
Required Before Your Trip Begins
Who Needs a License: All residents age 18 or older, and nonresidents age 16 or older must purchase and possess a sport fishing license to participate in Alaska sport and personal use fisheries.
2025 License Costs (Nonresident):
| License Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Sport Fishing | Calendar year | $145 |
| King Salmon Stamp | When targeting Chinook | $100 |
King Salmon Stamp: If you are fishing for Chinook (King) Salmon when available, you MUST purchase a King Stamp. The face of that stamp must be signed in ink and affixed to the back of your current year's sport fishing license.
Online Purchase (Recommended): Visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website to purchase your license online. This can be done from home before your trip.
🌐 adfg.alaska.gov
Print Your License: After purchase, print your license and bring it with you. Some guests also save a digital copy on their phone as backup.
When to Purchase: Buy your license at least a week before your trip to avoid last-minute complications. You can purchase it months in advance - it's valid for the calendar year.
You are responsible for purchasing your fishing license before your trip and having it on your person at all times while fishing.
If you do not have your fishing license, you will not be able to fish. We operate in remote locations far from usual supply sources and cannot provide licenses.
Travel & Medical Insurance
Essential Protection for Remote Alaska Adventures
Through our many decades of operating in remote Alaska, we've learned countless lessons, and one stands above all others: trip and travel insurance is absolutely essential.
Operating in the Alaskan wilderness comes with inherent challenges:
- Weather delays: Bush flights are entirely weather-dependent and delays are common
- Medical emergencies: We're hours from medical facilities by air
- Emergency evacuation: Can cost over $100,000 without insurance
- Trip cancellation: Life happens - illness, family emergencies, work conflicts
- Travel interruption: Flights get cancelled, connections get missed
Our Policy: While you might not need it, the peace of mind that comes with being prepared far outweighs the potential stress if something unexpected occurs. Travel insurance is now REQUIRED for all Alaska Rainbow Adventures trips.
We partner with Global Rescue, a world leader in medical and security advisory and evacuation services specifically designed for travelers in remote locations.
What Global Rescue Provides:
- Emergency medical evacuation from anywhere
- 24/7/365 operations center
- Expert field rescue teams
- Transportation to hospital of choice
- No caps on evacuation costs
- Covers pre-existing conditions
Cost Context: An emergency helicopter evacuation from the Bristol Bay region can easily exceed $100,000. Global Rescue membership covers this entirely.
We can provide you with direct links and contact information for Global Rescue services upon booking.
In addition to medical evacuation coverage, we strongly recommend comprehensive trip cancellation and interruption insurance.
What This Covers:
- Trip cancellation for covered reasons
- Trip interruption if you must leave early
- Travel delays and missed connections
- Lost or delayed baggage
- Weather-related cancellations
Important Note: You may need to purchase trip insurance within 14-21 days of making your initial deposit for the most comprehensive coverage, including pre-existing condition waivers. Check with your supplier for the details.
Recommended Providers:
- Global Rescue (medical evacuation)
- Travel Guard
- Allianz Travel Insurance
- InsureMyTrip.com (comparison site)
All payments are non-refundable: Deposits and final payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is why insurance is so important.
Weather cancellations: If Alaska Rainbow Adventures cancels for reasons within our control, we will reschedule you for the next available date that works for you. There will be no refunds for canceled trips for any reason.
Your insurance is your protection against unexpected circumstances that prevent you from joining your trip or require early departure.
On the River: Important Guidelines
Wilderness Ethics, Safety & Daily Routine
The TNWR is a unique area that offers some of the best fishing and wilderness opportunities available today. It was established to conserve fish and wildlife populations and habitats in their natural diversity, fulfill the international treaty obligations of the United States concerning fish and wildlife and their habitats, ensure the opportunity for continued subsistence uses by residents, and maintain water quality and necessary water quantity within the refuge.
Although none of the refuge purposes relate directly to providing for recreation uses of TNWR, they offer standards establishing public use goals and objectives. The goal of the public use program at TNWR is "to provide high-quality lands and wildlife-oriented recreation, subsistence, interpretive, and educational opportunities consistent with the refuge's resource-oriented purposes."
This is a unique wilderness area that allows airplanes and power boats within the wilderness area as a means of access. We will encounter power boats on the river used for sport fishing and by native Yupik Eskimos for subsistence. We recommend stepping out of the water when you see power boats to avoid being splashed by the boat's wake.
Aircraft Safety
During your trip, you will be around aircraft on several occasions. Please keep your safety in mind at all times and stay away from any plane unless you are actively getting on or off the aircraft.
When you land at the starting point of your trip, you will be met by Alaska Rainbow Adventures guides who will escort you away from the aircraft. The guides will take care of offloading your baggage. Please stay away from the aircraft and take a moment to notice where the aircraft is located.
Critical Safety Rule: Never walk toward the front of the plane - this is where the propeller is located. Guests should avoid the landing area for aircraft at all times.
Respecting Native Culture
The natives have been using this river for subsistence hunting, fishing, ice fishing, berry picking, and firewood gathering for thousands of years, and we must respect their beliefs and culture. Their subsistence use is essential to the local economy.
We have many friends in the village, and they occasionally visit our camps in the lower river to say hello. Please do not offer any alcoholic beverages to our native friends. All of the villages on the rivers we float are "Dry," and it's illegal to drink alcohol there.
We understand that some natives have religious beliefs that oppose catch and release techniques. When natives are present, we discourage photographing fish and urge our guests to handle fish with the utmost respect, as they are considered thinking, feeling beings by the local Yup'ik Eskimos.
Trace-Free Camping
We practice trace-free camping, which means leaving absolutely nothing behind. If you smoke, please put cigarette butts in your pocket or in the trash.
Because we practice these techniques, you will see very little litter in the wilderness area. You should pick up anything you see or point it out to one of the guides, including monofilament fishing line or anything else foreign to the area.
Our commitment to Leave No Trace ensures these pristine waters remain unspoiled for future generations.
Catch & Release Ethics
We practice catch-and-release fishing using single de-barbed hooks and recommend that you de-barb all of your hooks before fishing. This way, no one will forget to de-barb a hook and unnecessarily harm a fish or yourself.
We strongly recommend that you wear polarized glasses for eye protection.
Although guides will try to release all the fish, there will be times when guests will have to release their own. When doing so, keep the fish in the water whenever possible.
Fish Photography Guidelines
When releasing a fish from shore, we recommend keeping the fish in the water at all times and releasing it in at least one foot of water.
If you wish to photograph a fish from a boat, we will pull the boat over to shore to ensure that the fish remains in the water. While we do allow fish to be photographed, we discourage excessive photographing and do not permit photographing when natives are present.
Proper technique: Gently hold the fish in the water until the photographer is ready, then quickly raise it six to eight inches before immediately lowering it back into the water and releasing it.
Bear Safety
We have never had a serious problem with bears in our many years of guiding in Alaska. Our guides have shotguns with slugs for protection, which is why we do not allow guests to bring firearms or bear spray.
If you encounter a bear: Speak loudly to avoid startling it and give it plenty of room to do what it wants. It is crucial not to run. Wave your arms and yell, "Hey bear!" to alert others and send the bear running.
Our camp system is designed with bear safety in mind, and our experienced guides know how to manage wildlife encounters.
Life Jackets & Wading Safety
Your safety is our top priority. We provide commercial-type life jackets and recommend wearing them while on the boats or in the water.
Eye protection is required while fishing. If you wear waders, you should use a wading belt for safety.
Please be cautious when wading and avoid stepping in spawning beds (redds), as this could wash salmon eggs downriver and damage critical habitat.
Fishing Guidance & Techniques
Our guides are always available to assist you in finding the best fishing spots and techniques for the various species you will encounter daily.
We recommend having several rods set up to make switching techniques easier. Please keep your fishing license handy throughout your trip - you must have it on your person at all times while fishing.
Each evening, we'll discuss the plan for the next day's fishing, helping you prepare tackle and understand what species and techniques will be most productive.
Daily Schedule & Camp Routine
A Typical Day on the River
7:15 AM - Coffee Service: Our guides will be up early to serve coffee. This is a great time to enjoy the morning light and plan your day.
8:00 AM - Breakfast: Hearty breakfast prepared by your guides to fuel you for the day ahead.
Before Breakfast: Pack your gear in dry bags and leave them by your tent for the guides to load. This prevents tents from being blown over in the event of strong winds.
9:30-10:00 AM - On the River: We depart camp and begin the day's fishing adventure.
1:00 PM - Deli-Style Lunch: We'll stop for a riverside lunch with sandwiches, snacks, and refreshments. This is typically a 30-45 minute break before continuing downstream.
Afternoon Fishing: Continue exploring productive waters as we work our way to the evening's campsite.
5:30-6:00 PM - Make Camp: We arrive at our evening campsite where guides will set up the dining tent and sleeping tents.
Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your guide while sharing stories around the driftwood fire.
Evening Discussion: Review the day's highlights and discuss tomorrow's fishing plan.
Please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything we can do to assist you. We have the necessary equipment to repair or replace most items, so please do not tolerate any discomfort.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss fishing, feel free to contact the guides at any time. Our goal is to provide you with an enjoyable and comfortable trip.
Your Travel Timeline
Step-by-Step Journey to the River
Book Your Trip: Secure your dates with Alaska Rainbow Adventures. High-demand dates fill up quickly, sometimes a year or more in advance.
Purchase Insurance: Buy trip cancellation and medical evacuation insurance within 14-21 days of your deposit.
Complete Required Forms: You will receive a liability waiver, acknowledgment of risks form, and pre-trip questionnaire. Complete and return these as soon as possible.
Book Flights: Reserve commercial flights to Anchorage and your hub city. Remember to arrive at the hub city the evening before your trip.
Reserve Accommodations: Book your B&B in the hub city (Hackney's in Bethel for Goodnews trips) for the night before your trip. Consider booking for your return day as well, especially if flying out the next morning.
Purchase Fishing License: Buy your Alaska sport fishing license online at adfg.alaska.gov
Order Bush Alcohol (if desired): Arrange bush orders from Anchorage well in advance
Gather Gear: Collect and organize all fishing and camping equipment
Physical Preparation: These trips involve wading and light physical activity - stay in good shape
Confirm Reservations: Reconfirm all flights, B&B booking (including return-day plans), and trip details with Alaska Rainbow Adventures
Pack & Weigh: Pack your bags and weigh them to ensure you're under 50 lbs of gear
Print Documents: Print fishing license, trip insurance, flight confirmations, and accommodation details
Contact Air Taxi: Call Renfro's (or your hub's air service) to discuss timing for river flight
Fly to Anchorage: Arrive in Anchorage with time to make your connection
Connect to Hub City: Take Alaska Airlines flight to Bethel/King Salmon/Dillingham
Check In to B&B: Renfro's (or respective air service) will pick you up at airport and transport to lodging
Prepare for Tomorrow: Organize gear, get good sleep, wake early for river departure
Morning Pickup: Renfro's (or respective air service) picks you up from B&B
Floatplane Flight: Scenic flight to your river destination (45-90 minutes depending on river)
Meet Your Guides: Our team will greet you at the river put-in
Begin Your Adventure: Your Alaska float fishing experience begins!
River to Village: Complete your float and arrive at take-out location
Flight to Bethel: Wheel plane departs around 2:00 PM back to Bethel (different air service than outbound flight)
Renfro's Hangar: Dropped off at Renfro's hangar to collect any stored gear
Freshen Up (Recommended): Most guests return to the B&B for showers and clean clothes, then shuttle to airport
Return Flight Options: Connect with evening Alaska Airlines flight OR overnight at B&B and fly out next morning
Head Home: Connect through Anchorage and back to lower 48
Terms & Conditions
Important Booking & Cancellation Policies
All guides and guests need to remain vigilant and aware that although several years have passed, COVID-19 is still a real-world issue that can adversely impact operations. This is yet another reason why comprehensive travel insurance is essential for your Alaska adventure.
All of our trips are booked on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to prior booking. Unless you have called, reserved dates, and followed up with a deposit, they may be gone.
Group Size: Space on trips can be booked for groups of 2 to 10 persons depending upon the water you wish to visit. We reserve the right to fill any remaining available spaces if your group size is less than the maximum number of persons we take on any particular trip.
Trip Capacity by River:
- Togiak River: Limited to 6 guests by permit
- Goodnews River: Limited to 8 guests
- Kanektok River: Limited to 8 guests
All rates are based upon double occupancy. If you are a single angler, please ask about joining one of our existing trips. We can let you know what is available and can also put you on our email list that keeps you updated on availability and helps put trips together.
Initial Deposit: A deposit of 50% of the trip cost is required to confirm a booking. Once confirmed by receipt of initial payment/deposit, you are responsible for the entire full balance even if you do not participate in the trip for any reason.
Deposit Timing: Deposits are due within 15 days of requesting space on any trip. Please note that during this time, the spaces remain available for sale.
Final Payment: Payment of the balance in full is due no later than 60 days before the start date of your adventure or June 1st, whichever comes first.
Late Bookings: All reservations made within 60 days of departure require that payment be made in full at the time of booking. "Special offers" must be paid in full at the time of booking unless other arrangements have been made.
Payments can be made by:
- Check
- Wire transfer
Important: If for any reason payment has not been made in full before the trip start date, participation on the trip will not be allowed and no monies will be refunded.
ALL PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. Once confirmed by receipt of initial payment/deposit, you are responsible for the entire full balance even if you do not participate in the trip for any reason due to the short booking season and loss of revenue this represents.
Transferring Your Spot: If you are unable to participate for any reason, you may transfer your interest to someone else who can participate. While we may be able to help fill the space for you, do not assume that we will.
THIS IS WHY TRIP INSURANCE IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED AND NOW REQUIRED. If you cancel or fail to participate in the trip, all monies received are not refundable.
Weather & Conditions Beyond Our Control: Alaska Rainbow Adventures is not responsible for any loss, damage, or injury to persons or property however caused, or for any costs of accommodations and associated services caused by weather, transportation problems, and other events beyond Alaska Rainbow Adventures' control.
No refunds - full or partial - for trips canceled due to reasons out of our control are available. We cannot strongly enough recommend that you purchase trip insurance should something unforeseen occur.
If Alaska Rainbow Adventures Cancels: If Alaska Rainbow Adventures cancels for reasons within our control, we will reschedule you for the next available date that works for you. There will be no refunds for canceled trips for any reason.
Schedule Changes: When necessary for the safety or comfort of our guests, Alaska Rainbow Adventures has the right to cancel or make reasonable schedule changes to all or a portion of your trip or services without recourse. This can be due to weather or items out of our control.
Service Modifications: While we make every attempt to have all the items we promise for any particular trip, due to operations and the logistics of operating in remote areas of Alaska, some services may be subject to change without notice. Examples include items left behind at the departure location because they did not fit in the allotted aircraft due to capacity restrictions.
Physical Fitness: It is your responsibility to ascertain that you are fit enough to participate in this type of activity. In doing so, you accept all risks and costs involved should it be deemed you are unable to participate at any time before or during your trip with Alaska Rainbow Adventures.
Emergency Evacuation: Due to budget cuts in Alaska limiting the availability of State Trooper and Air Guard resources, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance including policies that cover extraction via helicopter if the need arises. If you choose not to purchase a policy and need extraction services, you are responsible for all associated costs.
Liability Waiver: Each angler wishing to participate in any trip arranged by Alaska Rainbow Adventures must read and sign an "acknowledgment of risks" form and a copy of these terms and conditions. You accept and are bound by these terms and conditions even if you do not return the form.
Rates and terms are subject to change without notice unless they have been confirmed by receipt of deposit(s) by Alaska Rainbow Adventures. No refunds or credits will be given for any reason.
Receipt of deposit by Alaska Rainbow Adventures means you agree to these terms and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
We always do our best to accommodate. If your gear goes a few pounds over but still fits within the plane's overall capacity, we'll make it work. However, significant overages may result in additional charter costs being your responsibility, or you may need to leave non-essential items behind.
Sleeping bags are available for rent in Bethel (20-degree or 0-degree with fresh liners). We can sometimes lend rods and reels if arranged in advance - contact us when booking. However, we do not have fishing licenses, waders, or tackle available as we operate from remote locations far from supply sources.
This is exactly why we recommend arriving at the hub city the evening before your trip and scheduling your return flight with a buffer day. If you can't make your trip start date due to commercial flight delays, trip insurance will typically cover associated costs.
No. You'll have no cell service or internet access on the river - this is true wilderness! Our guides carry satellite communication devices strictly for business communication and emergencies. You're welcome to bring your own satellite device (Garmin inReach is popular for texting). But honestly, wouldn't you rather completely disconnect and immerse yourself in Alaska?
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions, allergies, or special requirements when booking your trip. We'll do our best to accommodate within the limits of bush logistics. Severe restrictions may require bringing some personal food items within your weight allowance.
These trips involve daily wading in rivers, getting in and out of rafts, and (on Standard trips) some participation in camp setup. Being in good physical shape beforehand will significantly enhance your enjoyment and comfort. If you have concerns about physical requirements, contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Guide Gratuities: Not included in trip cost. Industry standard is 15-20% of trip cost, divided among your guide team based on service quality.
Bush Pilot Gratuity: $50-100 per person is customary for the pilots who transport you to and from the river.
Bring cash for gratuities as credit cards are not available in the bush.
Yes! Non-fishing guests are welcome on many of our trips. They'll experience the same incredible wilderness, wildlife viewing, and camping adventure. Pricing may be adjusted for non-fishing guests - contact us to discuss.
It depends on your flight timing: Most guests with evening flights return to the B&B after landing at Renfro's hangar, shower, change into fresh clothes, and then shuttle to the airport. This gives you time to freshen up after a week on the river.
If you have an early evening flight, you may only need the room for a few hours (day rate). If you're flying out the next morning (recommended), book the room for that night to ensure you have accommodations. Coordinate with Hackney's about your specific timing and needs.
Your trip includes:
- Floatplane transportation from hub city to river and return
- Professional guide service and fishing instruction
- All camping equipment and facilities (tents, cots, chairs)
- All meals from dinner on day 1 through lunch on the last day
- Limited snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, purified water
- Life jackets and safety equipment
Not included: Commercial flights, B&B accommodations, fishing license, personal fishing gear (rods/reels/tackle), sleeping bag (rentals available in Bethel), waders, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, or trip insurance.
YES - This is critical. You are responsible for purchasing your Alaska fishing license before your trip and having it on your person at all times while fishing. If you forget it, you will not be able to fish on the trip as we do not sell fishing licenses and they are not available on the river.
Purchase online at adfg.alaska.gov. If you plan on targeting King Salmon (when available), you must also purchase a King Stamp.
We practice catch-and-release fishing for conservation. While we do allow selective harvest within Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations, we do not offer fish processing services, and such services are rarely available in the hub cities of King Salmon, Dillingham, or Bethel from where we operate.
The focus of our trips is on catch-and-release sport fishing using single de-barbed hooks to preserve Alaska's wild fish populations for future generations.
If you have any issues with equipment, food, guides, or anything during the trip, please discuss them with the head guide privately and we will do our best to resolve them. Taking time to communicate with us during your trip helps prevent misunderstandings and can help make your trip be all you want it to be.
Important: We always default to what is the safest option for all participants, and the decisions of the lead guide are final.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Don't Leave Home Without These Items
- Valid photo ID / passport
- Alaska fishing license (printed)
- Signed liability waiver & acknowledgment of risks
- Completed pre-trip questionnaire
- Trip insurance documents
- Flight confirmations (all legs)
- B&B reservation confirmation
- Air taxi contact information
- Emergency contact numbers
- Credit cards & cash for gratuities
- Personal medications (full supply + extra)
- Prescription glasses/contacts backup
- Quality rain jacket & rain pants
- Chest waders & wading shoes (no felt/studs)
- Waterproof camp boots
- Sleeping bag (20°F or colder)
- Base layer thermals (2 sets)
- Fleece/insulated jacket
- Fly rods (6-weight+ minimum, 9'+ length)
- Reels with plenty of backing
- Leaders, tippet, flies (LOTS of flies)
- Pliers, nippers, line tools
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Polarized sunglasses
Weigh your packed bags one final time before leaving home!
Target: 50 pounds of gear or less (or total of you + gear = 250 lbs max)
If you're borderline, identify 5-10 pounds of non-essential items you could leave behind if needed. It's easier to decide at home than at the floatplane dock.
Questions About Travel Logistics?
We're here to help you prepare for your Alaska adventure