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Sport Fish Division of the Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game

Kuskokwim Management Area



Kanektok MapLocation: Kuskokwim Bay

Overview: A popular float trip of intermediate duration for the experienced or novice rafter. The upper Kanektok is swift, with many shallow channels. Typical of Kuskokwim area streams, the upper section flows through moderate sized Eek and Aklun Mountains (2,000 to 3,000 foot elevation) and gradually reaches lowlands and tundra. The river changes from swift water in the mountains to a gradual slow meandering course in the lowlands with poorly defined channel in many locations. Taiga forest vegetation, including black spruce, birch, aspen, cottonwwod and alders, lines the banks of Kuskokwim lowland streams. The combination of swift current and abundant sweepers requires frequent maneuvering.

Watercraft: raft with a rowing frame is recommended.

Float Duration: 5-7 days from Kagati Lake to Quinhagak.

Attributes: Seasonally excellent angling opportunities for chinook, sockeye and coho salmon and Dolly Varden, rainbow trout and Arctic grayling. Check fishing regulations for restrictions.


Salmon Run Timing
Salmon Species Lower River Mid and Upper River Comments
Chinook (King) Late June July  
Chum (Dog) July Mid to late July  
Sockeye (Red) July Mid to late July  
Pink (Humpies) Late July August Even Year Return
Coho (Silvers) August Mid August -September  

Kanektok RiverAccess: Aircraft charter services are available from Bethel or Dillingham.

Land Managers: State of Alaska, Togiak National Wildlife Refuge and private ownership. See Bureau of Land Management for detailed map.