The Kenektok River brings back fond memories. I floated 6 days with friends from the headwater lake to Quinaghak in late July 1994. The Grayling, Char, and Rainbow were plentiful all the way and were willing to take streamer and egg patterns. The river was full of spawning Reds and there were big and little bear tracks at literally every pullout. We saw a huge bear fish in a back eddy full of Reds pulling them out and devouring them one by one. Fascinating and exciting to watch.

I went again in early July 2004 staying at one of the fishing camps up river from the village. We targeted Kings, Chums, and Rainbow. The Kings were just about over but I was able to land a few up to 20 lbs. There were plenty of Chums straight from the salt with bars hardly visible which were a lot of fun. The Kenektok Rainbow are spectacular; brightly colored and spotted everywhere and, if I ever go back, I’d spend more time targeting them. Make sure you take 6, 8, and 10 weight rods (add a 5 wt. for the Rainbows if you’re adventurous). Also you’ll need lines with sink tips for your 8 and 10 weights and both floating and sink-tip lines with your 6 weight.

Your Spey rod will work just fine for Kings and Chums. However, I fished very easily from an anchored guide boat and from the bank with one-handed rods.

The weather can be variable. The temperature didn’t get much above 50 degrees in 1994 but it was in the 70’s in 2004 and I spent most of the time in shirt sleeves. I’d take rain gear, gloves, and especially a good hand cream just to be safe.

The bugs can be variable also. They were especially ferocious along the upper river during the 1994 float but tolerable with bug-go-away along the lower river in 2004.

Have fun. It’s a great river. I’d love to go back. I’m glad that you have the opportunity to go.


John P.