General Information
Originating from Kukaklek and Nonvianuk Lakes, which are located near the
northwestern corner of Katmai National
Park & Preserve, the Alagnak
(80-miles) flows west-southwest to join the Kvichak River which empties
into Bristol Bay. The first 67-miles of the Alagnak are designated Wild
and Scenic. The Nonvianuk, a tributary of the Alagnak originates from Nonvianuk
Lake and offers a gentler float than does the Alagnak.
Access
Access to the river is by scheduled air to King Salmon and then by chartered
air taxi to either Kukaklek Lake or Nonvianuk Lake depending upon the route
to be floated.
River Description
The Alagnak, when originating from its headwaters at Kukaklek Lake, drops
through a canyon with steep walls. During periods of high water two sets
of Class III rapids, which are hidden behind a blind bend, can be particularly
dangerous during periods of high water and due to the steep canyon walls,
portaging the rapids is not an option. By contrast, a more leisurely float
is possible when floating from Nonvianak Lake, via the Nonvianak River
(an 11-mile tributary of the Alagnak--also designated Wild & Scenic).
During periods of low water some Class II rapids may be encountered 3-5
miles down river of the lake. From the point where the Nonvianak and the
Alagnak meet the river braids and broadens into a deep channel. Inflatables
are recommended for the upper Alagnak, while kayaks and canoes are suitable
for use on the Nonvianak route.
Camping
Camping is unrestricted and campfires are allowed, although dead and downed
wood is scarce in the upper portions of the river. Dry campsites in the
wetlands on the lower portion of the river are hard to find. Carry a camp
stove.
Exit
Exit from the river is generally by floatplane within the last 30 miles of
the Kvichak. Tides influence the current of the Kvichak in the last ten
miles before dumping into Bristol Bay. The float is generally 4-5 days
when just floating and 5-6 days when floating and fishing. From Nonvianak
Lake 60-miles, and from Kukaklek Lake 70-miles.
Fishing
A part of the Kvichak watershed and the Bristol Bay Wild Trout Area, the
Alagnak and the Nonvianak offer boaters good fishing seasonally for all
five species of salmon (especially sockeye), Dolly Varden, rainbow and
lake trout. Grayling and pike may be sought in side sloughs and lakes.
Note: Anglers should check special regulations pertaining to the Wild Trout
Area of Bristol Bay. Use only un baited, single-hook artificial flies.
Catch and release is strongly encouraged.
Wildlife
Wildlife along the rivers include brown bear, moose, wolves, wolverine, river
otter, red fox, beaver, and lynx. Birds that may be observed are: Bald
eagles, swans, ducks & geese, ptarmigan, spruce grouse and osprey.
Hunting is allowed during regulated seasons.
