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Floated quite a few...
Posted by Brian Richardson on Dec 30 2005
I do trips in both the Western Arctic and Central Arctic running both the Noatak and Kobuk rivers from their headwaters. Noticed your posting hails from Plamer, AK. So no regulatory setbacks at present on the Caribou, Moose, Griz, and predator hunting.
I would caution you on the upper reaches of the Kobuk unless you are a very proficient boater, w/ excellent suitable equipment, in bigger stakes waters, running w/ a multi-day loading. I run it every year. Every year possess a different set of challenges… extremely low drought - to flood stages - to mean water levels… Some technical, some Big water canyoning, and it can be w/ frosty temps. Fishing is inconceivable if you’ve never been to this kind of diversity… alluring to say the least! Arctic Game is plentiful on this river through the woods… however it is see ‘em where you see ‘em along the river if not you’ll have to weed ‘em out. All the animals that are posted on your list of options are there. It depends on timing, how far you will decide to float, and how many days in the field you plan to spend. As far as cookie-cutter maps showing boundaries… I basically advise keeping to the river. This is not bushwhacking country for endless pursuit anyway. I can declare that I’ve witnessed the golden years come and go for the mid section of the Kobuk. I would also advise having all papers in order… you will be stopped, met by uniformed branches of Park service, Fish & Game, etc. carrying shotguns & AR 15s. No joke! They are very professional, but serious about knowing the traffic down the river.
The Noatak is an undemanding river as far as river running expertise. Wilderness sense, good equipment, & sound decision making are still vital. The surroundings are more open. Again - All the animals that are noted on your list of opportunity are there. It will depend on timing, how far you will decide to float, and how many days in the field you plan to spend.
Much of this info above applies to tributaries of these two East to west flowing rivers. Both rivers will be quite expensive trips whether Guided, Outfitted/Un-guided, or do-it-yourselfer. If you were to make this trip “successful” in terms of candidly the animals in the bag & on the wall… greatest opportunity is a Super-Cub style Expedition over 10 days… keep it few, keep it light, and not a float for all. Second best option is obviously going w/ someone who knows the trends of the rivers. Third best option is paying in advance for a trip plan & GPS plotting based on genuine first hand experience. I would say if it is an inclusive, unassisted do-it-yourselfer for the first time --- give full attention to a single game species.
Brian Richardson
http://www.northernrim.com
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