Sedanka Float Trip, Kamchatka, Russia

The Sedanka is one of the most biologically diverse drainages of the entire Kamchatka peninsula, with all 6 species of Pacific salmon, rainbow trout, kundzha and both resident and sea-run dolly varden char. This spring creek ecosystem is particularly rich with insect, mouse, and salmon biomass that feeds an exceptionally dense population of 18 – 27 inch native rainbow trout.

One of the most biologically diverse drainage systems in the peninusla

The Sedanka is one of the most biologically diverse drainages of the entire Kamchatka peninsula, with all 6 species of Pacific salmon, rainbow trout, kundzha and both resident and sea-run dolly varden char. This spring creek ecosystem is particularly rich with insect, mouse, and salmon biomass that feeds an exceptionally dense population of 18 – 27 inch native rainbow trout. It was discovered in 1998 and has since proved to be a flyfishing destination of incomparable beauty and excitement. Along with the Zhupanova River, it is one of the two flagship rivers of Kamchatka and is an excellent choice for a first trip to Kamchatka. What’s more, owing to its spring origin and expansive lava rock in the drainage, rainstorms do not “blow out” the Sedanka. It is air clear, everyday of the year.

The constant flow and temperature regimes produce dense insect life which, for the flyfisher, means perhaps the finest dry fly fishing in the world. Sedanka trout, like all Kamchatka trout, are opportunistic feeders. With just 4 months of the year to feed, they have no choice but to stuff themselves with whatever they can get during the short summer. Throughout July, August and September, fishing with mouse patterns on the surface, and smolt patterns just beneath the surface coaxes thrilling, vicious strikes from fish filling their stomachs for the 8 month winter fast to come.

This program is fully guided and involves a combination of traditional walk and wade fishing, float days that utilize inflatable rafts to move downstream, and occasionally jet-motor skiffs are employed to access still more water. All fishing is by wading, with boats merely used as transportation from spot to spot. Because a portion of the week is spent walking and wading, this is the most physically demanding of our Kamchatka trips, though anyone in reasonable shape will be able to take full advantage.

Accommodations are simple, rustic, and cozy, with double occupancy cabins, flush toilet outhouses, and reliable hot water showers.

The lower Sedanka is an idyllic stretch of perfect, spring-fed trout habitat. With its crystal clears water, classic riffles and glides, and a population of hyper-aggressive rainbow trout, it epitomizes the Kamchatka flyfishing experience. In addition to the native trout, it is home to all 6 species of Pacific salmon, as well as kundzha char and sea-run dolly varden. Rainbows are normally in the 18 – 27 inch range and are incredibly abundant.

This fishing is typified by ACTION, and more 24-28 inch rainbows haunt this lower section than any other in the drainage.

A 3 hour helicopter ride from Petropavlovsk is the only method of access to the Sedanka Jet-Boat Camp, and once there the water is exclusively yours. The fishing program has anglers head out each morning and return each evening via American-made, shallow-draft, jet-driven skiffs, identical to the style in use on the rivers of western Alaska. All fishing is by wading, with jet-boats (2 anglers and 1 guide per boat) merely used as transportation from spot to spot.

“I have never experienced such incredible trout fishing, and am looking forward to returning.” A.S. – UK

Remote, wild and rustic

Accommodations are simple and rustic, with double occupancy heated tent cabins, flush toilet outhouses, reliable hot water showers and food that is plentiful and good. This is a rustic Russian wilderness camp where the focus is placed squarely on the fishing. With fabulous home water it offers a unique opportunity to get into a daily groove. Eat, fish, sleep, repeat.

There are three camps spread out on the river, roughly 10 river miles apart. Over the course the 6 day trip, anglers move between all three camps via inflatable rafts.
Each camp is similar in infrastructure, though unique in their character and scenic views. Each two anglers will share a comfortable cabin, with some of the most incredible wilderness vistas imaginable directly out the window or front door. Bunks are provided along with sleeping pads, though you will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. The cabins are spacious inside, and have a covered porch for hanging wet waders and equipment at the end of a fish-filled day on the stream. There are two clean flush toilet outhouses per camp, as well as shower rooms with good water pressure and an endless supply of hot water courtesy of an ingenious Russian wood-fired plumbing system.

The kitchen and dinning rooms are permanent log cabins, built long ago as trappers’ shelters. All camp infrastructure is connected by extensive wooden walkways.

The food in Kamchatka is tasty and plentiful, though certainly not gourmet. Fresh meats and locally grown, geothermal hot-house vegetables. Delicious soups like borsh and ukra are always the first course by Russian tradition and beer and Vodka are available for sale in camp but you will need to bring any other libations with you.

Springing from the toe of an ancient lava flow

The Sedanka River springs from the toe of an ancient lava floe on Kamchatka’s northwest taiga plain.

The Sedanka is one of the most remote rivers in Kamchatka. A 3 hour helicopter ride from Petropavlovsk is the only method of access, and once there the river is yours.