I am planning a solo trip on the Bloodvein in late August/early September. I have paddled from Artery to Katunigan and from Katunigan to Bloodvein village, one about 10 years ago and one about 5.
Having watched Martin Kehoe's excellent video on the Obukowin Portage and looked at the maps I am inclined to enter through Wallace Lake and come up to the Bloodvein by way of the Gammon. My other, and easier option is to fly into Katunigan and paddle down to the bridge. I am also considering possibly entering at Sasaginnigak Lake and down to the Bloodvein from the lake. I have no sense of how runnable the Sasaginnigak River is.
If memory serves the portages below Katunigan are mostly short and relatively easy whereas I will be facing some pretty tough hauls on the Obukowin route.
I will be paddling a 15' Bell Wildfire Kevlar canoe so weight will be very manageable and, being solo, my gear will be minimal. I think I can get it all in one Duluth pack. I am 72.
I would be interested in any thoughts/guidance, general and/or specific information.
Oh, how much fire damage was there last year and I am I likely to encounter it?
Thank you,
Chris Kelly
ckelly1022@gmail.com