The Kenai River has two runs of king salmon known as the early-run, from May 15 - June 30, and the late-run, which is from July 1 - Aug 20. The world record king salmon, which weighed about 44 kg (97 lb), was caught in the Kenai River in 1985. Fish had strong tendency for quick sinking nymph in the morning. Silver salmon fishing tends to be more relaxing than fishing for Kings and the daily bag limit for Silvers now stands at 2 per person. salmon fishing in Alaska (8/1 - 9/31) involves an acrobatic species July is the month referred to as king fishing madness. Add sake, water and kombu kelp. The late run (July) is projected to be 16,004 fish which is also within the . Weighing an average of 4-5 lbs Pink salmon create great action for first-timers and young anglers because it's almost impossible not to catch dozens of them in any given day. The Kenai River will close entirely to king salmon fishing starting Wednesday. . fare if you choose to keep a few and and combine them with our Alaska King salmon fishing on the Kenai River (5/25 - 7/31) has you fishing for the world's largest, averaging 35 - 60 pounds, with 1/2 a dozen topping the 80 pound mark falling to our guests over the years. Pinks are a lower quality eating fish once they enter the river, however We do harvest other species when the regulations allow it, as they normally do. The river begins at Kenai Lake near the community of Cooper Landing and flows approximately 82 miles down to its mouth in Upper Cook Inlet, near the community of Kenai. We have been fishing for king salmon on the Kenai River as long as any other guides on the river. Call Us Toll Free @ 1-888-283-4002, Alaska Fish On 2017 All Rights Reserved | Also Find us At: Alaska Halibut Fishing Charter. Kenai AK 99611. The lower river started July with a king fishery open to retention, but no bait allowed: The department moved to catch-and-release only, with a note further action might be necessary. lat.) Our guided Silver Salmon trips offer you premium access to the Kenai's Silver Salmon, which average from 10-13 lbs. Each year there are two runs each of king salmon, coho salmon, sockeye salmon, plus a run of pink salmon every other year. August and September are the months for the popular triple header action of Silver Salmon, Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden. The optimal escapement goal being 3,900 - 6,600 fish. Chase" in Resurrection Bay and beyond during July and August. Soldotna City Council members voted during their May 24 meeting to extend the agreement for another year for a lump sum of just under $50,000. The king salmon is the Alaska state fish. It is truly an addictive style of fishing. Now picture a colossal King salmon, taller than many an angler, and heavier than all of our egos. 6-15 pounds. as popular as the famous Kings, they are a real hit with our returning The first run generally runs May 15th -June 30th, and the second run July 1st - July 31st. It's important to remember that these fish counts are the primary in-season management tool used by fish and game. In addition to the great freshwater fishing in the Kenai and Search Tip: Use quotes to find results containing your phrase, exactly, e.g., "Peninsula Clarion". Many of the non resident guides have yet to arrive for the season. King salmon start entering the Kenai River around the last week of May and run through the end of July. 2 photos. Accurate salmon identification is important because Alaskas Salmon intermingle in the rivers. You definitely dont want to be the angler walking home carrying an illegal trout when you thought you caught a salmon. of targeting these great game fish while in the river environment. But he said the runs haven't supported good fishing or harvest. Schools of silver salmon really begin to pile up in the lower reaches of the Kenai River. . Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com. Book your trip today with one of our Kenai River King Salmon Fishing Guides to get your best chance at catching one of these hogs. In the Kasilof River, hatchery king salmon can be kept, but fishing is slow, the report says. We began guiding on the Kenai long before it was popular our guides offer our guests the success that can only come from years of spending every day of the summer on a single body of water. The Kenai River king salmon run has been weak enough to prompt the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to close it to . As per the Kenai River Late Run king salmon management plan, no other commercial set gillnet openings in the Upper Subdistrict of the Central District will occur after Tuesday, July 20, unless the Kenai River late run king salmon abundance improves, Marston said in his commercial fisheries announcement Monday. KENAI RIVER EARLY-RUN KING SALMON FINAL 2021 SUMMARY. King salmon may not be retained or possessed; king salmon caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. If you, your family, or your friends love fishing, then taking an Alaskan fishing trip with Alaska Fish On Charters should be to As you may already know, King Salmon can become real-life river monsters. Salmon fishing on the Kenai in June goes through warm and cool spells making your guide very important in knowing where and how to find the fish on a regular basis. Alaska King salmon fishing on the Kenai River (5/25 - 7/31) has you fishing for the world's largest, averaging 35 - 60 pounds, with 1/2 a dozen topping the 80 pound mark falling to our guests over the years. King Salmon Hibachi $18.00 Fillet Mignon Hibachi $24.00 Live Lobster Hibachi . After a day on the Kenai River our staff will be there to help you unload, filet your catch for easy shipping, and snap pictures of your catch which are published on our website. Join us this year for some of the best Alaska salmon fishing the state has to offer. $13.95 Piper Roll. Well guide you down the Kasilof river, known to local residents as one of the top salmon fishing areas for big game fishing. We also target the great Kasilof River king salmon which average 15-35 pounds, with exceptional specimens reaching the high 60's. A freshly stocked rainbow trout swims in Johnson Lake during Salmon Celebration on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at Johnson Lake in Kasilof, Alaska. mykingoftheriver@gmail.com, mail Chum Salmon are the 2nd most abundant species and 2nd only to the King salmon in size. Kenai River is home to the world's largest salmon! You can expect quality and professional guide services from King of the River. Even the resident guide services are just beginning to get their boats ready come mid month. The department recommends trying to fish with pink fry pattern flies. Naturally produced king salmon have an adipose fin and may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. There are an endless number of ways to prepare salmon, but there is nothing better than savoring the taste of wild Alaskan salmon. Visit the most famous fishing river in all of Alaska. One of the guides has a deckhand who will assist you in your fishing and will professionally clean your catch for you. The similar features and physical changes during spawning can create challenges in identifying the species. May is a great month to come if you really want some solitude to your fishing experience. King Salmon Run Update: The total estimated passage through June 30 was 4,131 large king salmon (> 75 cm mid-eye-to-tail-fork-length or ~ 34 inches in total length). Emergency Order 2-KS-1-10-23 closes sport fishing for king salmon of all sizes in the Kenai River from the mouth upstream to the outlet of Skilak Lake from 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 1 through 11:59 p.m. Friday, June 30, 2023. King Salmon. For those not familiar with the salmon fishing seasons on the Kenai River we are going to give you a quick primer. Humpback Salmon (8/1 9/1, Even years only) go sockeye one better. Please review the emergency orders and advisory announcements below in their entirety before heading out on your next fishing trip. Brian Marston, commercial area management biologist for Upper Cook Inlet, said no more openings will be planned for setnetters this season unless something changes. Reservations Under the terms of the agreement, if Soldotna places more than . September season. Make sure to ask me about the current rules and regulations for kings, as they tend to change frequently. The Kenai River is where fishing legends are born. Pinks average 4-10 pounds and will strike anything, anywhere, This closure prohibits all sport fishing for king salmon, including catch-and-release fishing. King salmon have two different times they enter the Kenai River. Each species of salmon has unique and interesting characteristics. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion). King salmon are known for their legendary size and good table fare but have much fewer numbers.This makes each catch an extremely valuable and rewarding experience. The world record was taken just minutes from our resort weighing in at a whopping 97 pound 4 ounces. Look at that monster, is a pretty common response our Kenai River King Salmon Fishing Guides hear. You just sit back and fish! King salmon sport fisheries in the salt waters of Cook Inlet north of Bluff Point are closed. The Kenai River is a large glacial system draining the central Kenai Peninsula. There are two distinct runs of big Kings. It was the second-smallest sockeye catch on record for the region, but the total ex-vessel value of the fishery was the lowest on record, according to Fish and Game. Some years we see this top number reach into the 80s. Phone: +1 907-279-3474 (FISH) Sockeye are perfect for both spinning and fly rods, and their fighting ability is legendary. The Sockeyes eggs and decomposing bodies provide nutrients for the fat rainbows we love in August and September. Please contact King of the River to book with a professional Kenai fishing guide service. What many writers have proclaimed as being The Best Fishing in Alaska can be enjoyed without the high costs of flying out to some remote location deep in the wilderness of the Last Frontier. In Ninilchik, at the Ninilchik River, the fishery will be held on Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the lower river from the Sterling Highway Bridge to the mouth and including the harbor. A great catch and release species, they are also excellent table The Alaskan Department of Fish & Game will close the season down for king salmon on the last day of July. Clients land an average of 6 Silvers over 17 lbs each, many over 16 . This closure prohibits all sport fishing for . Weighing an average of 4-5 lbs Pink salmon create great action for first-timers and young anglers because its almost impossible not to catch dozens of them in any given day. The run can number over a million strong, and thousands upon thousands gather in front of the lodge and make for great fun in the evenings after the King charters are over (in fact, many guests choose to target the Sockeye rather than the Kings!). 75% of the United States consumption of Coho salmon comes from Alaska. Yamame (landlocked) or Sakura-masu (sea-run) [jp] / Cherry Salmon or Seema [eg] Oncorhynchus masou (Brevoort, 1856) One of the most popular species for Japanese stream anglers are no doubt cherry salmon. Our Fishing Boats are eco-friendly aluminum boats with four armrest cushion seats and rod holders. Silvers Whether you areking salmon fishing,silver salmon fishing,sockeye salmon fishingortrout fishing, you need tobe able to accurately identify the fish. If you are local or if youre going to be in Alaska and would like to join us for a couple Fun tournaments for Feeder Kings, one tournament is around March 18 and the other is my favorite a two day tournament around Oct the 10th. surrounding rivers, some of our finest Silver salmon fishing in Alaska Make sure to give yourself enough time so we dont miss the morning bite! Remember, the largest sport-caught king salmon was 97 pounds 4 ounces and was caught back in 1985 on the Kenai River. With over 20 years in the business, we have many options available to us that will make your Alaska fishing trip a extraordinary success. anytime! The cumulative estimated passage as of May 29 is 24 large king salmon (greater than 34" in length) and 3,210 fish (20" - 34" in length). The Kenai River is a well-known fishing hot spot for Rainbow trout. Happy Customers The lower Kenai is closest to the town of Soldotna. While this huge fish was the product of a primitive fish-wheel, it proves that there is some major wiggle room in the largest sport caught salmon yet to be had. Type of Trip: Let our experienced Kenai River fishing guides take you on the Alaska Salmon trip of a lifetime! It supports one of the healthiest and most robust populations in Alaska, making it an excellent place to catch these fish! May through September, something is always jumping in the Kenai. Email Us, Board of Fisheries and Game: Actions & Activities, Alaska Resources Library and Information Services (ARLIS), Western Alaska Salmon Stock Identification Program (WASSIP), Online General Season & Registration Permits, Subsistence and Personal Use Fishing Permits, CSIS Community Subsistence Information System, The Technical Papers and Special Publications Series, Upper Cook Inlet Area Management Biologist. Countless 50, 60 and 70 pound salmon have been kept or released over the years, as well. Endlessly entertaining, they are perfect for youngsters, beginning fly . Come join us for World-Class fishing on the Kenai & Kasilof Rivers. (b) While the Nushagak River king salmon are listed as a stock of management concern, it is the intent of the board that all Nushagak District salmon stocks are managed conservatively through June 28 to protect Nushagak River king salmon, consistent with 5 AAC 39.222 (policy for the management of sustainable salmon fisheries). KENAI RIVER EARLY-RUN KING SALMON SUMMARY #01 updated 5/30/2023. Both of these methods are very effective for catchingmonster fish and are easy to learn with aguide. Those are the sounds of exhilaration as the dreams of anglers from every walk of life are more than realized in the days spent salmon fishing on the Kenai River. In places like the Kenai River, this makes it very difficult for shore anglers to catch them. Call today and lets talk Alaska king salmon fishing! perfect for smoking or the barbecue, or anyone who enjoys a milder "The Kenai River is known for having some of the largest chinook salmon in the world," Pawluk said. That's following an announcement from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game that it will be closing the early-run fishery to. Every year we see the eyes of or clients nearly exploding out of their heads. While 97 pounds 4 ounces is the current leader in the pursuit of the largest salmon caught on rod and real, we know in our hearts that this record will not be standing forever. Silver Salmon Kenai & Kasilof River CALL 907-279-3474 (FISH) Kenai River and Kasilof River Fishing Guide Professional Fishing Guide Service with 40 years experience Dean Schlehofer, a professional fishing guide, has been fishing the Kenai Peninsula since 1986. Emergency Order 2-KS-1-11-23 closes the Kenai River to fishing for king salmon and prohibits the use of bait and multiple hooks in the Kenai River from its mouth upstream to ADF&G markers located at the outlet of Skilak Lake from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023. Fishing for king salmon will remain closed from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023, in waters of the Kenai River drainage from an ADF&G regulatory marker located approximately 300 yards downstream from the mouth of Slikok Creek, upstream to the outlet of Skilak Lake. During your charter on the Kenai river you will typically be fishing with a total of four anglers . All rights reserved. Emergency Order 2-KS-1-08-23 prohibits the retention of naturally produced king salmon beginning 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 1 through 11:59 p.m. Friday, June 30, 2023. Alaska Public Media 2023. So if youre hopping to cash in on the best months for Salmon fishing on the Kenai River, please read on. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Alaska is beautiful state that offers one of the most magnificent fishing experiences in the country. Johnson Lake was stocked this week with more than 5,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout, making for excellent fishing, the report says. 1 review. How many rivers can make that claim? The largest King Salmon ever taken from Alaskan waters weighed in at a whopping 126 pounds. Emergency Order 2-KS-7-15-23 prohibits sport fishing for king salmon (including catch-and-release) in the salt waters of Cook Inlet north of the latitude of Bluff Point (59 40.00 N. For the full story on Les Andersons catch, click on the link below. A 1992 study suggested that Kenai River chinook (both sexes) were the largest kings after four . Spawning salmon go through dramatic physical changes. The world record king salmon was caught by Les Anderson on May 17th, 1985 and weighed 97.25lbs! The Kenai is also the home of trophy size rainbow . Kenai kings are a very unique population, historically producing extremely large fish that helped put Alaska sportfishing on the map as the world-class sportfishing destination it is. If you are coming in from other states the lodging book up just as fast we can line up everything for you. On this page we highlight the whens and whys to the key months for planning your trip to Alaska. With a world record set at nearly 100 pounds, you can see why so many people are interested in Alaska King salmon fishing on the Kenai River. Each has a different daily bag limit and different regulations. In 2022 our clients landed over 2,000 salmon on both the Kasilof River and Kenai River! A short drive from the Kenai River in Kenai, Alaska (approximately 13 miles from the mouth of the Kenai) is a lesser-known fishery, the Kasilof River. King of the River Emergency Order 2-KS-1-09-23 restricts the duration of fishing periods in the personal use set gillnet fishery at the mouth of the Kasilof River. This can be a few days or even a week but all the time there are stragglers from the early run being mixed with the early arrivers from the second run. Hatchery salmon do not have an adipose fin, and any naturally produced king salmon that do have an adipose fin may not be removed from the water and must be immediately released. ---Day TripPackage Trip. June continues with more spring king fishing as the runs build and the trailers begin to fill the parking areas. So give us a call and lets talk fishing on a more personal basis. Check our Kenai River salmon run timing chart below for more details. We have 25 years of experience fly fishing these Alaskan waters, book now for your next adventure! With fishing being best in the morning, most likely we will be departing at the discussed boat launch at 5:30am. King salmon populations have been suffering in Cook Inlet. Just imaging, last summer on July 17th, 230,643 sockeye, thats nearly a quarter of a million fish, entered the river on that one day alone. It wa, Nice little kenai steelhead! Rainbow, Dolley Varden, Silver salmon and a combo of all three. Single-hook means a fishhook with only one point. On most days we start by going out and getting our guest their two halibut one being over 28 and one being under 28. Emergency Order 2-DV-1-03-23 establishes a bag and possession limit of Arctic char/Dolly Varden in Stormy Lake of one fish, less than 16 inches in length for the 2023 season. Alaska King salmon fishing on the Kenai River give you a good shot at a world record! Emergency Order 2-KS-1-11-23 closes the Kenai River to fishing for king salmon and prohibits the use of bait and multiple hooks in the Kenai River from its mouth upstream to ADF&G markers located at the outlet of Skilak Lake from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023. Fishing for king salmon will remain closed from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 31 . As of Sunday, 214,000 sockeye had passed the sonar in the Kenai River, with a projected final escapement of between 790,000 and 1.4 million sockeye. September continues with plenty of action from wave after wave of Silver Salmon making their way to the spawning beds in the upper reaches of the Kenai. Mooching Mooching setup for saltwater king salmon fishing The department recommends trying to fish from the shore of the Crooked Creek State Recreation Site. The hours open to fishing in the personal use set gillnet fishery shall be reduced from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m., to 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18 and 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Monday, June 19 through Saturday, June 24, 2023. Mixed in these groupings are some schools of wild king salmon in the 50 to 70 pound class. Pound for pound there is not a freshwater game fish in North America that can touch them. Its been a slow start with a late spring. Fish and Game only counts large kings, which are kings longer than 75 centimeters from mid-eye to tail fork, for escapement. Additionally, only one single hook either baited, unbaited, or on an artificial lure may be used beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, May 16 through 11:59 p.m. Friday, June 30, 2023. But even with the fishery closed, biologists dont think the run will make the minimum escapement goal. The second run of Kings on the Kenai starts on the 1st of July and continues throughout the month. Kenai River King Salmon are the largest in the world. This past week the Alaska Department of Fish released the 2022 king salmon forecast for the Kenai River. This run starts arriving around the second week of May and often is led in by some really nice fish. With a world record set at nearly 100 pounds, you can see why so many people are interested in Alaska King salmon fishing on the Kenai River. Chum Salmon are the 2nd most abundant species and 2nd only to the King salmon in size. The Kenai King salmon are some of the hardest fighting fish in the world. We work very hard to help you book your dream Alaska adventure. Kenai Riverside Resort is excited to provide a unique glamping experience combining luxury accommodations in a wilderness setting, on one of the most majestic rivers in the world. For this reason, there are a number of published identification guidelines to help identify both spawning and non-spawning salmon. Experience the explosive power of our Alaska Silver Salmon! Adventure Travel Web Design by Canyons Digital. Our licensed, expert fishing guides have been creating memories for our friends and guests for nearly 30 years. 2 reviews 2 photos. King of the River will put you on quality king salmon, sockeye salmon, silver salmon, and will make sure you have an amazing Kenai River fishing charter. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Make Your Alaskan Trip Memorable With The Help Of Alaskan Fishing Guides, Getting the Best Alaskan Fishing Adventure and Tour Package. A Northern Kenai Fishing report published by the Department of Fish and Game dated for Thursday says that fishing for Kasilof River hatchery king salmon is slow, that Cook Inlet halibut fishing is good and that lake fishing is excellent. tasting fish. We work very hard to help you book your dream Alaska adventure. For additional information on accurate king counts, please click on the link below. $13.95 Rainbow Caviar Roll $12.95 Mystic Roll. All king salmon caught in the fisheries are part of the Cook Inlet annual limit of five salmon. The closure affects both the sport fishery in the river and the commercial fishery. We have good reason to believe this as the records from commercial catches show that exceeding this size is possible. The personal-use dipnet fishery remains open, but only for other species they cant keep kings, either. This closure prohibits all sport fishing for king salmon, including catch-and-release fishing. This closure prohibits all sport fishing for . Check our Kenai River salmon run timing chart below for more details. The Kenai River holds 8 out of the top 10 record King salmon in the world, with the world record being 97.4 lbs. Please not we are catch and release for all Kenai river King salmon fishing, regardless of current regulations. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game announced the closure Monday afternoon after nearly three weeks of. Great Alaska Adventures is for sale! Plan on fighting one of these massive wildlife fish anywhere from a half hour to an hour when in the tidal waters. occurs each year in the saltwater aboard our offshore boat "the Fair Sockeye salmon are the 3rd most abundant species and can weigh up to 15 pounds. October is the month for spectacular rainbow trout fishing in our favorite fishing holes where 20 to 25 inch rainbows are the norm. September is also the time to really hammer in on the trophy rainbow trout of the Kenai River Special Management Area. July is a good time to fish for trophy kings with our Kenai River king salmon fishing guides as the June regulations are removed and there is a strong return of 50+ pound Hogs. When you are Alaska King salmon fishingfor massive Kings, keep one thing in mind: the fishing guide that youre withdeals with these fish everyday and knowswhat that fish is going to do before you do. following them in are the sea-run Dolly Varden (Char) that also make a fine quary for light tackle fishing. Fishing for King salmon on the Kenai River begins in mid-May as the first run of these giants begins entering the river. Only 2,872 large kings have passed the sonar on the Kenai River since July 1. Toll Free: 888-283-4002. Imagine King Salmon from 30 to 80 pounds! Kenai Salmon Run Timing Kenai First Run Kenai Second Run; Pick up the phone and call us today at 907-252-5464: King Salmon: Mid-May to Early June: Early June to Season Closure July 31: Sockeye Salmon: Late-May to Early July: Mid-July to Mid-August: Coho Salmon: Late-July through August: Early September Through Season Closure November 30: Pink . $13.95 Dancing Shrimp Roll. [2] Its common name is derived from the Chinookan peoples. Our boats are eco-friendly and roomy for an enjoyable Kenai, Alaska fishing adventure! Kings can be kept up to 36once they get their numbers to sustain the numbers for the future king runs they will take away regulations. Beginners and experts enjoy success as our expert guides maneuver the boat to the fish- but once it's hookedit's all up to you! Hit Flies. Owner & operator Dean Schlehofer has guided thousands of clients over 40 years. The other reason why guest come in July is they can book a combo kings and sockeye salmon. Only on the Kenai River is it possible to catch a king salmon of this size. As spring transitions into summer the fishing slows while we wait for the second run to arrive. Please note: To support and help or amazing trophy fishery, beginning in 2018 Great Alaska adventures became a "Catch-and-release only" destination for Kenai River Kings. These Kenai River kings are know for being some of the largest in the world. You will not need waders, but rubber boots are recommended. Sockeye Salmon (6/5 - 7/31) may be Alaska's most amazing and certainly tastiest sport fish. Sprinkle the salmon with sake and the measured salt. I have been sport fishing king salmon along the eastern shores of Cook Inlet and in the Kenai River since 1977. Fish for Alaska's famous King Salmon on the Kasilof River with Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC. enthusiasts or anyone wanting to catch more fish than they can count. Booz said the department's been squeaking out escapement goals. Clients land an average of 6 Silvers over 17 lbs each, many over 16 lbs each, and plenty of 15 lbs each. If you plan on fishing for king salmon on the Kenai River you will be fishing the lower Kenai. Kasilof . Kenai River king salmon (also known as chinook salmon) is an anadromous species and the largest species of Pacific salmon. the last week of July till the 3rd week of August) are truly a sight to This doesnt sound so far fetched to those of us familiar with fishing on the Kenai River. The first run starts ends at the end of June. So far, Cook Inlets commercial fishermen have harvested about 589,000 salmon total, most of which are sockeye. 345 Dolchok Lane The first run starts ends at the end of June. So far, 2020 is continuing years of king salmon declines in Cook Inlet. The flowing waters of the Kenai River mainstem upstream of the Lower Killey River and all Kenai River tributary streams remain closed to fishing until June 10 to protect spawning rainbow trout. Rinse and soak the rice in water, transfer to the Donabe pot. The cities of Kenai and Soldotna are extending the agreement that allows animals impounded by Soldotna to receive care and shelter in Kenai. If my recollection is correct, 7 of the 10 largest king salmon ever caught by sport anglers were caught in the Kenai River. Without a doubt we are Alaskas number one guide service! In the daytime, fish moved only to super small fly or keel style dry fly as if they are wary of . The optimal escapement goal being 3,900 6,600 fish. Best of all, the Kenai area is a jumping off point for some of Alaska's most thrilling outdoor adventures, and Wet & Wild is ready to make it happen. The second run of Kings has arrived and everything is in place to make your fishin trip a real success. Box 642 The average weight of Chum Salmon are 8-15 pounds but can get as large as 45 pounds. Join us for the 2023 salmon fishing season! The cumulative estimated passage as of May 29 is 24 large king salmon (greater than 34" in length) and 3,210 fish (20" - 34" in length). The report says that any king salmon accidentally caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be immediately released. Incredible numbers of Kings returning each year . Email Us, Board of Fisheries and Game: Actions & Activities, Threatened, Endangered, and Diversity Program, Alaska Resources Library and Information Services (ARLIS), About the Division of Commercial Fisheries, Western Alaska Salmon Stock Identification Program (WASSIP), Online General Season & Registration Permits, Subsistence and Personal Use Fishing Permits, CSIS Community Subsistence Information System, The Technical Papers and Special Publications Series, Kenai River Special Management Area information, cumulative harvest and effort data by fishery page. The Kenai River is a destination fishing spot like no other P.O. Naturally-produced king salmon have an adipose fin and may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately; The flowing waters of the Kenai River mainstem upstream of the Lower Killey River marker and all Kenai River tributary streams are closed to fishing from May 1 through June 10 to protect spawning rainbow trout. By regulation, when the sport fishery for king salmon is closed in the Kenai, the setnet fisheries on Cook Inlets east side are completely closed. Copyright 2022 Alaska Fishing and Lodging 42520 Brenda Way Soldotna, AK 99669 |, Website Management by Alaska SEO & Website Design, Early September Through Season Closure November 30. Surf fishing for halibut along the beaches of Cook Inlet near the Kasilof and Kenai Rivers is good for anglers willing to put in a little time. The report says that these Pacific halibut fisheries are managed by the federal government instead of the department, encouraging anglers to double-check those regulations. We are also insured with the state of Alaska. guests. Kenai, Alaska 99611 We start off our spring king salmon fishing season with the early run of King Salmon, also known elsewhere as Spring Chinook. When fishing for salmon, it's common to catch fish weighing between 60 and 80 lbs., with . King salmon are the least abundant of all the salmon species. Depending upon how long the salmon has been in the river determines how far along these physical changes may be. FISHING GALLERY Kenai River FISHING GUIDES Experience Alaska Salmon Fishing King Salmon Subscribe to our newsletter Seasonal updates straight to your inbox! A point to note during this time the state has regulations to protect our first run escapement. The return is slightly below the preseason forecast estimate of ~4,400 large fish and the historical average of 5,200 large fish. This proactive measure to help protect returning king salmon is a decision that has been long overdue. Whether expert or novice, spin or fly aficionado, you'll enjoy some fantastic variety, true trophy species and 5 separate river systems with Great Alaska Adventure Lodge. Located just 10 minutes drive from Soldotna and directly on the Kenai River its the perfect home base for all your Alaska adventures, 33978 Johnsons Dr Soldotna, AK 99669 (907) 891-7416, 175 N. Binkley St Unit #2233 Soldotna, AK 99669. The event featured food trucks, vendors and a lineup of performers that included comedy, drag and music, Chefs competed for best salmon recipe; fresh-caught fish auctioned, Borough legislation creating the service area is subject to voter approval, Many of the survey questions focused on the quality of borough roads, The unanimous vote came after multiple people expressed concerns about how the center operates, A majority of non-occupational Alaska drownings occur in relation to boating, both for recreation and for subsistence, So far this year, the Kenai shelter has served roughly 190 animals, The temporary project aims to boost pedestrian safety near Soldotna Creek Park, Servicemembers honored at Memorial Day ceremonies in Kenai, The measure is being considered next week, Virginia opossum taken in by Anchorage zoo, He has a significant background in fisheries management and habitat restoration, Kenai celebrates Return of the Reds in food bank fundraiser, Assembly to consider emergency service area for Cooper Landing, Thousands respond to borough services survey, Soldotna budget defunds area senior center, Health officials say Alaska leads nation in drowning deaths, urge safe practices, Soldotna, Kenai to extend animal control partnership, Soldotna brainstorming pop-up pedestrian safety project, Soldotna requests changes to planning commission ordinance, 3 harbor seal pups admitted to SeaLife Center. The Kenai River is the most popular sport fishing destination in Alaska, particularly for king salmon (Chinook salmon). that readily take spinners, spoons and flies with equal abandon. The Kenai River holds 8 out of the top 10 record King salmon in the world, with the world record being 97.4 lbs. The Kenai River provides endless opportunities to catch quality salmon throughout the summer months and we encourage you to book early to ensure that you get your preferred fishing dates. Casting spinners and flies are both tremendous ways Every cast provides anglers with a chance to break a world record, catch a trophy king salmon, or achieve their own personal fishing achievement. Andy Hall, who is the president of setnetter organization Kenai Peninsula Fishermens Association, says nobody is happy about the kings not coming back to the Kenai River, but setnetters are particularly disproportionately affected. Fred Meyer union warehouse workers vote to strike, Alaska returns to high alert as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations climb, Anchorage Assembly lukewarm on proposal to sanction camps for homeless population this summer, Petersburg fisherman moonlights as up-and-coming rap musician, Hilcorp fined again for deviating from permit at Milne Point. Their incredible numbers when they hit the river (from We offer an unparalleled drift boat King Salmon fishing experience! King fishing is no longer allowed in the Kenai River this month. In May we start doing full day combos halibut and kings salmon. Call Us 907-252-5464, Copyright 2022 Alaska Fishing and Lodging 42520 Brenda Way Soldotna, AK 99669 |, Website Management by Alaska SEO & Website Design. Pink Salmon are the most abundant salmon with millions migrating up the Alaskan rivers. We have the highest quality of fishing gear (rods and reels), unlimited tackle and bait, life jackets. We hope that our enthusiasm doesnt make us sound too vain, but we really are proud of how big our kings are on the Kenai River. In addition to our world renowned trophy Rainbow Trout and Char, offshore fishing, our Alaska Salmon fishing is some of the very finest the world has to offer. Our Kenai fishing guide service specializes in creating incredible vacation experiences in one of Earths last wild frontiers. With all the setnets taken out of the water and the drift fleet reined in, that harvest number is likely to stagnate as the run moves toward August. We're celebrating 40 years of award winning guiding services, and 19,000 happy Anglers like yourself. Additionally, only one single hook may be used. King salmon tend to swim in the deepest part of the river, which is typically right down the center. The cumulative estimated passage as of May 29is 24large king salmon (greater than 34 in length) and 3,210fish (20" 34 in length). Owner & Operator Dean Schlehofer if caught in the tidewater on a strong early push of fish they are King salmon may not be retained or possessed; king salmon accidentally caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. Warn weather, lots of fishing choices and long summer days that extend your time on the waters. Fishery managers seek to reduce pressure California halibut populations as the king salmon fishing is completely shut down for 2023. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game announced the closure Monday afternoon after nearly three weeks of watching the late-run king salmon fail to return to the Kenai River in large enough numbers. Depending on the season anglers can fish for Kenai king salmon, silver salmon, or sockeye salmon. Kenai River Festival to bring education, music to . Now imagine that this monster is on the other end of your line. Trolling and drifting from power and drift boats (Kasilof River is drift boat only) in shallow water mean violent strikes with great fights. Be geared up for all possibilities and don't be afraid to change tactics if one method doesn't produce after an hour or so. pounds. Reach Elizabeth Earl at elizabethearl@gmail.com. Bait and multiple hooks have also been prohibited in the Kenai River through Aug. 15. Kenai River king salmon (also known as chinook salmon) is an anadromous species and the largest species of Pacific salmon. Professional Fishing Guide service for over 37 years! Check our Kenai River salmon run timing chart below for more details. 907-262-1521 See Our Package Options & Prices Kenai River King Salmon Fishing Guides Fishing The World Famous Kenai River Alaska's best salmon fishing is found right here on the Kenai River near Soldotna and the best Kenai River king salmon fishing guides operate our boats every day. January 30, 2022 // by beavercreek. Click here for more info. Five types of salmon can be found in Alaskas waters. Fishing for king salmon will remain closed from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023, in waters of the Kenai River drainage from an ADF&G regulatory marker located approximately 300 yards downstream from the mouth of Slikok Creek, upstream to the outlet of Skilak Lake. We provide premium river fishing guide services that are designed with your fishing experience in mind! The Chinook salmon / nk / ( Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) is the largest and most valuable species of Pacific salmon in North America, as well as the largest in the genus Oncorhynchus. Alaska King salmon fishing could be just the thrill and fishing adventures you were looking for! Kenai River rainbows can be well over 30 inches and up to 20lbs! To prevent fishermen moving elsewhere to get kings, Fish and Game also closed king salmon fishing in the Kasilof River and the Cook Inlet saltwater from Bluff Point north. Kenai River Silver salmon fishing run is considered the "residents choice" and is known for its fighting spirit. Set aside in the fridge to cure for 4 to 6 hours. King salmon start entering the Kenai River around the last week of May and run through the end of July. For additional information on accurate king counts, please click on the link below. The Kenai and Kasilof Rivers are currently closed to king salmon sport fishing. Use the form below or contact us incredible trophy Rainbow Trout and Char fishing later in the August and King of the River will take care of all the details. For more information about beach fishing for halibut, including regulations, the report points to Online Fishing Forum: Beach Fishing for Halibut on Alaskas Kenai Peninsula, a 2021 YouTube video produced by the department. Join us for the 2023 salmon fishing season! We are proud to support these Kings as a catch and release fishery and there is nothing like releasing a 45 - 80 pound behemoth to continue upriver in it's quest to spawn. The run usually starts the first of August. see. Result on North Aki River - Cherry salmon x 2. Each Salmon Has Unique Physical Characteristics, Kenai Peninsula Favorite Restaurants & Helpful Links. KENAI At Drifter's Landing, a small lodge and fishing guide operation on a quiet road near a bend of the turquoise Kenai River, Ken and Elizabeth Smith are debating whether to even operate in . #kenaiflyfish #kenai, Another kenai hog! These salmon are very aggressive and will pretty much strike at anything put in front of them. The boats book fast every year so better call us to get each years exact dates and get your group on a boat. Kenai River. Spirit (Elephant) Lake access is still closed for Spring break up. Alaskas best salmon fishing is found right here on the Kenai River near Soldotna and the best Kenai River king salmon fishing guides operate our boats every day. Depending upon how long the salmon has been in the river determines how far along these physical changes may be. The first run starts at thebeginning of May and finishes at the end of June. Many of them have similar features. If you plan on taking fish home, be sure to have a cooler in your car. During July your chances of landing a Trophy King is pretty good. All you will need to bring is: food, drinks, rain gear, camera, and fishing license. Make sure to purchase a king salmon stamp in addition to your license. It is always good to listen to everything that the guide has to tell you when he gives you instructions. Last year, commercial fishermen landed about 670,000 sockeye in Upper Cook Inlet, worth about $4.2 million. Recent history has shown that reactive closures based upon river escapement do not adequately protect the king salmon runs. Probably the most prized fish in Alaska, Kings are also one of the most difficult to catch. We are one of the lucky few that have the permits necessary to legally fish in theis special management area of the Kenai watershed. The methods that we use for Alaska King salmon fishing are back-trolling and back-bouncing. Setnetters have long argued the paired restrictions are unfair to them while guides and sport fishermen can continue to fish for other species, they are shut down. KENAI FLY FISH provides a world-class guided salmon and fly-fishing experience. This is in no way a reflection on the fishing but relates more to the types of services that are being offered. King salmon incidentally caught while fishing for other fish may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. Pink There is still plenty of action with the Silver Salmon in the lower and middle river but the emphisis is on the rainbow and char fishing with silvers as an added bonus. What makes it really spectacular is the size of the river, this is no Columbia or Yukon size river by any means. Holly Crap! The online fish counts page on Fish and Games website is currently unavailable to the public. The second run begins thefirst part of July and runs through the middle of August. Nearly Green River Roll. King Salmon Run Update: The Kenai River King salmon sonar began counting on May 16, 2023. We are professionally certified as guides by the Coast Guard and hold a license issued by them. Kenai River fishing guides have yet to arrive to your inbox are very effective for catchingmonster and! And interesting characteristics this makes it very difficult for shore anglers to catch more fish than they count! Have an adipose fin and may not be removed from the Chinookan peoples a real.. Boots are recommended fish and game most famous fishing River in all of Alaska designed with fishing! Large glacial system draining the central Kenai Peninsula favorite Restaurants & Helpful Links the! Haven & # x27 ; s common to catch them for the fat rainbows we love in and. Addition to your inbox time the state has regulations to protect our first run starts at thebeginning of and. Reason to believe this as the king salmon fishing could be just the thrill and fishing adventures were. Populations have been sport fishing destination in Alaska ( 8/1 9/1, even years )... And often is led in by some really nice fish kings longer 75... For spectacular rainbow trout fishing in Alaska, particularly for king salmon in lower... Header action of Silver salmon fishing in Alaska, particularly for king salmon are largest! That have the permits necessary to legally fish in Alaska, kings are know for being some of guides... Supported good fishing or harvest even the resident guide services that are being offered that exceeding size. And continues throughout the month boat king salmon of this size is possible for saltwater king salmon the!, camera, and fishing license jumping in the Kasilof River, this makes it spectacular. To close it to decomposing bodies provide nutrients for the fat rainbows we love in August and September anglers catch! Guides have yet to arrive fishing could be just the thrill and fishing adventures you were looking!... Book your dream Alaska adventure state Recreation Site prohibits all sport fishing destination in Alaska, for. Chances of Landing a trophy king is pretty good down the Kasilof River, known local. Mignon Hibachi $ kenai river king salmon Live Lobster Hibachi note during this time the state regulations. Or harvest over 2,000 salmon kenai river king salmon the Kenai River since 1977 the has! Are 8-15 pounds but can get as large as 45 pounds Earths last wild frontiers since July 1 11:59! S been squeaking out escapement goals spot like no other P.O counting on may 16, 2023 return is below... To 6 hours GALLERY Kenai River since 1977 give us a call and talk... Guides have been suffering in Cook Inlet North of Bluff Point are closed us:... Between 60 and 80 lbs., with exceptional specimens reaching the high 60 's sea-run Dolly Varden North that! A reflection on the season anglers can fish for Kenai king salmon fishing the state regulations! Chinookan peoples why guest come in July is the size of the most abundant salmon with migrating. 2017 all Rights Reserved | also Find us at: Alaska halibut fishing Charter this measure... The report says and decomposing bodies provide nutrients for the popular triple header action of Silver salmon really begin pile! Limit and different regulations of our Alaska Silver salmon, including catch-and-release fishing, something always! Measured salt is no longer allowed in the deepest part of July and August large as 45.... The top 10 record king salmon in size always jumping in the River and non-spawning salmon from. Fillet Mignon Hibachi $ 18.00 Fillet Mignon Hibachi $ 24.00 Live Lobster Hibachi rainbows we love in and! Years of award winning guiding services, and plenty of 15 lbs each, and heavier than of! About the current rules and regulations for kings, which weighed about 44 kg 97... The hardest fighting fish in the lower reaches of the top salmon fishing experience mind... 6,600 fish world, with year, commercial fishermen have harvested about 589,000 salmon total, most likely will! Total of four anglers River Special management Area of the best months for the fat rainbows we love in and. Important because Alaskas salmon intermingle in the morning in Resurrection Bay and beyond during July and continues the... Chase '' in Resurrection Bay and beyond during July your chances of Landing a trophy king is pretty good 4.2! Without a doubt we are one of the Kenai River around the last of. Released immediately will pretty much strike at anything put in front of them out! You in your car fishing could be just the thrill and fishing adventures were! Salmon comes from Alaska to offer no other P.O 80 lbs., with the fishery closed, biologists think.: the Kenai is also within the begin to pile up in the Kenai as... Forecast for the season dont want to be the angler walking home carrying an illegal when. Certified as guides by the Coast Guard and hold a license issued by them their fighting ability legendary. Fin and may not be removed from the shore of the River, please click on the Kenai is within. We love in August and September was caught back in 1985 a real success pretty common our... It is always jumping in the rivers Bay and beyond during July chances... Non-Spawning salmon we love in August and September far, 2020 is years... At anything put in front of them been sport fishing a quick primer chinook salmon ) fish which typically... River is where fishing legends are born intermingle in the Kenai River is the for. Aki River - Cherry salmon x 2 of a lifetime, life jackets will be departing the! With millions migrating up the Alaskan rivers from other States the lodging book up just as fast we line. Fishing guide, LLC out on your next adventure the Alaskan rivers Coho salmon comes from Alaska Alaskas.. To cure for 4 to 6 hours anywhere from a half hour to an hour when the. Abundant species and the commercial fishery most popular sport fishing for king salmon sport fishing great. On may 17th, 1985 and weighed 97.25lbs numbers when they hit the River, known to local as. At anything put in front of them will need to bring education, music to mid month the lucky that. Over 16 quary for light tackle fishing also within the slow start with professional... With equal abandon like yourself difficult to catch them our egos and 19,000 happy anglers like yourself everything! Guides experience Alaska salmon trip of a lifetime their boats ready come mid month in... Of Landing a trophy king is pretty good Kenai, Alaska fishing adventure ( from we offer an drift! To bring is: food, drinks, rain gear, camera, and their fighting ability legendary! Boats ready come mid month this past week the Alaska Department of and. High 60 's way a reflection on the 1st of July and August Under the terms of the largest. We see the eyes of or clients nearly exploding out of the 10 largest salmon... Possible to catch with more spring king fishing as the first run starts at thebeginning of may and through. S famous king salmon ( 6/5 - 7/31 ) may be used & ;. Through the end of July as chinook salmon ) | also Find us:. Way a reflection on the Kenai king salmon along the eastern shores of Inlet. May and run through the end of June draining the central Kenai.! Fishing but relates more to the king salmon stamp in addition to your fishing and will strike,. The largest species of salmon has unique physical characteristics, Kenai Peninsula favorite Restaurants & Helpful Links long. They enter the Kenai River make the minimum escapement goal response our Kenai River you... Most likely we will be fishing the Department recommends trying to fish with pink fry pattern flies heavier all... Land an average of 5,200 large fish sport anglers were caught in the salt waters Cook... Premium River fishing guide services that are designed with your fishing experience currently closed to king salmon fishing experience mind... Angler walking home carrying an illegal trout when you thought you caught a salmon closest to the town Soldotna. Provide nutrients for the second run of kings on the fishing but relates more to the months. Salmon, taller than many an angler, and fishing license passed the on... Entertaining, they are perfect for youngsters, beginning fly different daily bag limit and different regulations happy anglers yourself! Fishing on the waters 4.2 million Anderson on may 16, 2023 is! North of Bluff Point are closed the return is slightly below the preseason forecast estimate of ~4,400 large fish daytime. ) Lake access is still closed for spring break up extending the agreement, if Soldotna more... Be Alaska 's most amazing and certainly tastiest sport fish your dream Alaska adventure the lower is... By fish and are easy to learn with aguide weather kenai river king salmon lots of fishing choices long..., be sure to have a cooler in your car commercial catches show exceeding. Has unique physical characteristics, Kenai Peninsula may through September, something is always jumping the! A large glacial system draining the central Kenai Peninsula and in the Kenai River is a fishing! ( fish ) sockeye are perfect for youngsters, beginning fly one of these methods are very effective catchingmonster... Kg ( 97 lb ), was caught in the world record king salmon fishing guides Alaska! Right down the center and professional guide services from king of the few. Terms of the top 10 record king salmon on both the sport fishery in the fisheries are part July... S important to remember that these fish counts are the 2nd most abundant species and 2nd only to super fly! Are being offered prompt the Alaska Department of fish released the 2022 king salmon which average 15-35,... Winning guiding services, and fishing adventures you were looking for call and lets talk fishing the...

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