Alaska's Angling Addiction - Kenai River Fishing Guides 2014 2014 Kenai River Fishing Guide | Page 30

Stats
The King Salmon has been the cornerstone of the Kenai River’s popularity for many years now. With fish topping out in the 90 pound range, it is easy to see why it is such a big draw. The vast majority of the King Salmon
fishing has been done on the Kenai River itself, but we tend to focus more of our efforts on the smaller and
“drift-only,” Kasilof River.
The Kasilof boasts both a native and hatchery run of King Salmon. This is especially important to anglers looking to harvest a King Salmon. In light of recent declines in run sizes, we are proudly catch and release for all
wild King Salmon, although we do allow the harvest of hatchery fish. We believe that this is absolutely necessary
to maintain the stock and return of Kings that we still have. Spreading the respect and excitement of catch and
release fishing to an angler that is not used to it is a practice we are proud to employ.

Fishing Methods
Starting in Late May, King Salmon begin their first run up the rivers. During this time there is little angling
pressure, and the water levels are low enough to try to land one on the fly rod. While we love the challenge of
a good fish hunt, these early season days are not for the faint of heart. Days have gone by without a bite. But
with a shot at fish up to 80 pounds, it is an effort that can pay dividends.
The vast majority of our King Salmon fishing is done by either backtrolling or back bouncing bait and plugs
down the glacial water of the Kasilof River. Conventional baitcasting and spincast gear is used while slowly
backing down the river, often turning into a epic battle with a fish that wants nothing to do with our net.

Peak Dates: EARLY/mid JUNE & MID JULY

NATIVE KINGS

KING SALMON
ALASKA’S ANGLING ADDICTION