What are the main differences between the Kenai River and the Kasilof River?
Size
The average size of the Salmon are bigger on the Kenai River, although there are still some massive Salmon caught on the Kasilof River.
Limits
In May and June King Salmon fishing has a size limit of 36” on the Kenai River, while on the Kasilof River you’re allowed to retain 2 haterchy King Salmon per person.
Timing
The Salmon runs seem to hit the Kasilof River a bit earlier than the Kenai River. The specific dates are listed in the question above.
Boat
On the Kenai River we use power boats and on the Kasilof River it is drift boat only. This makes the Kasilof River a little more relaxing and scenic as we drift a large portion of the river while we fish.
What fish should I fish for while I’m in Alaska?
Kenai River
- King Salmon — May 20th – July 31st
- Red Salmon — June 25th – August 10th
- Silver Salmon — August 1st – September 30th
- Rainbow Trout — August 1st – September 30th
Kasilof River
- King Salmon — May 20th – July 15th
- Red Salmon — June 15th – July 15th
Salt Water
- Halibut — May 1st – September 30th
How do we get to you?
At this time we don’t provide any sort of transportation to and from our guided fishing trips, which means it is your responsibility to meet us at the boat launch. Most people fly into Anchorage, rent a car and travel down to Soldotna/Kenai to spend a few days there.
Where do we meet?
There will be a location sent in your confirmation email as well as your reminder email about where to meet depending on the type of fishing you are doing. We have listed them out below as well;
- Kenai River Salmon Fishing – Eagle Rock Boat Launch; Kenai, Alaska
- Kenai River Trout Fishing – Bing’s Landing; Sterling, Alaska
- Kasilof River Salmon Fishing – Kasilof River Bridge Boat Launch; Kasilof, Alaska
What do we need to bring with us on the trip?
What do we need to bring with us on the trip? You will receive a confirmation email after you book and a reminder email 2 days before your trip that has a list of what you need to bring on the fishing charter. We have listed the main ones below as well;
- Fishing License (with King Stamp if King Salmon Fishing)
- Warm Clothes
- Snacks
- Camera to take lots of pictures
Where do I get my Fishing License and King Stamp?
You can purchase them online by clicking “Here” or most convenience / Tackle stores in Alaska have them on hand.
What do I do with the fish I have caught?
At the end of your trip your guide will fillet your fish for you. If you wish to have your fish vacuum sealed, flash frozen, and/or shipped home then “Custom Seafood Processors” is where we recommend taking your fillets. You can reach them at 907-262-9691. They are located at 35722 Kenai Spur Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669, which is about a 5 minute drive from the Eagle Rock Boat Launch.
Are there restrooms?
Yes, we try to take a restroom break every 2-3 hours. If you have to use the restroom just ask your guide and they will take care of you.
What’s the best time to go fishing?
Overall none of the Salmon are feeding once they hit the freshwater, so there isn’t a specific time of the day that is best. We are just waiting for the fish to push past wherever we are fishing. However sometimes first thing in the morning we find King Salmon that have been holding in a hole over night. We have also found that Silver Salmon seem to be a little more sensitive to light so first thing in the morning as the sun rises seems to be a good time.