Fishing Kenai River Alaska

Gear up for trout and salmon fishing on the Kenai River

Also see Alaska trout fishing and Alaska steelhead fishing

fishing kenai river alaskaCovering 80 miles from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet, the Kenai River is one of the most popular areas in Alaska for fishing and is also one of the most plentiful with a diverse bounty of fish.  Fishing the Kenai River Alaska is truly an amazing experience.  Rainbow trout and four types of salmon, including red salmon, silver salmon and king salmon can all be found in the Kenai River. 

During peak fishing season, many Kenai River fishing spots can be crowded, but the abundance of fish in this well known area provide something for everyone.

The Kenai River has a history of yielding trophy size fish.  In fact, 9 of the top 10 trophy Alaskan king salmon were caught while fishing in the Kenai River. 

The largest recorded king was caught in 1985 and weighed in at just over 97 pounds.  A contest runs each year with $50,000 in award money to anyone who breaks the 1985 record while fishing in the Kenai River.  Anglers will have the best chance for catching trophy salmon when they use an experienced fishing guide.  A seasoned guide can help tourist anglers navigate the best fishing spots for each species.   

Kenai River Salmon Fishing Tip - Know The Salmon Runs

The Kenai River receives two distinct salmon runs per species each year.  For the first wave, sockeye salmon and king salmon run in May and June while silvers come during July and August.  For the second wave, kings and sockeyes return in July and August with silvers returning in September and October.  Knowing these runs will help your fishing in the Kenai River.  Generally, the second run contains more fish than the first.  The two king salmon runs combine to make the Kenai River one of the largest sport fisheries for this species in Alaska.  

Fishing Kenai River Alaska - Getting There

Only about 50 miles from Anchorage, the Kenai River can be reached by car and by air.  Travel by car is via the Seward Highway Scenic Byway, a beautiful drive with scenic vistas.  Several air taxi companies offer charters from Anchorage into the Kenai River area.

Weather For Fishing Kenai River Alaska

Weather varies depending where fishermen are located along the river, but generally the climate is comfortable and is especially so in the summer months.  The Kenai River area averages about 19 inches of rain per year.  Average temperatures in the summer are from the mid 60's to the high 40's.  Temperatures for winter months typically range from highs in the 20's and lows in the single digits.