The Kenai River in southcentral Alaska is world-famous for producing some of the largest Chinook (King) salmon on Earth. The state record—a staggering 97-pounder—was caught right here. Every year, from late May through July, these beasts make their way upriver from Cook Inlet, offering a limited but legendary opportunity for anglers with grit, patience, and the right game plan.
Important Update for 2025: Kenai River King Salmon Closure
However, due to declining King salmon populations, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) has announced that all King salmon fishing on the Kenai River is closed for the 2025 season. This includes both the early and late runs, and applies to all fishing methods, including catch-and-release. The closure is in place to protect the struggling King salmon stocks and ensure the future of this iconic fishery.
Alternative Fishing Opportunities
While the Kenai River is off-limits for King salmon this year, there are still excellent fishing opportunities in the region:
- Kasilof River: Located just 15 miles south of Soldotna, the Kasilof River remains open for King salmon fishing, with certain restrictions. Anglers are limited to using single, unbaited hooks, and only hatchery-produced King salmon (identifiable by a missing adipose fin) may be retained. Wild King salmon must be released immediately and cannot be removed from the water.
- Sockeye and Silver Salmon: The Kenai River is expecting strong runs of Sockeye salmon, with forecasts predicting a return of 3.4 million fish. Silver salmon runs are also anticipated to be robust, providing anglers with exciting alternatives to King salmon fishing.
Tactics from a Veteran
Keep it slow. These Kings don’t chase—they ambush. Get your bait or plug down and in their face, and keep it there. Your rod should load up like a tree limb in a snowstorm. When it does, don’t panic. Keep steady pressure and let the fish run. You’re not fighting a trout—this is a diesel engine with fins. And remember: this fishery is managed for sustainability. Respect the slot limits, mind your retention days, and practice clean catch-and-release if you’re letting one go. These fish are a gift, and we’re lucky to share their journey.
The Kenai Magic
Whether it’s your first time on the Kenai or your fiftieth, every pull of the oar brings fresh hope. There’s something sacred about these waters—the misty mornings, the cry of bald eagles, the flash of silver beneath the green. It’s not just about the fish. It’s about the chase, the wild, and the stories you’ll tell for the rest of your life.
This post may contain AI generated content. It has been reviewed by a real person but may not be 100% accurate.
