The Kenai River is where it’s at. The Kenai River is divided into 3 main sections; Upper, Middle, & Lower. Each section offers it’s own uniqueness, challenges, and fishing opportunities. Us locals then separate the Upper section into 2 parts; The “Upper-Upper” and the “Canyon.” Because each section of the Kenai River offers a variety of fishing and recreational opportunities we have broken down the sections of the river below for more detail.
This is truly the most pristine and majestic part of the Kenai River system. Simply put, it all begins here. The massive glacial lake, Kenai Lake, provides a steady flow of water for the Kenai River. From here the upper Kenai River runs seventeen miles downstream through the drift-only upper Kenai River area before entering into another massive glacial lake called Skilak Lake. The entire upper Kenai is a primal spawning ground for the millions of salmon that call this magical river home. Offering some of the best fly-fishing for trout in the world, it is the perfect section of river for the newbies or experts to experience Alaska trout fishing for the first time.
The towering peaks of the Kenai Mountains surround the upper Kenai and you will soon see why this is one of the most breath-taking displays of Alaskan beauty in the area. Fishing begins in this section of river in June and continues through the end of October. We fish and float this section of river on drift boats or rafts with a maximum of four anglers per boat.
This section of river is offered on a limited-trip and add-on basis. If you would like to float and/or fish this section of river please contact us to discuss details and booking.
The Kenai River Canyon is a challenging part of river that contains narrow, whitewater canyon sections up to Class III+ (depending on CFS). The river makes a quick decent into a glacial lake called Skilak Lake, and this is the most remote section of the entire river system.
This “middle” section of the Kenai begins its long journey to Cook Inlet from Skilak Lake. This very wide, and deep section of the river winds slowly downstream before it reaches a narrow gorge called Naptown Rapids.
Fish average 18 inches and fish in the 26-30 plus inch class are seen regularly. More Rainbow Trout in the 12-18 pound class have been caught and released in this section of river over the last 10 years than any river in the world.
This is primarily a boat-access fishery and is recommended for experienced anglers searching for their fish of a lifetime, or anglers wanting to get out of the crowded public fishing areas. This area holds some of the worlds largest Rainbow Trout ever recorded. Maximum of four anglers per boat.
*Please note that Middle Kenai River trips may be delayed or cancelled due to the unpredictable weather on Skilak Lake.
This section of river is home to world-record King salmon, and offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both beginners and expert anglers. With water currents ranging from fast moving to meandering, this is beautiful section of river for those looking for easy accessibility from Soldotna, Sterling, or Kenai.
A popular fishery on the lower Kenai is Sockeye “Red” Salmon for it’s hard-hitting, and high-flying acrobatics reminiscent of Silver Salmon. The shear number of Sockeye that run though the Kenai make for fun fishing for anglers of all ages and all skill levels.
What follows is a general flow of events. Expect the unexpected and prepare to be flexible.
Meet your guide for a pre-trip meeting at the river or designated meeting location and time. We will inspect gear and setup your gear for the species we’re targeting.
Depending on the actual trip you’re on, we’ll begin on our trip on a boat, or we’ll hike-in to begin fishing. Fish move and so will we. We’ll fish up and down the river sight fishing and trying different combinations of attractants. Your guide will provide advice/instruction on techniques and strategies, as well as help you swap out gear for the most productive fishing. Most importantly the goal for the trip is to have a great time!
Don’t worry if you’ve never fished before, we’ll teach you how and show you the ropes. We guide for complete beginners to seasoned pros, and we’ll provide as much help and instruction as you like.
The map shows where the pre-trip meeting point is located for each section of river, along with driving directions from Anchorage.
Feel free to call us any time for assistance with directions, travel information, lodging & dining suggestions, or anything else to help make your trip a great one!
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