Alaska Salmon Fishing

When folks think of Alaska salmon fishing, they envision battling chrome wild salmon on a majestic river with mountains framing the backdrop. The guides of Alaska Drift Away Fishing are here to help make that vision come to life! The Kenai and Kasilof Rivers, located on the Kenai Peninsula, are world-class waters that host four out of five species of salmon.

Alaska Salmon Fishing on the Kenai & Kasilof Rivers

YOU, the angler, and YOUR Alaska salmon fishing trip is our top priority. Whether hunting first-run king salmon on the Kasilof river, filling the freezer with red salmon, or fly fishing silvers on the turquoise water of the Kenai, we have you covered.

We offer 4, 6, and 8-hour fishing day trips as well as pre-made and customized combo fishing and lodging packages. So you get to experience Alaska salmon fishing your way.

Salmon fishing on the kenai and kasilof rivers
fishing flourish

Alaska Salmon Fishing Trips

We customize your Alaska salmon fishing trip according to the time of year and the salmon species you want to target. Each month offers a different species of salmon, and each species offers a different technique and experience. It is very important to book early and secure your spot during the peak of the run to maximize your fishing potential.

Kasilof King Salmon Fishing

King Salmon Fishing on the Kasilof River

Catching an Alaska King Salmon, the world’s largest salmon, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Season:
May 20th – June 25th

Peak:
June 5th – June 15th

Average Size:
10-20 lbs

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red salmon

Kenai & Kasilof River Red Salmon Fishing

Alaska Red salmon are a hard-fighting fish, lots of fun to catch, and are sought after for their rich, tasty meat.

Season:
June 25th – August 5th

Peak:
July 15th – August 1st

Average Size:
7-12 lbs

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silver salmon

Silver Salmon Fishing on the Kenai River

Because of their strength and aggression, we believe Alaska silver salmon is one of the most rewarding fish to catch.

Season:
August 10th – October 15th

Peaks:
August 15th – August 25th
September 15th – October 15th

Average Size:
10-14 lbs

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Alaska Salmon Fishing Season

Check out our Alaska salmon fishing calendar to help give you a time frame for the peak season of your desired species. Not sure what you want to target? No problem – we love talking about fishing, so give us a call.

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Alaska King Salmon Fishing

Alaska Salmon Fishing FAQs

Where is the best salmon fishing in Alaska?

The Kenai and Kasilof rivers offer some of the best salmon fishing in the world and are accessible by car via Anchorage. You can catch four of the five species of salmon on the Kenai Peninsula. Fly into Anchorage, rent a car, and drive three hours to our location in Soldotna.

What time of year do the salmon run in Alaska?

Salmon start running up the rivers in Alaska by early May and can run through early winter. The peak of salmon entering the rivers in Alaska is June – October. There are five species of salmon that enter specific rivers at specific times, so it is very beneficial to have a guide help you find and catch these salmon. On the Kenai and Kasilof rivers, you can catch salmon from late May thru the end of October annually.

What is the best time to go salmon fishing in Alaska?

The best time to go salmon fishing in Alaska is dependent on where you are fishing and what species you are targeting. The Kenai River is awesome because it has fishable numbers of salmon for most of the summer months! Check out our salmon page and see peak dates.

How do you catch salmon on the Kenai River?

There are many ways to catch salmon on the Kenai River. You can fish from a boat on the river or from shore at any of the public state or federal parks. People cast for salmon with fly or spinning gear. Anglers also troll and drift the river. You can use flies, spinners, crankbaits, bait, etc., depending on what part of the river you are on and current regulations. There are areas where regulations are more strict on what gear you are using so make sure to know the rules for where you are fishing.

What do you wear to salmon fish in Alaska?

When salmon fishing in Alaska you are going to want to have layers of clothing, rain gear, and ideally waterproof boots. Make sure to avoid cotton layers. Bring a backpack with extra layers in case you get wet or cold. When salmon fishing it is also a great idea to have eye protection or sunglasses. Bring a winter hat and gloves for those cold spring or fall mornings.

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