Fishing The Kenai River In July
What species can I fish for during July on the Kenai River?
Rainbow Trout fishing on the Kenai River in July
There are only two things on a Kenai River rainbow trout’s mind in July; eggs and flesh. The influx of anglers chasing the Kenai’s salmon supplies the resident trout with a food supply unlike any other in the world. We call it the flesh hatch. As the thousands of anglers harvest and fillet sockeye and king salmon, the carcasses are tossed back into the river, thus providing an endless buffet of protein for the large trout of the Kenai River. Guided Kenai River fishing trips this time of year are almost exclusively done with the use of an indicator and/or float (for conventional anglers). Most successful anglers fish out of a boat, as the lower flows of spring are replaced with the higher glacial melt off as the summer moves on.
King Salmon fishing in July
July is absolutely the best time to land King salmon on the Kenai. The second, larger, push of kings into the Kenai enter the river in July. Anglers will find success all the way up until the season closes on July 31st.
Keep in mind, that with peak fishing comes peak fishing pressure. Anglers will see other boats fishing near them, though the fishing is still very cordial. With every push of the tide, ocean fresh Kings flood into the sections of the lower Kenai, some in excess of 80+ pounds.
King Salmon fishing on the Kasilof River
The smaller Kasilof river is also an outstanding option for July King salmon fishing. Even though the Kasilof River is smaller river in size, its fish average fish in July weighs around 20-35 lbs., with many reaching into the 50’s each year. There is nothing quite like a quiet, foggy morning guided drift boat fishing trip on the Kasilof.
Note***** The King Salmon runs in Alaska, and in the Kenai River in-particular, have seen a dramatic drop in the last decade. Over harvest (both sport and commercial) combined with current oceanic conditions has played a large role in the species decline. Double Haul practices a strict catch and release policy for all large, mature, native King salmon. The larger sized fish are not often the best eating, and throughout the year, we still find plenty of harvestable sized King Salmon on both rivers. All hatchery bred fish are open to harvesting.
Sockeye Salmon fishing in July
Mid-July is the peak of the largest run of sockeye salmon on the Kenai Peninsula. Historically, some time around the 16th of July, large pushes of sockeye salmon begin to enter the river. The Kenai River watershed supports a run of nearly one million sockeyes each summer. Sockeye salmon is excellent table fare and is a great species to harvest and enjoy.
Depending on the stage of the run, sockeyes are fished for using two different methods. The first is a flipping technique done from the bank, and the second is by back trolling out of a boat. Regardless of how you catch them, sockeyes are a great addition to all guided fishing trips on the Kenai River in July
Frequently asked questions about fishing in June
What is the weather like in July?
June fishing on the Kenai River is filled typically filled with pleasant temperatures and plenty of daylight. Temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s are common, with some years being much more rainier than others. It’s important that anglers traveling to the Kenai in June should pack in layers, and make sure they have good rain jacket handy just in case.
What kind of river conditions do you see in July?
The river conditions on the Kenai River are fairly stable during the month of July. Unlike other rivers in the lower 48, the Kenai River is heavily reliant on melting snow, and glaciers to fill its banks. Therefore, as the temperatures rise throughout the summer, the Kenai’s water volume usually follows suit.
The important thing to understand that you will see other travelers and anglers when fishing the Kenai River in July. It is the considered peak season, and travelers from around the world can be found fishing from the river banks throughout the month.
How do I book my trip in July?
Book your trip early for the best chance at prime dates. Reserve your seat calling, texting, or shooting us an e-mail today. Lodging packages are available.
Double Haul tries to keep customer service at the forefront of our guided fishing trips and often will not immediately answer calls during guided days. Please feel free to text or email anytime, as that is often the most reliable way to get a hold of us quickly. We will respond to your calls ASAP. Keep in mind, we can always help you find a Kenai River fishing guide even if we are already booked.
Thanks so much. We look forward to showing you how a professionally guided fishing trip should be.
Rates For Guided Fishing In July?
1 or 2 Anglers
$500 Half Day Boat Rate
$600 3/4 Day Boat Rate
$700 Full Day Boat Rate
3 Anglers Private Boat
$1000 Full Day Boat Rate
$700 Half Day Private Rate