Seafood that pulls like a string of mules.
Kenai River Sockeye Salmon fishing trips.
Each year anglers from around the world travel to the Kenai River to fish for the world-famous sockeye salmon with our experienced fishing guides. Commonly referred to as “red” salmon, Sockeyes average between 7 and 12 pounds. Sockeye are one of the most favored table fair of all the Alaskan salmon species. There are two distinct runs of sockeye salmon each summer. One in June and the second in July. Our guides been actively pursuing sockeye salmon on the Kenai River for over a decade.
Throughout the years, our sockeye salmon fishing guides have fine-tuned the very best ways to chase these fish in nearly any water conditions. Come join us for a guided Kenai River sockeye salmon fishing trip this summer!
Kenai River Sockeye Salmon Fishing Quick Facts:
There are 3 sections of the Kenai to fish well as some other smaller tributaries.
Guided salmon fishing is typically harvest oriented.
Kenai River Sockeye Salmon average 6-12 lbs. depending on location.
Most of our Kenai River Sockeye Salmon fishing trips start in Sterling, or Soldotna, or Cooper Landing
3/4 day trips are 6 hours, Half day trips are 4 hours
Even if we are booked full, we will help find you the perfect guide for you
Lodging packages are available
SOCKEYE SALMON FISHING TRIP RATES
Private Boat Rates (includes 3 anglers)
$700 - Half Day Private Boat
$850 - 3/4 Day Private Boat Rate
Rates Per Person
$250 - Half Day (4 hours)
$300 - 3/4 Day (6 hours)
Half and 3/4 Day charters available during Sockeye Salmon season only.
Kenai River Sockeye Salmon fishing information
Sockeye, or “red,” salmon are some of the best eating salmon and typically show up in large sustainable numbers. Sockeye salmon give anglers ample opportunity at filling the freezer responsibly.
June 11 marks the opener for salmon on the upper Kenai and fishing remains productive through early July. The first run of sockeye salmon enter the Kenai in June, heading towards the Russian River. Anglers looking for sockeye this time of year will need to fish on the Upper Kenai river, near the town of Cooper Landing.
The second run of Kenai River sockeye salmon typically enters the river around mid-July. Fishing typically remains strong through the end of July, sometimes even stretching into early August.
Sockeye Salmon fishing techniques
There are two ways that anglers target sockeye salmon. Because sockeye swim near the shorline, anglers need to to fish very close to the bank. Targeting salmon as they swim by. Anglers should either bring waders, or purchase a pair of hip boots to be fully prepared to bank fish for red salmon on the Kenai. Sockeyes run up the Kenai on both sides of the river, typically right next to the bank. New fish show up all the time and fishing typically comes and goes in waves. Your Kenai River salmon fishing guide will contact you before the trip to discuss all the details.
The second method involves a technique called back trolling. Here guided anglers troll lures near Skilak Lake where the sockeye are known to attack plugs with vigor. Anglers should plan on starting their trip early, as sockeye salmon are often the most active in the low light of the morning hours. Sockeye are some of the most hard fighting salmon pound for pound in the Kenai.
How do I book a guided fishing trip for Sockeye Salmon
The first thing you should do when thinking about booking a guided fishing trip is to have a good grasp of exactly what kind of experience you are looking for. Here area some considerations you should be thinking about before calling to book a trip.
How big is your group size?
How many days of fishing are you looking for?
What date range are you going to be available to fish?
Do you want to harvest fish to bring home?
Fly fishing or conventional tackle?
Do you need lodging as well?
Once you have a good grasp on your trip specifics, email, text, or call us at the contact info below. We will get back with you as soon as we can and get you set up with your guide. If we are booked already, we will assist you in connecting with another guide who will fit your style. An initial 50% deposit is required to hold your trip dates. Checks, cash, and credit cards are accepted. Also please review our booking and cancellation policies here.