The Kenai River is located in the south-central part of Alaska in the region of the Kenai Peninsula. It's one of the best rivers in Alaska to go fishing because it's a spawning ground for many large king salmon. A strong and long rod should be used for the best success. Another thing that is needed is the correct bait such as cured salmon roe or eggs. You also need a fishing license when fishing in Kenai. A special stamp and a harvest record are required for king salmon fishing.
Kenai River
The Kenai River and surrounding areas are popular for catching king fish because of their large size, which is often 50 pounds. King, silver, red and pink salmon can be found in the Kenai River. The Kenai River runs to the outlet at Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake and on to Cook Inlet at the town of Kenai. A lake stocking program is managed on the Kenai Peninsula by the Division of Sport Fish of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This ensures there's a continuous supply of fish. These lakes are filled with fish such as arctic grayling, Dolly Varden and rainbow trout.
Rods
Rods come in different weights. The higher the number, the heavier the rod is. A strong rod with a weight of of 9 or 10 is best for big fish such as king salmon because it will not break as easily as 8-or-under weight rod. The line size or weight number should be the same number as the rod weight. The length of the rod should ideally be anywhere from 8 to 10 feet. Longer rods make it easier to cast and have more power to catch big fish such as king salmon. Using a long rod will decrease stress on your line and the hook.
Bait
The chances of catching king salmon or other large fish are increased if you use the correct type of bait. Cured salmon roe or eggs rigged with a little orange plastic above the hook is an effective bait. Back troll by keeping the boat in the current. Many times salmon, rainbow trout or Dolly Varden dive down against the way the river flows. Baits and plugs can be back trolled, but make sure you're following Alaska bait regulations.
King Salmon Regulations
Fishing season for king salmon on the Kenai River begins on May 15. This is the beginning of the early run, which ends June 30. The late run for king fishing is the first of July to the end of the season, which is July 31. Some of the regulations for this river include one fish per day and two per year. A single hook and bait is required. There's also an early run and a late run for king fishing on the Kasilof River. Regulations include two adult salmon from the beginning of the season to June 30. From July 1 to July 31, only one king salmon can be kept.
License
A fishing license is required in Alaska for ages 16 to 59. You also must purchase an Alaska king salmon license stamp and a harvest stamp along with a fishing license. A harvest record means when you catch a fish, you must record it in a harvest record, which is often located on the back of your fishing license. You can purchase a special stamp and fishing license online or through the mail from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
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