They don't call them king salmon because it's a catchy name. Record-breaking, near 100-pound king salmon catches have been made in the Kenai River that runs by Soldotna, Alaska. With so many king salmon inhabiting the waters near Soldotna, fishermen should learn about the area in planning their trip.
Time of Year and Requirements
According to Grand Slam Fishing, the king salmon season in Alaska runs from early May until late July. A fishing license is required for king salmon fishing and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game also sets forth regulations for fishermen, such as rules against using explosives and toxins, and those requiring fishermen to use single-line rods. When crossing or traveling through streams, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game says that it is unlawful to use a motorized vehicle in streams that may contain salmon, trout or char.
Lodging
Hotels and cabins are available throughout Soldotna. Pete's Fishing Guide Service offers cabin rentals. The Sports Den also offers one- and two-bedroom condominiums in addition to its fishing packages. The cabins include living rooms, fully-stocked kitchens and dining areas, and maid service.
Packages
Grand Slam Fishing in Soldotna offers king salmon fishing packages that change, depending on how much a person catches. May prices are slightly lower than in June and July, when the season is in full swing. Half-day packages from 6 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. are $175 per person, while full-day rates are $285 per person for over three more hours of fishing, as of September 2010. Grand Slam offers a $50 rebate for anglers who don't catch any fish. The Sports Den, located in Soldotna, offers three different packages. The first is a salmon special that includes five nights of condo accommodations, three full days of guided salmon fishing and one day of halibut fishing for $1,595 per person, as of September 2010. The other two packages are similarly priced but include more trout and halibut fishing and do not concentrate on salmon.
King Salmon Characteristics
Due to their size, king salmon are easily identified by fishermen. According to Alaska Fishing and Lodging, the Alaskan king salmon is the largest species of Pacific salmon. While most king salmon caught on the Kenai River range between 20 and 60 pounds, the record king salmon weight on the Kenai is 97.25 pounds, as of September 2010. king salmon in the Kenai River differ greatly in size due to the fact that they spend two to six years in the ocean.
Weather Conditions
It should come as no surprise that Alaskan fishing can be cold, but during the summer months when king salmon are fair game, the temperatures can be mild and even warm, although Kenai Riverfront says the weather is dry and never humid. The Sports Den says temperatures start in the low 40s during the early summer mornings, but usually reach highs in the low 70s. The Sports Den recommends dressing in layers and wearing sweaters, windbreakers and rain gear, as the Kenai area receives abundant rainfall throughout the year.
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