Prices, Lodges, Guides, and Species – Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
If Alaska’s on your bucket list, there’s no better place to start than the legendary Kenai River. Known for its world-class salmon runs, trout fishing, and fly fishing access, this river system draws anglers from around the globe. But with so many choices — trips, guides, lodges, and charter options — where do you start?
This 2025 planning guide breaks down the best Kenai River fishing trips, what they cost, where to stay, and how to find a local guide who actually lives and breathes this water.
💰 2025 Kenai River Fishing Trip Prices
Planning your budget? Here’s what you can expect to spend in 2025:
| Trip Type | Avg. Price Per Angler | Trip Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Half Day | $200–$250 | 4 hrs |
| 3/4 Day | $250–$275 | 6 hrs |
| Full Day | $300–$350 | 8+ hrs |
| Private Boat Upgrade | $150–$250 extra | Flexible |
✅ All trips include high-end gear, waders, tackle, fish cleaning, and a USCG-licensed guide.
🎣 Best Kenai River Fishing Trips by Season
The Kenai River fishing season runs from June through October. Depending on when you visit, here’s what’s biting:
June
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🐟 Early rainbow trout
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🐟 First sockeye salmon pulse
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✅ Best for half or 3/4 day trips
July
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🐟 Peak sockeye salmon season
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🐟 Rainbows, Dolly Varden
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✅ Best month for first-timers
August
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🐟 Coho (silver salmon) begin
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🐟 Pink salmon (odd years only)
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✅ Full day trips highly recommended
September–October
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🐟 Peak coho salmon
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🐟 Big rainbow trout
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✅ Best for fly fishing & fewer crowds
👨✈️ How to Find the Best Kenai River Fishing Guides
Not all fishing guides are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
✅ Born-and-raised Alaska locals
✅ 20+ years on the water
✅ Family-friendly, patient, and knowledgeable
✅ USCG certified, insured, and CPR trained
At Kenai-Fishing.com, your guide is Ian McDonald, a lifelong Alaskan who’s guided professionally for over two decades. He runs every trip himself — no contractors, no surprise subs.
🧢 Fly Fishing the Kenai River
The Kenai River fly fishing scene is nothing short of legendary. From dry fly eats to bead drifting for monster trout, this is a fly angler’s paradise. Ideal areas include:
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🪶 Upper Kenai near Cooper Landing
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🪶 Middle Kenai drift zones
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🪶 Fall trout hunts on the Lower Kenai
We offer fly-specific trips for both salmon and trout, with walk-in and float options.
📍 Where to Stay – Top Kenai River Lodges
Looking for a lodge near your launch point? Here’s a quick location guide:
| Area | Good For |
|---|---|
| Soldotna | Central, full amenities, powerboats |
| Cooper Landing | Scenic fly fishing, upper river |
| Kasilof | Drift-only floats, peaceful vibes |
| Funny River | Quieter stays, close to Kenai access |
Ask us for lodge recommendations — we work with a network of trusted hosts who treat anglers like family.
🚤 Kenai Halibut Fishing Charters – Make It a Combo
Want to hit the saltwater too? Halibut charters are available out of:
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Homer
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Ninilchik
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Anchor Point
🎯 Many captains offer combo charters that target halibut + king salmon in May and June.
Let us help you book a halibut charter that fits your travel window — we only recommend guides we know and trust.
🏞️ Cooper Landing Fishing Guides – For the Scenic Experience
Cooper Landing is tucked between turquoise lakes and alpine peaks — and home to some of the best drift boat fishing on the Upper Kenai.
This area is ideal for:
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🎣 Fly anglers
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🎣 Walk-and-wade trips
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🎣 Wildlife photography + fishing combos
If your Alaska dream includes quiet water, fall colors, and dry fly eats — ask for Cooper Landing in your booking inquiry.
🐟 Who Is Kenai-Fishing.com?
Kenai-Fishing.com isn’t a booking agency or a lodge conglomerate. We’re a local, family-run fishing company based in Soldotna, led by one guide who does all the work — Ian McDonald aka Kenai Fly Fish.
✅ We guide because we love it
✅ We teach, not just “put you on fish”
✅ We fish for the memories — and the meat
✅ We respect the land, the water, and the fish
📅 Let’s Book Your 2025 Trip
Whether you’re chasing your first sockeye or planning a full week of multi-species adventure, we’re here to help you get it right.
🎣 Contact Ian McDonald directly at (907) 301-6957
🛶 Or send a message →
We’ll help you pick the right trip, time, and strategy — no pressure, just local expertise.