Sockeye Salmon, Early Rainbows, Quiet Rivers & Big Potential
June is the true start of fishing season on the Kenai Peninsula. The rivers wake up, the salmon start to move, and the trout feed heavily after a long winter. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, June offers a quieter, more scenic experience — with excellent opportunities for both salmon and trout.
Here’s everything you need to know about Kenai River fishing in June, including species, timing, trip options, and what makes this early-season window so special.
🐟 What Fish Are Running in June?
Fishing in June on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers means targeting early-run sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden. Here’s the breakdown:
✅ Sockeye Salmon – June 10 to July 10 (first run)
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Early fish start showing up mid-June
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Best numbers after June 15
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Typically stronger on the Kasilof River early in the month
🔗 Sockeye Salmon Trips →
✅ Rainbow Trout – Open June 11 onward
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Catch-and-release only in June
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Excellent fly or spin fishing
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Great for combo trips
🔗 Trout & Combo Trips →
✅ Dolly Varden – June through fall
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Often caught alongside trout
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Fun on light gear
🛶 Best Trip Types for June Fishing
🕓 Half Day Trips
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Perfect for scouting early runs
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Lower river sockeye or trout float
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Best for beginners, families, or those short on time
🕕 3/4 Day Trips
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Best value for June
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Plenty of time to target sockeye + trout
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Flexible pace for varied conditions
🕗 Full Day Trips
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Ideal for covering more water
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Chase fish across multiple spots
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Strongly recommended from June 20 onward
🚤 Kenai vs Kasilof in June – Which River Is Best?
| Feature | Kenai River | Kasilof River |
|---|---|---|
| Sockeye Timing | Slower early June, good by late | Earlier action, especially mid-June |
| Boat Type | Jet boat | Drift boat |
| Scenery | Larger water, big mountains | Peaceful, remote feel |
| Best For | Bigger groups, power access | Quiet floats, first-time anglers |
👨✈️ Local Guide, Real Experience
All June trips are led by Ian McDonald, a USCG-licensed guide with 20+ years of experience on the Kenai & Kasilof. Born and raised on the Peninsula, Ian offers:
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✅ Hands-on coaching for new anglers
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✅ Fly or conventional gear setups
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✅ Real-time decisions based on tide, water clarity, and fish movement
🧭 What to Expect on a June Fishing Trip
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🛥️ Early morning or mid-day departures
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🎣 Targeting sockeye or trout depending on run timing
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🧥 Cooler temps — dress in layers
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📸 Gorgeous spring colors, snow-capped peaks
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😌 Quiet river with fewer boats than July/August
🏡 Lodging for June Trips
June is a great time to visit because lodging is easier to book before the July rush. Recommended areas:
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Soldotna – Easy access to both rivers
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Kasilof – Closer to early sockeye drift floats
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Cooper Landing – Fly fishing options & scenery
Ask us for trusted lodge referrals when you book!
📷 Why June Is a Hidden Gem
While many anglers wait until July or August, June offers a slower pace, fewer crowds, and a strong shot at early fish. It’s ideal for:
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🎯 First-timers
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📸 Photography-focused guests
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🧍 Solo anglers or small groups
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🛏️ Visitors who prefer shoulder-season travel
“Some of my favorite trips happen in June. We’ve got space to move, fish that haven’t been pressured, and room to relax.”
— Ian McDonald
📞 Ready to Fish in June?
Lock in your June 2025 fishing trip before the season fills up. The sockeye show up fast — and the trout are always waiting.
🎣 Book Your June Trip Now
📞 Call or text Ian: (907) 301-6957
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