🕓 When the Season Shifts, the Fishing Heats Up
From mid-August through October, the Kenai River comes alive with late-run silver (coho) salmon and pink salmon. While many travelers think July is the peak, seasoned anglers know that the best quality fishing—and the best fish for the freezer—often comes later in the season.
✔️ Fewer crowds
✔️ Cooler weather
✔️ Bigger fish (especially coho)
✔️ Epic fall colors on the riverbanks
🐟 What You’ll Catch
The late-run fishing season focuses on:
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Silver Salmon (Coho) – Hard-fighting and chrome-bright
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Pink Salmon (Humpy) – Every even year, the river fills with pinks
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Rainbow Trout & Dolly Varden – Feeding heavy behind spawning salmon
➡️ Learn more about our Trout & Combo Trips »
🗓️ Best Time to Come
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Silvers (Coho): August 15 – October 30
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Pinks (Humpy): August 1 – September 1 (even years)
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Trout Bonus: August 11 onward – the trout gorge on eggs and flesh
📅 View our full Kenai Fishing Calendar »
🚤 Best Trips for Late-Run Salmon
Whether you’re looking for an easy half-day or a full-day fall adventure, these are our top picks:
🎒 What to Expect
Expect cold mornings, warm afternoons, and aggressive fish. We provide:
✅ All tackle & bait
✅ Waders & boots
✅ Heated boat seats
✅ Expert guide with over 20 years of experience
✅ One very friendly fishing dog 🐕 Bones »
🌨️ Fall weather in Alaska is unpredictable—see what to pack »
🧾 ADF&G Regulations & Links
Before heading out, review the latest regs:
📸 Book a Trip During Peak Coho Season
Booking mid-August through late September ensures:
✅ Prime coho salmon
✅ Fewer anglers
✅ Bonus trout action
✅ Epic fall photo ops
