🌊 The River That Built a Reputation
When people think of salmon fishing in Alaska, they think Kenai River. It’s not just famous—it’s iconic. Stretching 82 miles from Kenai Lake to Cook Inlet, this glacier-fed river boasts one of the strongest sockeye salmon runs in the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or visiting Alaska for the first time, Kenai River salmon fishing delivers a bucket-list experience.
🔗 Explore All Kenai River Trips »
🔗 Check Fishing Trip Rates »
📍 Fishing Zones Along the Kenai River
Each stretch of the river offers something unique. We customize every trip to the best location based on the time of year, species, and run strength:
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Upper Kenai (Cooper Landing)
🛶 Drift boat only – peaceful, scenic, and sockeye-rich -
Middle Kenai (Soldotna area)
🔥 Hot for sockeye in mid-July, and trout later in the season -
Lower Kenai (Tidal stretch)
💥 Late July sockeye chaos — fast limits, wild energy
🔗 Compare with Kasilof River Trips »
📆 2025 Kenai Salmon Seasons
Timing is everything in Alaska fishing. Here’s your quick reference for Kenai River salmon fishing seasons in 2025:
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🟥 Sockeye Salmon: June 11 – August 15
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🟦 Coho (Silver) Salmon: August 1 – October 30
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⚠️ King Salmon: Not open on Kenai River in 2025 — for conservation
🔗 ADF&G Fishing Seasons Page »
🎣 The Gear & Boats We Use
All trips include top-quality tackle, custom rods, and breathable waders. We operate both drift boats and power boats, depending on the section of river and your trip preference.
Want to slow down and enjoy the float? Choose a drift boat trip on the Upper River.
Want to get to the fish fast and limit out early? Book a power boat trip on the Middle or Lower River.
🔗 Trip Highlights »
🔗 What to Expect on a Trip »
👤 Your Guide (And His Dog)
Most of our trips are led by Ian McDonald, a second-generation Kenai guide known for his laid-back style and dialed-in instincts. You’ll also be joined by Bones, the river’s most famous fishing dog—part mascot, part morale booster, and full-time limit luck charm.
🔗 Meet Ian + Bones »
🔗 Read Reviews & Testimonials »
🧭 Where We Launch From
We use multiple launches to get you as close to the fish as possible:
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🚤 Eagle Rock – Lower River
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🛶 Bings Landing – Middle River
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🛶 Cooper Landing Launch – Upper River
🔗 Where to Fish on the Kenai »
📝 Before You Go: Permits & Prep
You’ll need a valid Alaska sportfishing license, available online.
Also bring:
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Rain gear and layers
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Polarized sunglasses
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Camera or phone (for the grip-and-grin shot!)
📸 Ready for the Best Fishing of Your Life?
We’re currently booking June through October. Prime spots go fast, especially for peak sockeye in mid-July and silver salmon in September.
