2026 ADF&G Emergency Orders for Alaska – Kenai & Kasilof Rivers
The Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G) has issued Emergency Orders (EOs) for the 2026 season affecting salmon fisheries on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. These actions are designed to protect vulnerable king salmon stocks while maintaining sustainable fishing opportunities where possible.
Kenai River – King Salmon Fishery Closure
For the 2026 season, Emergency Orders have closed the Kenai River king salmon sport fishery.
This means:
• No retention of king salmon
• No targeting of king salmon
• Applies during traditional early and late king salmon seasons
These closures reflect ongoing conservation concerns and the need to help achieve escapement goals for naturally produced king salmon.
Kasilof River – King Salmon Restrictions
Emergency Orders for the Kasilof River implement protective measures for king salmon, including:
• Gear restrictions (single-hook, unbaited, artificial lures)
• Retention allowed only for hatchery-produced king salmon (adipose clipped)
• Naturally produced king salmon must be released immediately
These regulations aim to reduce pressure on wild stocks while allowing limited harvest of hatchery fish.
Kasilof River – Personal Use Fishery Adjustment
ADF&G has also reduced the personal use gillnet fishery at the mouth of the Kasilof River.
The season window has been shortened to help minimize incidental impacts on king salmon migrating through the area.
Why Emergency Orders Are Used
Emergency Orders allow ADF&G to respond in real time to:
• Run strength
• Escapement needs
• Conservation priorities
• In-season fishery performance
They are a normal part of Alaska fisheries management and are critical for long-term sustainability.
What Anglers Should Do
Before fishing:
✔️ Review current Emergency Orders
✔️ Check regulation updates
✔️ Confirm gear & retention rules
✔️ Stay informed on in-season changes
Regulations can change quickly depending on fish counts and run conditions.
References
ADF&G Emergency Orders – Southcentral Region
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/sf/EONR/index.cfm?ADFG=region.R2
ADF&G Kenai River Emergency Orders
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/sf/EONR/index.cfm?ADFG=region.R2&river=kenai
ADF&G Kasilof River Emergency Orders
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/sf/EONR/index.cfm?ADFG=region.R2&river=kasilof
ADF&G Emergency Order PDFs (2026)
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/sf/EONR/index.cfm
