🌊 Why Kasilof Salmon Fishing Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
Tucked just south of the Kenai River, the Kasilof offers a completely different kind of fishing experience. Kasilof salmon fishing is quiet, scenic, and filled with wild fish runs. With no power boats allowed, it’s 100% drift boat access—making it perfect for anglers seeking serenity and solid hookups.
Whether you’re targeting sockeye, coho, or kings (when allowed), this river delivers big-time thrills in a small-river setting.
📅 Kasilof Salmon Runs – When to Fish in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the Kasilof salmon fishing schedule for 2025:
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🐟 Sockeye Salmon
📍 Season: June 11 – August 15
✅ Best time for limits, action, and family fun -
🐟 Coho (Silver) Salmon
📍 Season: August 1 – October 30
✅ Perfect for later-season trips and hard fighters -
🐟 King Salmon (Catch & Release Only)
⚠️ No harvest allowed for Kasilof kings in 2025
✅ We prioritize river health and sustainable fishing
➡️ ADF&G Salmon Timing Guide »
🛶 What Makes Kasilof Salmon Fishing Unique?
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🚫 No motorboats = peaceful drift trips
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🎯 High catch rates during sockeye runs
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🏞️ Gorgeous valley and mountain views
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🐕 Dog-friendly boats (bring your pup!)
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🎣 Fully guided with premium gear and tackle
➡️ Book Your Kasilof Trip »
➡️ Compare to Kenai River Trips »
👨✈️ Guided Kasilof Salmon Trips With Ian McDonald
Ian has over 15 years of experience guiding on the Kasilof River. With his river dog Bones riding along and deep knowledge of water levels, weather patterns, and salmon movement, your success rate is in good hands.
Every trip includes:
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✔️ Licensed drift boat guide
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✔️ All gear, tackle, and waders
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✔️ Full instruction for all experience levels
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✔️ Scenic floats from Tustumena to Crooked Creek
➡️ Meet Ian & Bones »
➡️ Trip FAQ »
🎒 What to Pack for Your Kasilof Salmon Fishing Trip
Alaska weather changes fast, even in summer! Here’s what to bring:
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🧥 Rain gear (layers work best)
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🎒 Daypack for snacks and drinks
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🧤 Gloves, hat, sunglasses
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🪪 Printed or digital Alaska Fishing License »
🚗 Kasilof River Boat Launches and Trip Start Points
Most Kasilof salmon fishing trips launch from:
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🚩 Tustumena Lake Outlet Launch – Start of drift
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🚩 Crooked Creek State Rec Area – Takeout location
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🚩 Lower River Private Access – Used for coho floats
➡️ View Our Trip Routes »
➡️ See Full Alaska Fishing Season Calendar »
🧭 Fishing Kasilof vs. Kenai – Which Should You Pick?
| Feature | Kasilof River | Kenai River |
|---|---|---|
| Boat Type | Drift only | Drift + Jet |
| Noise Level | Peaceful | Mixed |
| Best For | Sockeye + Solitude | Variety + Volume |
| Group Size | 2–4 max | 2–6 depending on boat |
Both rivers are incredible—but the Kasilof is ideal for a less crowded, more classic Alaska salmon experience.
🎯 Book Your Kasilof Salmon Fishing Trip
We run Kasilof salmon fishing trips daily from early June through late September. Half day and full day options available.
👉 Book Now »
📞 Questions? Contact Us »