Alaska Salmon Season 2026

Run: Late May–July · Peak: Mid June

Kenai River King Salmon fishing is managed under ADF&G real-time emergency orders. The fishery can open and close on 24 hours notice. In 2026, King fishing is currently closed by emergency order — check ADF&G daily for updates. Kasilof River hatchery Kings (clipped) often remain open during Kenai closures.

Run: Late June–August · Peak: July 1–25

The Kenai late-run Sockeye is the cornerstone of the guided season. ADF&G preseason forecasts for 2026 project a strong run. The 3-fish daily limit per angler applies on the Kenai. The Kasilof Sockeye run peaks slightly earlier in late June.

Run: August–September · Peak: Late August–September

Coho are the most explosive fighters in the river and the highlight of the late-season. Chrome-bright fish arrive in August and numbers peak through September. Daily limits are generally 3 fish. Upper and middle river Coho action is exceptional through early October in strong years.

Run: July–August · Peak: Late July (odd years)

Pink Salmon run in large numbers on odd years and light numbers on even years. 2026 is an even year, so expect minimal Pink Salmon presence in the Kenai system. Not a target species for guided trips this season.

Run: July–September · Peak: August

Chum Salmon run the Kenai system in good numbers and are dramatically underutilized. They fight hard — a 15-pound Chum on lighter tackle is a genuine battle. Excellent smoking fish. Available as a secondary species on summer and fall guided trips.