The Kenai River
82 miles of turquoise glacier water. Home to world-record King Salmon, millions of Sockeye, and legendary Rainbow Trout.
Live Fish Counts
kenai River - sockeye Salmon Escapement
Live Fish Counts
kenai River - king Salmon Escapement
Understanding the River
The Kenai is divided into three distinct sections, each offering vastly different fishing experiences and regulations.
Upper Kenai
From Kenai Lake down to Skilak Lake. This section is non-motorized (drift boat only) and is world-renowned for late summer trophy Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden. Early run Sockeye push through here to the Russian River.
- Drift Boats Only
- Prime Trophy Trout Water
Middle Kenai
From Skilak Lake down to the Sterling Highway bridge in Soldotna. This section allows powerboats but maintains complex horsepower restrictions. Excellent for Silver Salmon, late run Sockeye, and massive fall Rainbows.
- Powerboats Allowed
- The "Canyon" Float
Lower Kenai
From Soldotna down to the Cook Inlet in Kenai. This is the busiest section of the river, heavily influenced by tides. This is where the famous King Salmon fishery takes place, and where the Sockeye initially hit the river.
- Heavy Tidal Influence
- Primary King Salmon Zone
Kenai Access Map
Locate boat launches, bank access points, and ADF&G Sonar counters.
Legend
Ready to Fish the Kenai?
We've spent decades learning every seam and gravel bar on this river. Let us show you the best of what the Kenai has to offer.
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