Trout and Sockeye Salmon on the Upper Kenai River

We have specialized in fishing the Upper Kenai River between Kenai and Skilak Lakes since 1977. Our guides are experts in fly fishing as well as drift fishing and back trolling. You can expect an exciting eight hours of fishing for red (sockeye) salmon, rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. All top-quality gear and tackle is provided and we happily accommodate both expert and novice anglers.

Trip departures and prices:

Full-Day 8-Hour Fishing Trip: $275 + tax per person (lunch included)
Daily Departures: Between 4:30am and 6am (call for meeting times & locations: 800.478.4100)

King Salmon on the Kenai River

Fish the Lower Kenai River (near Soldotna and Sterling) for giant king salmon from late May through July. Kenai River kings are the largest in the world. Whether you're an accomplished angler or a recreational fisherman, our professional guides will put you on the fish. Up to four people fish comfortably from our state-of-the-art Willie Predator power boats on the Kenai River.

Trip departures and prices:

Full-Day 8-Hour Fishing Trip: $275 + tax per person (lunch included)
Daily Departures: Between 4:15am and 6am (call for meeting time & locations: 800.478.4100)

Silver Salmon on the Lower Kenai River or in Resurrection Bay

Either on the Kenai River or in scenic Resurrection Bay, you'll have an action-packed day of silver salmon fishing in August or September. The excitement of hooking one of these prized fish is worth the trip to Alaska in itself. Our boats are equipped with the best and latest fishing gear including depth and fish finders, and top-quality rods and reels.

Trip departures and prices:

Full-Day 8-Hour Fishing Trip: $275 + tax per person (lunch included)
Daily Departures: Between 5:30am and 6:30am (call for meeting times & locations: 800.478.4100).

Notes: As an added value, we will fillet your salmon. Full fish processing, including vacuum sealing and flash freezing may be available at $1 per pound.  Check with your guide for details.  Salmon, on rare occasion, may be limited to catch and release by order of Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Once you have reached the daily limit, you may not have your line in the water the rest of that day per Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations. Fish trip prices do not include 3% local sales tax, fishing licenses, Two Dollars A Day Program, or gratuities to guides.

For more information, please visit our main day trip fishing page:  http://www.alaskarivertrips.com/fishing.html

Fishing FAQ's

• Do I need a fishing license?
  Anyone over the age of 15 will need an Alaska fishing license. Anyone fishing for king salmon will need a king stamp. Licenses are not included in our trip costs, and must be purchased prior to your fishing trip. One day licenses cost $20 per person and one day king stamps cost $10 per person. To purchase a fishing license online, please click here www.admin.adfg.state.ak.us/license.
  Note: Please allow two weeks to receive your license in the mail.
  
  
• What equipment is provided?
  We provide all tackle and fishing gear, hip waders and U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices. While you are welcome to use our rubberized rain gear, we encourage you to bring your own rain gear.  Please do not bring a cheap plastic poncho.  You are also welcome to bring your own favorite fishing tackle and waders if you prefer.
  
  
• What can I fish for?
  We will do our best to provide the most exciting fishing available on any given day. May through July we'll fish for giant king salmon on the Lower Kenai River. In August and September we'll fish for silver salmon in the Lower Kenai River and in Resurrection Bay near Seward. The upper Kenai River offers excellent fishing for sockeye salmon in June and July as well as rainbow trout and Dolly Varden from June through September.
  
  
• Can I keep what I catch?
  You can keep king, sockeye and silver salmon within regulations and up to the limit ordered by Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Rainbow trout are catch and release only. Salmon, on rare occasions, may be limited to catch and release.
  
  
• Can I bring my camera and binoculars on the boat?
  Definitely. You will want to take many pictures of your fish, magnificent scenery and wildlife along the river. Your gear will remain relatively dry in the boat storage spaces, and we provide waterproof bags for protection from the occasional splash.
  
  
• Will I see wildlife?
  The Kenai River valley is home to moose, eagles, bears, beavers, otters and numerous fish and waterfowl. Wildlife sightings vary on each trip. Your guide will share with you ways to search for wildlife and recognize wildlife signs.
  
  
• What if I've never fished before?
  No previous knowledge of fishing is necessary. You need only be in average physical condition and have a hearty appetite for adventure. Fishing in Alaska is fun regardless of your experience level and our guides will teach you their successful techniques.
  
  
• How many people are in each fishing boat?
  Our boats fit up to four guests, plus your fishing guide.
  
  
• Can my family fish with me?
  We often guide groups or families with various ages and fishing abilities. Children over the age of 13 are welcome to fish with us and frequently catch the largest fish in the group! There's usually enough fishing adventure and wildlife sightings to keep the entire family entertained.
  
  
• Are there bathroom facilities along the river?
  On the Upper Kenai River, we'll be fishing through some undeveloped wilderness areas with enough trees for everyone. Restrooms are available at several landings along the way. On the Lower Kenai, restroom facilities are always available within a short boat ride.
  
  
• What's the weather going to be like?
  Alaskan weather is unpredictable and can change hourly. Even on the sunniest days of summer, the temperature on the river will feel cool. Your guides will offer advice on how to layer your clothing to maximize comfort.
  
  
• Where and when do I meet my guide?
  For Upper Kenai River and Seward Trips, we meet at our Kenai Riverside Lodge and Cabins at Milepost 50.1 on the Sterling Highway in Cooper Landing. For Lower Kenai River Trips, you can arrange to meet your guide in Soldotna or in Cooper Landing, whichever is more convenient for you. We will confirm the meeting place with you prior to your trip.
  
  
• How will I get back to my car?
  Return shuttle is provided. We'll take you back to where you met us at the start of your trip, either Soldotna or Cooper Landing.
  
  
• What is the "Two Dollars a Day Program?"
  Alaska Wildland Adventures contributes annually to Alaska-based nonprofit efforts for environmental protection. As a guest, you can elect to participate in our "Two Dollars A Day Program." Since its inception, the program has allowed us to pass along tens of thousands of dollars in contributions. You can help support groups working to preserve and protect the Kenai Peninsula by making a voluntary contribution of $2 for each day of your trip with us. Donations made to this program will be equally divided among:

Friends of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Kenai River Sportfishing Association
Eastern Kenai Peninsula Environmental Action Association
Cook Inlet Keeper