Few rivers can attain the world-class rainbows that inhabit the Kenai River. Never a dull moment fishing these waters. Fishing on the Kenai River was always a cornerstone for our dream Alaskan RV vacation.
The Kenai River runs 80 miles, starting in the Chugach Range Mountains and flowing into Kenai Lake. From there, it continues through Skilak Lake and the Kenai Wildlife Refuge, finally reaching Cook Inlet. This river is famous for its crystal blue waters, which are home to trophy rainbows and impressive salmon catches. Anglers flock to the Kenai for the chance to land record-setting fish in a stunning natural setting.
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The Kenai River in Alaska attracts anglers from all over the world. It is famous for its massive runs of salmon. The species they can pursue are Chinook, Sockeye, Coho, and Pink Salmon. Each of these presents an individual challenge and excitement. It is a nice backdrop to fish at. Quite a number show up for the thrill of catching a trophy-sized fish. The river’s rich ecosystem would impress nature lovers. Fishing here is not a sport, but an adventure to remember. Whether one is a novice or an expert, the Kenai River has something in store for all.
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Important to know Before you go Fishing on the Kenai River
If you’re fishing the Kenai River, get your fishing license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Look into the regulations for the species you want to catch, as there are limits on size and numbers. Practicing catch and release is crucial to keep the fishery healthy for future anglers. Always stay aware of local wildlife like bears and eagles that are common in the area. Respect their space while enjoying your fishing experience.
Kenai River Fishing with Alaska Fishing Service
The best way to ensure that you have the time of your life catching and not just fishing is to hire an experienced guide. The Kenai River is world famous and for a reason, local guides will find locate fish faster using the right pattern, without wasting precious time. Fishing with a guide from a boat offers the best chance at catching a giant Kenai Rainbow. We chose professional guide Kevin Thurman, owner of the Alaska Fishing Service. Kevin has a first-rate resume with a 40-year career fishing. He is a licensed Coast Guard captain and certified Kenai River guide. He supplies all the fishing gear necessary to reeling in a world record salmon or trophy rainbow trout. As a guide, he goes the extra mile, even stopping off the evening before to schedule the early morning pick up and plan the day’s adventure.
Getting an Early Start on the River
The early morning starts with at 5 am with the short drive down the Sterling Highway. With the 20 plus hours of daylight in Alaska, rising early is key to having a full day on the river. The highway follows the shoreline of the river as we approach the turnoff for Bing’s Landing. The small pontoon boat launches effortlessly into the river. We are glad we are dressed in layers as the clouds have moved in overnight with a chill in the air. Today, both of us have a waterproof rain jacket and rain pants, fleece jacket, and gloves that we can remove as the temperature rises throughout the day.
This trip is a far cry from the “combat fishing” we saw earlier at the Russian River, where hundreds of people line up elbow-to-elbow to fight for a few fish getting their lines tangled definitely in a league of their own.
The Kenai River Stunning Scenery
The Kenai river has its headwaters at Kenai lake beginning near Cooper landing. The middle Kenai River flows out of Skilak Lake and runs down to the Sterling Highway Bridge at Soldotna. Kevin is an expert at maneuvering the boat upriver, passing through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Here, the shoreline is untouched by residential homes. We spot an occasional moose on the forested shoreline but do not see grizzlies today. Nothing compares to the beauty of the Kenai. The rain overnight has turned clouded this section of the river, but as we pass the Killey River, the surreal glacial silt color of the water returns as we enter Skilak Lake.
Kevin explains how the Rainbows have just finished spawning as we motor into Skilak Lake to begin our drift downstream. They are ready to fatten up. They are ambush predators lying in wait for salmon smolt balls to pass downstream. Early season rainbows fresh off the spawn eagerly chase streamers as they feast on the salmon smolt or salmon carcasses. Dead drifting flesh flies (peach, orange, pink) in the eddies increases your chances of getting a strike. If the fish are feasting on sockeye carcasses, adding a bead to the leader will get the streamer lower in the water column, simulating how the flesh tumbles downstream.
Getting Setup for Kenai Trophy Rainbows
Float fishing requires a long spin rod with the reel set up for easier casting, braided fluorocarbon line, a Drennen 6 gr float, and shot make up the rest of the float set up. Drift management includes a perfect boat position to provide the best possible casting opportunities for these 10 lbs or larger rainbows. These are the norm for this first-class river.
Catching the Elusive Kenai River Rainbow Trout
Kevin continues to give tips and tricks so that we can get the best bites. Before long, Barry hooks up with a fish. Over the next 20-minutes, the fish makes several runs leaping out of the water. Just before Kevin can net the fish, it swings into the river, dislodging the hook. Alas, the big one gets away.
As our outstanding day continues, we catch and release many rainbow trout ranging from 3 to 4 lbs. The day has been rewarding watching these hard-fighting rainbows bend our lines. The Kenai River is truly an angler’s paradise! Kevin Thurman was not only a patient guide, he was a fantastic teacher! He is an expert angler and knows the Kenai intimately.
Tips for your trip on the Kenai River
- Bring a refillable water bottle (with filter) and a thermos of coffee, and along with snacks too because you’re in the boat for hours.
- Remember sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- A dry bag for binoculars and a camera with a telescopic lens
- Bring a dry bag to keep your lunch and electronics safe.
- Wade Shoes with neoprene socks are best for shore fishing.
Final Thoughts on A-Mazing World-Class Rainbows on the Kenai River
There are many fishing guides and outfitters available in the area that can provide you with equipment and expertise. They can also take you to the best fishing spots and help you navigate the river, which can be challenging for inexperienced anglers.
At the end of our perfect day, we returned to our RV for a fresh salmon dinner. Even though the sun never sets this time of the year, we sleep well this night dreaming of our return to catch the big one!
Have you been to Alaska? Dreaming of catching the big fish? Tell us about your fishing adventure. Share in the comments below, we love hearing your stories!
