Anglers looking for a quieter alternative to the Kenai River won’t want to miss out on a Kasilof River fishing adventure. This drift-only fishing haven offers up the opportunity to go against Alaska’s finest freshwater targets in a more peaceful environment. Leave the crowds behind and hook into your dream catch in this underrated paradise!
You have two opportunities to go after King (Chinook) Salmon in the Kasilof River. The first run happens in May and is followed by a second in July. To tide you over between the two runs, target delicious Red (Sockeye) Salmon in the upper Kasilof. This is a favorite for fly fishermen!
The Salmon season finishes off with a beautiful run of Silver (Coho) Salmon, starting in late August. Once they’ve left, it’s all about hooking into Rainbow Trout and massive Steelhead. Color-changing Dolly Varden joins in for the ride, keeping light tackle enthusiasts entertained well into October and November.
Fishing in Alaska deserves time and patience, and the more hours you spend on the water, the better. Trips lasting five hours and longer are recommended to get the most out of your experience. Multi-day trips are also popular, especially in the summertime. Just be sure to book your charter and lodging in advance to avoid disappointment.
The Crooked Creek and Kasilof River State Recreation Sites are popular launch spots for charters. You can camp at both, which is great if you’re planning a multi-day trip. Take the Sterling highway on your way in and enjoy the beautiful vistas!
Rules & Regulations
The majority of charters in Alaska don’t provide fishing licenses. As a result, you’ll need to purchase your own freshwater license before your trip. Possession and bagging limits vary significantly depending on the time of year, so it’s best to do some research and head out with a guide.