Alaska Fishing Reports: Kenai/Kasiloff/Russian Rivers and Area Lakes

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/5
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Seward - Fault Point
SPECIES:  Halibut

REPORT: Excellent weather, Halibut still slow, picked up one 20lb'er near Fault Point, allot of LingCod (out of season) so I moved on. Sea Lions out, saw several Black Bears eating the first of the green shoreline grass.
 
thanks to aoj for that report

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for May 22, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, four Emergency Orders are in effect for this area. The first was released to remind anglers that they may not fillet or otherwise disfigure king salmon in such a manner that would prevent determination of the length of the fish. Boat anglers cannot fillet a king salmon until the fish is brought to shore and offloaded from the vessel. Shore anglers cannot fillet a king salmon before removing it from the fishing site. The Emergency Order still allows gilling and/or gutting the king salmon.
The second Emergency Order in effect for this area prohibits anglers from removing incidentally-caught rainbow trout from the water in the Kenai River during the May 2 – June 10 rainbow trout spawning closure.
The third Emergency Order was released to inform Kasilof River anglers that they may keep either a naturally-produced king salmon OR a hatchery king salmon on Tuesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays. Thursday was added as an additional day, beginning May 17. Hatchery king salmon, which are fish that are missing their adipose fin, can be kept seven days per week.
A news release was issued on May 4 closing a 300 foot section of the Kenai River to all sport fishing at river mile 44.75. Two floating smolt traps and sonar equipment have been deployed in the Kenai River near the area called the “Kenai Keys”. The area closed to all sport fishing until June 25 include the waters and shoreline from the deployed smolt traps upstream 300 feet. Anglers and boaters should use extreme caution when transiting the area since floating smolt traps and sonar equipment will be anchored to the river bottom with large anchors and steel cables. If going downstream, stay to the left of center of the river. If going upstream, stay to the right of center of the river.
The following waters are now closed by regulation to all fishing:
The Upper Kenai River from ¼-mile above the Sterling Highway bridge at Cooper Landing downstream to the waters of Skilak Lake within a ½-mile radius of the river inlet. Opens 12:01 a.m., June 11.
The Russian River. Opens 12:01 a.m., June 11.
The Russian River Sanctuary Area (see page 53 of the 2007 regulation booklet). Opens 12:01 a.m., July 15, unless an Emergency Order is issued to open it earlier.
Anglers are reminded to check the regulation booklet as the water they may intend to fish may be closed to all fishing.
The lower Kenai River, from a marker at the outlet near Skilak Lake downstream to the mouth of the Kenai River is closed to sport fishing for rainbow trout. This area will reopen to sport fishing for rainbow trout at 12:01 a.m., June 11.
Anglers are reminded that the Emergency Order liberalizing the number of lines used to fish for northern pike in Scout Lake expired on April 30.
Kenai River early run king salmon sonar passage counts are now available via a Soldotna telephone hotline recording at (907) 262-2737 and from the Division of Sport Fish home page under "Fish Counts."
Kenai River boaters are cautioned that there may still be debris in the water from last winter’s flood.
Salmon – Kenai & Kasilof rivers

In the Kenai and Kasilof rivers, anglers experienced slow king salmon fishing over the weekend of May 19. Fishing in these rivers is expected to improve. Historically, the numbers of kings moving into the rivers increases as the month of May progresses.
Due to cool spring weather and lack of rain, the water levels in both the Kenai and Kasilof rivers are low. Boaters are advised to use caution when navigating in shallow sections of the rivers.
Resident Fish — Kenai River

Fishing opportunities on the Kenai River are currently limited by the seasonal closures to protect spawning rainbow trout. All flowing waters in the Kenai River watershed are closed to fishing for rainbow trout until June 11.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is open on the mainstem Kenai River from its mouth upstream to the inlet of Skilak Lake. Only one unbaited, single hook, artificial lure may be used. The daily bag limit is one Dolly Varden under 18” in length. Anglers have reported that fishing for Dolly Varden has been slow.
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Rainbow/steelhead fishing is reported as fair. Anglers putting in enough time to work the holes and drifts have had some success.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before they are released.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent, as the area lakes are ice-free. A few of the higher elevation lakes will become ice-free soon, with the warmer weather. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes.
Anglers have reported success catching lake trout in Hidden Lake. Lake trout can be found in shallower waters during spring, before water temperatures warm. Trolling with spoons, plugs or spinning rigs tipped with bait may be productive. Tustumena, Skilak and Kenai lakes also support lake trout and can provide good fishing opportunities for lake trout in the spring.
Northern Pike

Stormy Lake is a good bet for springtime fishing for northern pike.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Hooligan (smelt) fishing in the Kenai River is open.
Netter success is expected to increase this week as the run develops.
Dipnetting for hooligan in salt waters closes midnight, May 31. It’s open in fresh waters through midnight, June 15.
You must hold an Alaskan resident sport fishing license (or ADF&G senior license or ADF&G Disabled Veteran’s license) in order to use a dipnet or gill net to catch hooligan. You may take as many hooligan as you will use.
Using a gill net to catch hooligan in the Kenai River is permitted from its mouth upstream to an ADF&G marker located at Cunningham Park. Dipnets may be used to harvest hooligan throughout the Kenai River.
Please refer to page 17 of the 2007 Southcentral Sport Fishing Regulations Summary Booklet for the hooligan / smelt regulations.

thanks to ADF&G for that report

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/26
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  King

REPORT: Spent the long weekend at the Kasilof/Crooked Creek. Caught and released one king on Friday night, no other hookups all weekend. Only saw two other hook-ups all weekend, one from a boat at the top of Peoples Hole and, one from shore. Water was very low, and very few folks fishing.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/28
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Ninilchik River
SPECIES:  King

REPORT: Fished the Ninilchik River for kings for 3 hours, no fish. One man said that he saw some kings get spooked, when a beaver came down the river, but we did't see any. The limit in the river is 2 kings now instead of 1, run must be late, but is expecting a lot of kings this year if they upped the limit to 2 kings.
 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for June 18, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
2-KS-1-12-07
2-RS-1-15-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, five Emergency Orders are in effect for this area. The most recent opened the Russian River Sanctuary Area to fishing beginning Monday, June 18 at 8:00 a.m. The bag limit and possession limit is 3 sockeye (red) salmon.
Another Emergency Order allows bait in the Kenai River king salmon fishery, downstream of a point 100 yards downstream of the confluence of the Moose and Kenai rivers to the mouth of the Kenai River. All other regulations regarding the Kenai River king salmon fishery remain in effect.
Another Emergency Order prohibits anglers from filleting or otherwise disfiguring their king salmon in such a manner that would prevent determination of the length of the fish. Boat anglers cannot fillet a king salmon until the fish is brought to shore and offloaded from the vessel. Shore anglers cannot fillet a king salmon before removing it from the fishing site. The Emergency Order still allows gilling and/or gutting the king salmon.
On the Kasilof River, an Emergency Order has been issued to add Thursday as a day that anglers can keep a wild king salmon. Kasilof anglers can now keep a wild king salmon on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Only hatchery king salmon may be kept on the other days. Hatchery king salmon are missing their adipose fin.
The 300-foot closure on the Kenai River near the smolt traps at River Mile 44.75 remains in effect through June 25. To avoid anchored cables, if going downstream, stay to the left of center of the river. If going upstream, stay to the right of center of the river.
If you’re fishing the Russian River area, don’t forget that the land managers have regulations regarding food storage and possession of refuse. Specific information regarding these regulations can be found at Russian River facilities and by contacting either the Seward Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest, or the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Please remember to “Stop, chop and throw” your filleted fish carcasses into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears to fish carcasses piling up along the shores.
Kenai River early-run king salmon sonar passage counts and Russian River sockeye salmon weir counts are available via a Soldotna recorded telephone hotline at (907) 262-9097 and online on our “Fish Counts” web site.
Anglers are reminded to check the Southcentral sport fishing regulation booklet summary before fishing as the water they intend to fish may have regulations not mentioned here.
Salmon – Kenai, Kasilof and Russian rivers

In the Kenai River, king salmon fishing is reported to be fair to good. The ADF&G creel survey king salmon estimates of catch increased markedly last week, likely due to the numbers of king salmon entering the Kenai River and in part due to the Emergency Order allowing the use of bait. Several anglers have reported bringing several fish to the boat during a fishing day.
Anglers can expect the Kenai River early-run king salmon fishery to remain fair to good for the next several days as the run continues.
In the Kasilof River, king salmon fishing was relatively good over the weekend, but remember that the numbers of king salmon entering the Kasilof, as well as fishing success, typically declines during the third week of June.
Kasilof River anglers fishing from the riverbank at the Crooked Creek State Recreation Site are also catching a few sockeye (red) salmon. Approximately 8,900 sockeye were estimated to have passed the Kasilof River sonar station over the weekend. Typically, larger numbers of sockeye salmon need to be present to provide good sport fishing, which usually happens about during the third week of June. Consequently, anglers can expect sockeye fishing in the Kasilof to improve.
The ADF&G Russian River sockeye salmon fishery is rated as good to excellent. Anglers fishing the Russian River upstream of the Sanctuary Area as well as the Kenai River immediately downstream of the Russian River Ferry crossing are also reporting good success. Anglers should expect a lot of people, but good fishing throughout the week.
The Russian River Sanctuary opened at 8:00 a.m. Monday June 18. During the opening law enforcement staff reported excellent fishing.
The bag limit and possession limit remains at 3 sockeye (red) salmon.
Although the numbers of fish passing through the Russian River weir may decline due to the opening of the Sanctuary Area, anglers should be aware that the weir count may not be the best barometer for fishing success as many sockeye moving up the Kenai River into the Russian River will be harvested before reaching the weir.
Don’t forget to chop up your filleted fish carcasses and throw them into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears by fish carcass build-up. Anglers are also reminded to stay on established trails in the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service parking and campground areas.
Resident Fish — Kenai River

Fishing for rainbow trout in the Kenai River watershed is reported as fair to good. Several drift boat anglers are now fishing the Upper Kenai River between Skilak and Kenai lakes. This fishery will improve as the rainbows move into summer feeding areas.
Almost every stream has different regulations for rainbow / steelhead trout. Anglers need to review and understand the regulations before fishing.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is reported to be fair in those parts of the Kenai drainage that are open. Typically, Dolly Varden are incidentally caught by anglers targeting rainbow trout.
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Anglers have reported some rainbow / steelhead catches incidental to fishing for king salmon; however, these fish have completed spawning and survivors are returning to the ocean to feed.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before release.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent for fishing both the stocked and wild lakes. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes.
Anglers have reported that lake trout fishing in area lakes is slowing down. Lake trout found in shallower waters during spring have moved into deep water as the water temperature have increased. Trolling in deep water, with the aid of downriggers, using spoons, plugs or spinning rigs tipped with bait may still be productive. Anglers should fish deep water and cover a large area to have success at locating a lake trout or two. Tustumena, Hidden, Skilak and Kenai lakes provide lake trout fishing opportunities.
Northern Pike

Stormy and Scout lakes are recommended for springtime fishing for northern pike.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Hooligan (smelt) dipnetting closed at midnight, June 15, for the rest of the year.
The personal use set net fishery near the mouth of the Kasilof is now open, and runs through 11:00 p.m., Sunday, June 24. No reports have come in yet.
Personal use dipnetting at the mouth of the Kasilof starts June 25. Personal use dipnetting at the mouth of the Kenai starts July 10.
You must hold a 2007 Alaskan resident sport fishing license (or ADF&G senior license or ADF&G Disabled Veteran’s license) as well as a free permit in order to use a dipnet or gill net at the Kenai or Kasilof. The free permits are widely available at grocery stores, tackle shops, and sporting goods stores.
Please read pages 16 – 18 of your Southcentral Alaska regulation booklet, or visit our Cook Inlet Personal Use web site.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  6/21
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Russian River
SPECIES:  Reds

REPORT: It has been good and steady but I have definitely had it better.

Fished Tuesday night with about 90 minutes till the last ferry and finally landed a nice hen with about ten minutes to go. Crowds were still heavy and the sow with her two cubs showed up at the point on the highway side. She rousted about 15 anglers really quickly. Hit it again on Wednesday catching the 5th ferry. I had my limit in about 2 hours with plenty of action and fish coming through. My son caught his first salmon ever for which he got a nice round of applause from those around us. Went out again on Thursday, where it was great to begin with with two fish to the bank fairly early on but had to flog the waters for two more hours to finally land a fair third. Not quite at the point of more people than fish, but it is pretty close. A lot of limits are being caught in all the sweet spots, but a lot of folks are walking away blanked.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  6/20
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Russian River
SPECIES:  Reds

REPORT: Fishing is great at the confluence. Loads of fish and loads of people. Be ready for some combat fishing.
 

[silversalmon]

ANGLER:  alpinebob22
TRIP DATE:  6/19
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  lower Kenai
SPECIES:  Kings/ bows

REPORT: Hot sunny weather causing the water levels and temperature to rise (54.9 deg. on (Wednesday). This along with lots of debris in the water made fishing very slow- Zero fish landed and only four strikes on wednesday compared with three fish landed and several strikes on Tuesday.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  6/20
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Russian Sanctuary/confluence
SPECIES:  Reds

REPORT: Started off fishing the Russian, no luck. Headed down to the Confluence around 2130 and it was like fishing in a barrel full of fish. Every other cast I had a fish hooked, got my 3 in 30-40 minutes. Awsome day too bad we had to be at work the next day.
 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for June 25, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
2-KS-1-12-07
2-RS-1-15-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

An Emergency Order has been issued to open the Russian River Sanctuary Area to fishing as of June 18. The bag limit and possession limit remains 3 sockeye (red) salmon.
If you’re fishing the Russian River area, don’t forget that the land managers have regulations regarding food storage and possession of refuse. Specific information regarding these regulations can be found at Russian River facilities and by contacting either the Seward Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest, or the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Please remember to “Stop, chop and throw” your filleted fish carcasses into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears to fish carcasses piling up along the shores.
Another Emergency Order allows bait in the Kenai River king salmon fishery, downstream of a point 100 yards downstream of the confluence of the Moose and Kenai rivers to the mouth of the Kenai River. All other regulations regarding the Kenai River king salmon fishery remain in effect.
Another Emergency Order prohibits anglers from filleting or otherwise disfiguring their king salmon in such a manner that would prevent determination of the length of the fish. Boat anglers cannot fillet a king salmon until the fish is brought to shore and offloaded from the vessel. Shore anglers cannot fillet a king salmon before removing it from the fishing site. The Emergency Order still allows gilling and/or gutting the king salmon.
On the Kasilof River, an Emergency Order has been issued to add Thursday as a day that anglers can keep a wild king salmon. Kasilof anglers can now keep a wild king salmon on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday. Only hatchery king salmon may be kept on the other days. Hatchery king salmon are missing their adipose fin.
The 300-foot closure on the Kenai River near the smolt traps at River Mile 44.75 remains in effect through midnight tonight, June 25.
Kenai River early-run king salmon sonar passage counts and Russian River sockeye salmon weir counts are available via a Soldotna recorded telephone hotline at (907) 262-9097 and online on our “Fish Counts” web site, below.
Anglers are reminded to check the Southcentral sport fishing regulation booklet summary before fishing as the water they intend to fish may have regulations not mentioned here.
Salmon – Kenai, Kasilof and Russian rivers

In the Kenai River, king salmon fishing is reported to be fair. According to our creel survey, king salmon catch estimates decreased slightly over the weekend, likely due to turbid water conditions. Several anglers reported that, compared to last week, fishing success did decline; however, anglers are still catching king salmon.
Anglers can expect the Kenai River early-run king salmon fishery to remain fair for the next several days as the early run enters the final week.
In the Kasilof River, king salmon fishing was fair over the weekend, but remember that the numbers of king salmon entering the Kasilof, as well as fishing success, typically declines in the last week of June.
Kasilof River anglers fishing from the river bank at the Crooked Creek State Recreation Site are also catching a few sockeye (red) salmon. Approximately 28,438 sockeye are now estimated to have passed the Kasilof River sonar station since estmation began on June 15. Typically, larger numbers of sockeye salmon need to be present to provide good sport fishing, which usually happens from the end of June to the beginning of July. Consequently, anglers can expect sockeye fishing in the Kasilof to improve.
The ADF&G Russian River sockeye salmon fishery is rated as good. Anglers fishing the Russian River Sanctuary Area as well as the Kenai River immediately downstream of the Russian River Ferry crossing are reporting success. Anglers should expect a lot of people, but decent fishing throughout the week. Russian River sockeye fishing usually declines in late June and early July, but fishing can still be good.
Don’t forget to chop up your filleted fish carcasses and throw them into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears by fish carcass build-up. Anglers are also reminded to stay on established trails in the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service parking and campground areas.
Resident Fish — Kenai River

Fishing for rainbow trout in the Kenai River watershed is reported as fair to good. Several drift boat anglers are now fishing the Upper Kenai River between Skilak and Kenai lakes. This fishery will improve as the rainbows move into summer feeding areas. Rainbow trout fishing below Skilak Lake is reported to be good.
Almost every stream has different regulations for rainbow / steelhead trout. Anglers need to review and understand the regulations before fishing.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is reported to be fair in those parts of the Kenai drainage that are open. Typically, Dolly Varden are incidentally caught by anglers targeting rainbow trout.
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Anglers have reported some rainbow / steelhead catches incidental to fishing for king salmon; however, these fish have completed spawning and survivors are returning to the ocean to feed.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before release.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent for fishing both the stocked and wild lakes. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes.
Anglers have reported that lake trout fishing in area lakes is slowing down. Lake trout found in shallower waters during spring have moved into deep water as the water temperatures have increased. Trolling in deep water, with the aid of downriggers, using spoons, plugs or spinning rigs tipped with bait may still be productive. Anglers should fish deep water and cover a large area to have success at locating a lake trout or two. Tustumena, Hidden, Skilak and Kenai lakes provide lake trout fishing opportunities.
Northern Pike

Stormy and Scout lakes are recommended for northern pike fishing.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Hooligan (smelt) fishing in the Kenai River closed at midnight, June 15, for the rest of the year.
The personal use set net fishery near the mouth of the Kasilof is now closed.
Personal use dipnetting at the mouth of the Kasilof started today, June 25. Personal use dipnetting at the mouth of the Kenai starts July 10. Please read pages 16 – 18 of your Southcentral Alaska regulation booklet.
You must hold a 2007 Alaskan resident sport fishing license (or ADF&G senior license or ADF&G Disabled Veteran’s license) as well as a free permit in order to use a dipnet or gill net. The free permits are widely available at grocery stores, tackle shops, and sporting goods stores.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  6/26
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Russian River
SPECIES:  Reds

REPORT: Fishing is still good and they are all chrome. The secret is to find the right spot. I was with people that didn't catch anything but my buddy and I was hooking them one after another. Darn Russian flies couldn't hold on to a lot of them. Still was able to land my limit.

[AOJ: NOTE: While the Fish & Wildlife officers are handing out tickets for anglers who are not adhering to the 3 Foot Rule (i.e. all gear, clothes, food, snacks, stringers, coolers, must be within 3 feet of the angler to prevent bears learning that is a food source) I have heard they are also checking HOOK SIZES for anglers' flies. Please recognize that the RUSSIAN/KENAI Fly Fishing Only area and all of the Russian drainage has a maximum hook size of 3/8 inch gap from point to shank. In other parts of the Kenai River mainstem there isn't a hook size for flies. Also any weights on your leader for the FFO and Russian area must be a minimum of 18 inches ABOVE the hook/fly. I know a lot of L48ers read these reports before coming up who may not be aware of these regulations. Good Fishing!]
 

[Beagle]

And if it ain't hooked in the mouth, it's consdered snagged. Toss it back. I had a buddy that use to ties Russian Fly's with 4/0 hooks.

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for August 07, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
2-KS-1-12-07
2-RS-1-15-07
2-RS-1-20-07
2-RS-1-26-07
2-RS-1-30-07
2-RS-1-31-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders
Two Emergency Orders expire tonight at midnight. The Kasilof River Emergency Orders that increased the sport fishing limit to 6 per day and 6 in possession expires tonight at midnight, and the Emergency Order that increased the Kasilof River dipnetting area also expires tonight at midnight.
The Emergency Order that increases the Kenai River sockeye (red) salmon limit remains in effect through December 31. This Emergency Order increases the limit for Kenai River salmon (other than kings) to 6 per day and 6 in possession, except in the fly-fishing-only areas of the Russian River and Kenai River, where the bag and possession limit remains 3 per day and 3 in possession.
There are two reaches of the Kenai River, near ADF&G research fish wheels, that are closed to all sport fishing:
150 feet near river mile 19; closed through August 20, or until the fish wheels are removed.
300 feet near river mile 28; closed through October 5, or until the fish wheels are removed.
If you’re fishing the Russian River area, don’t forget that the land managers have regulations regarding food storage and possession of refuse. In addition, the Kenai National Wildlife refuge has closed a small wooded section near the Russian River ferry parking lot. Specific information regarding these regulations can be found at Russian River facilities and by contacting either the Seward Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest, or the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Please remember to “Stop, chop and throw” your filleted fish carcasses into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears to fish carcasses piling up along the shores.
In the fly-fishing only waters of the Russian River and Kenai River, the gap between the point of the hook and the shank of the hook can be no greater than 3/8 of an inch.
Russian River sockeye salmon weir counts are available via a Soldotna recorded telephone hotline at (907) 262-9097 and online on our “Fish Counts” web site, below.
Anglers are reminded to check the Southcentral sport fishing regulation booklet summary before fishing, as the water they intend to fish has many regulations not mentioned here.
Salmon – Kenai, Kasilof and Russian rivers

The Kenai and Kasilof rivers are now closed to king salmon fishing for the remainder of 2007. Anglers targeting other species should not attempt to land king salmon if they take the bait because it is illegal to attempt to take king salmon during the closed season.
Anglers can expect the Kenai River coho (silver) salmon fishery to improve as August progresses. Some coho salmon have already been caught in the lower Kenai River. Try fishing the holes downstream of the Pillars boat launch.
Sockeye salmon continue to enter the Kenai River. The total sonar estimate as of Monday, August 6 is 652,617 sockeye. Anglers fishing throughout the Kenai River had fair success last week. Fishing should remain fair for the next several days.
In the Kasilof River, coho salmon will be returning throughout August and into September. Fish the lower Kasilof River for silvers, as they are just starting to move into the river.
Sockeye salmon are also still entering the Kasilof in small numbers. They can be caught by those anglers willing to put in the time to catch them. Through Monday, August 6, a total of 317,623 sockeye salmon are estimated to have returned to the Kasilof. The most recent estimate, on Monday, August 6, was 2,465 sockeye salmon.
The Russian River sockeye salmon fishery is rated as fair and the Russian and Kenai rivers confluence area is rated as fair to good. Anglers fishing the Russian River Sanctuary Area as well as the Kenai River immediately downstream of the Russian River ferry crossing are reporting success. Try fishing the first few hours of each day and late in the evening, while the sockeye are moving.
Don’t forget to chop up your filleted fish carcasses and throw them into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears by fish carcass build-up. Anglers are also reminded to stay on established trails in the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service parking and campground areas.
Resident Fish — Kenai - Russian Rivers

Fishing for rainbow trout in the Kenai River watershed is reported as good. Several drift boat anglers are now fishing the Upper Kenai River between Skilak and Kenai lakes. This fishery will remain good throughout the summer. Rainbow trout fishing below Skilak Lake downstream to the Sterling Highway bridge in Soldotna is also reported to be good.
Rainbow trout fishing in the Russian River is good.
Almost every stream has different regulations for rainbow / steelhead trout. Anglers need to review and understand the regulations before fishing.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is reported to be fair in those parts of the Kenai drainage that are open. Typically, Dolly Varden are incidentally caught by anglers targeting rainbow trout.
Sockeye salmon have found their way to the Quartz Creek drainage and fishing for Dolly Varden in this system should now be good (the drainage is closed to salmon fishing).
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Anglers are catching some Dolly Varden while fishing for coho salmon.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before release.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent for fishing both the stocked and wild lakes. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes. Anglers fishing the Kenai area’s stocked lakes are reminded to respect the private properties near the access sites, and to pack out garbage they may have.
Few anglers fish for lake trout in mid-summer. Lake trout are found in deep water in the summer. Trolling in deep water, with the aid of downriggers, using spoons, plugs, crank-baits or spinning rigs tipped with bait may be productive. Anglers should fish deep water and cover a large area to have success at locating a lake trout or two. Tustumena, Hidden, Skilak and Kenai lakes provide lake trout fishing opportunities. Angler participation in these fisheries is low and those willing to give it a try often have the most of the lake to themselves.
Northern Pike

Stormy and Scout lakes are recommended for fishing for northern pike.
A 20.42-pound northern pike was caught the first week of July from Stormy Lake.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Personal use dipnetting at the Kenai River is now closed for the rest of the year.
Personal use dipnetting at the Kasilof River closes at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, August 7. Please read pages 16-18 of your Southcentral Alaska regulation booklet.
All permits must be returned to ADF&G by August 15, or postmarked by August 15. Permits must be returned even if you did not go dipnetting. Just check the box that says “Check this box if no one in your household fished.” Permits must also be returned even if you went dipnetting but did not catch any fish. You can mail them or drop them off.
If you’ve lost your permit, send a letter to ADF&G with the dates of your dipnetting, how many fish you caught, and where you went dipnetting. Be sure your name and address is on the letter, so we can match it to the permit.

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for August 13, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
2-KS-1-12-07
2-RS-1-15-07
2-RS-1-20-07
2-RS-1-26-07
2-RS-1-30-07
2-RS-1-31-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, one Emergency Order is in effect for this area:
The Kenai River salmon limits are six per day and six in possession, only two per day and two in possession may be coho (silver) salmon. This increase does not apply to the Russian River and Russian/Kenai River fly-fishing-only area, where the limit remains three per day and three in possession.
There are two reaches of the Kenai River, near ADF&G research fish wheels, that are closed to all sport fishing:
150 feet near river mile 19; closed through August 20 or until the fish wheels are removed.
300 feet near river mile 28; closed through October 5 or until the fish wheels are removed.
If you’re fishing the Russian River area, don’t forget that the land managers have regulations regarding food storage and possession of refuse. In addition, the Kenai National Wildlife refuge has closed a small wooded section near the Russian River ferry parking lot. Specific information regarding these regulations can be found at Russian River facilities and by contacting either the Seward Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest, or the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Please remember to “Stop, chop and throw” your filleted fish carcasses into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears to fish carcasses piling up along the shores.
In the fly-fishing only waters of the Russian River and Kenai River, the gap between the point of the hook and the shank of the hook can be no greater than 3/8 of an inch.
Russian River sockeye salmon weir counts are available via a Soldotna recorded telephone hotline at (907) 262-9097 and online on our “Fish Counts” web site, below.
Anglers are reminded to check the Southcentral sport fishing regulation booklet summary before fishing as the water they intend to fish has many regulations not mentioned here.
Salmon – Kenai, Kasilof and Russian rivers

The Kenai and Kasilof rivers are now closed to king salmon fishing for the remainder of 2007. Anglers targeting other species should not attempt to land king salmon if they take the bait because it is illegal to attempt to take king salmon during the closed season.
Anglers can expect the Kenai River coho salmon fishery to improve as August progresses. Coho salmon are now distributed throughout the Kenai River downstream of Skilak Lake. Some coho have been caught between Skilak and Bing’s Landing, but for best success, try fishing the holes downstream of the Soldotna Bridge. Fishing in the early morning hours and late evenings have been producing good catches.
Sockeye (red) salmon fishing has been fair to good recently. As of Sunday, August 12, the cumulative sonar estimate for Kenai River late-run sockeye is 764,200 with Sunday’s estimate of 22,493 fish. There should be some good fishing for the next several days as these fish move upstream and more enter the river.
In the Kasilof River, coho salmon return in August and September. Fish the lower Kasilof River for coho as they are just starting to show up in decent numbers.
Sockeye salmon are still entering the Kasilof in small numbers and can be caught by those anglers willing to put in the time to catch them. Through August 12, the cumulative sonar estimate for Kasilof River sockeye salmon is 337,163 with Sunday’s estimate of 2,410 sockeye salmon. The Kasilof River sonar station will probably close this week.
The Russian River sockeye salmon fishery is rated as fair and the Russian / Kenai confluence area is rated as fair to good. Anglers fishing the Russian River Sanctuary Area as well as the Kenai River immediately downstream of the Russian River ferry crossing are reporting success. Try fishing the first few hours of each day and late in the evening, while the sockeye are moving. The August 12 daily count through the weir was 1,838 fish, which brings the season cumulative to 24,774 sockeye salmon. The limit remains three per day.
Don’t forget to chop up your filleted fish carcasses and throw them into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears by fish carcass build-up. Anglers are also reminded to stay on established trails in the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service parking and campground areas.
Resident Fish — Kenai - Russian Rivers

Fishing for rainbow trout in the Kenai River watershed is reported as good. Several drift boat anglers are now fishing the Upper Kenai River between Skilak and Kenai lakes. This fishery will remain good throughout the summer. Rainbow trout fishing below Skilak Lake downstream to the Soldotna Bridge is also reported to be good.
Rainbow trout fishing in Russian River is also rated as very good.
Almost every stream has different regulations for rainbow / steelhead trout. Anglers need to review and understand the regulations before fishing.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is reported to be fair in those parts of the Kenai drainage that are open. Typically, Dolly Varden are incidentally caught by anglers targeting rainbow trout.
Sockeye salmon have found their way to the Quartz Creek drainage, so fishing for Dolly Varden in this system should now be good.
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Anglers are catching some Dolly Varden while fishing for coho salmon.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before release.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent for fishing both the stocked and wild lakes. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes. Anglers fishing the Kenai area’s stocked lakes are reminded to respect the private properties near the access sites, and to pack out garbage they may have.
Few anglers fish for lake trout in mid-summer. Lake trout are found in deep water in the summer. Trolling in deep water, with the aid of downriggers, using spoons, plugs, crank-baits or spinning rigs tipped with bait may be productive. Anglers should fish deep water and cover a large area to have success at locating a lake trout or two. Tustumena, Hidden, Skilak and Kenai lakes provide lake trout fishing opportunities. Angler participation in these fisheries is low and those willing to give it a try often have the most of the lake to themselves.
Northern Pike

Stormy and Scout lakes are recommended for fishing for northern pike.
A 20.42-pound northern pike was caught the first week of July from Stormy Lake.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Personal use dipnetting on the Kenai Peninsula is closed for 2007.
All dipnet permits must be returned to ADF&G, or postmarked, by August 15. Permits can be dropped off in person, or mailed to the address below.
If the permit was lost, please send a letter with the dates of dipnetting, how many fish were caught, the name of the river, and your name and address to Personal Use Salmon Permits, 333 Raspberry Road, Anchorage, AK 99518. Dipnet permits cannot be accepted over the telephone.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  8/15
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kenai River
SPECIES:  Coho

REPORT: 3 of us fished from 5 pm to 9:30 pm - fished Falling In Hole down to Beaver Creek and the X-Over. Pulled wrapped plugs and bounced eggs. Not a take-down or a solid strike. Did not see any other fish caught including the guide boats that were still out. Where are the Coho??
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  8/19
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Russian River
SPECIES:  Reds/Silvers

REPORT: Fishing to Die for...

Well it finally happened. My daughter wanted to hit the Russian for some last minute fly fishing. We left the house at 3 PM for the drive down. Passed a steady stream of cars heading north till we were about 5 miles above the Hope cut off. I saw a Maroon Dodge Neon in my lane about 3/4 miles up. I had my lights on an was the only car in my lane on this two lane section. The guy was trying to pass a long string of cars under a double yellow line!! I started to brake and told my daughter to hold on, the guy in the Neon must not have seen me because about 500 yards out he locked up the brakes and began to swerve out of control, at this point all I am thinking about is how can I minimize the impact when we hit each other. As he is coming closer I begin to inch towards the other traffic since they are starting to react to what is going on, the bottom line is the Neon passed me on my passenger side about 5 feet away while a camper in the oncoming traffic passed down my drivers side about 3 feet away. The guy in the Neon proceeded out of control into the grass on my side of the road and then back into the south bound lane to try to finish passing everyone. I had to stop for about 30 seconds to collect myself and peel my fingers off the steering wheel.

The traffic was moving at a good clip back to Anchorage but the guy in the Neon just had to go 70 instead of 65 and we almost paid the price.

Fishing on the Russian was good, we landed 6 fish and took home a nice silver. We saw many people leaving with their limit and there was a lot of room to fish. No sign of bears while we were there between the ferry and mouth of the Russian. We will be back this weekend.

I have to send my thanks out to all the drivers who gave me some room, if I pulled off the road we would be a statistic now.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  8/21
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Lower Kenai
SPECIES:  Silver Salmon

REPORT: Like walking into a dark room and then someone turns on the lights ......

On Tuesday, 8/21 I took three guests out to fish from the Pillars on down to Beaver creek. We soaked eggs for five and a half hours and only picked up two silvers. Both were fresh but action in the area was slow. Did see a couple of boats with moderate action but ours wasn't one of them. A light sprinkle from time to time but a nice day on the river with great temperature.

Back out on the 22nd at 8:00 AM with high tide being around 1:00 PM. We soaked eggs again only the fishing was really hot. We had our limit in three hours and the fish were all nice and fresh and eager to take the eggs. Saw lots of limits come in all around us as well. Even tried a K14 kwik fish and hit one on that as well - just a trial for us as we saw others using them. Still sprinkling a little but temperature of the river was at 53 degrees and pefect fishing weather with overcast skies. I think maybe the run is materializing finally.

[AOJ: Sure hope so. I just updated the coho charts last night for Anchor, Deshka, and Little Su plus the Russian and all four of those runs are the worst I've seen them since I've been keeping/charting the data. Some for ten years or more. Definitely something amiss 'across the board' with no coho fishery I've heard of doing more than mediocre on a day here and there and overall returns 50-70% below average run size. Might be time to focus on moose, grouse and caribou for supplementing the freezer for winter. ]
 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for August 20, 2007
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-NP-1-01-07
2-RT-1-04-07
2-KS-1-03-07
2-KS-1-07-07
2-KS-1-12-07
2-RS-1-15-07
2-RS-1-20-07
2-RS-1-26-07
2-RS-1-30-07
2-RS-1-31-07
 
 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, one Emergency Order is in effect for this area. An Emergency Order has been issued to increase the daily limit for salmon to 6 per day and 6 in possession; only 2 per day and 2 in possession can be coho (silver) salmon.
This Emergency Order increase does not apply to the Russian River / Upper Kenai River fly-fishing-only area as defined on page 53 of the Southcentral Alaska regulation booklet, where the limit remains 3 per day and 3 in possession.
The Russian River / Upper Kenai River fly-fishing-only area closes to sockeye (red) salmon fishing at 11:59 p.m., Monday, August 20, for the rest of the year. This area remains open to fishing for coho, pink, and chum salmon, as well as rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Special regulations apply, please check the regulation booklet.
The fly-fishing-only restriction in this area also ends at 11:59 p.m., Monday, August 20. After this time, legal tackle in this area is one unbaited single-pointed hook with gap between point and shank no larger than 3/8 inch. Also after August 20, beads may be used in this area as long as they are either fixed within 2 inches of the hook, or free to slide on the entire length of the line or leader.
There are some special regulations for coho salmon in the Kenai and Russian rivers:
The limit for coho salmon in the Russian River and in the Russian River Sanctuary Area is 1 per day and 1 in possession.
After taking a bag limit of coho from the Kenai River, a person may not fish in the Kenai River downstream of the Soldotna Bridge that same day.
Upstream from the confluence of the Moose and Kenai rivers, fishing for coho salmon from a guide vessel is prohibited on Mondays. Any coho salmon caught must be immediately released.
Two reaches of the Kenai River remain closed to sport fishing near research fish wheels:
75 feet upstream and downstream of the Kenai River near river mile 19.5. Closed until 11:59 p.m., Monday, August 20, or until the fish wheels are removed.
300 feet upstream and downstream of the Kenai River near river mile 28. Closed through October 5, or until the fish wheels are removed.
Don’t forget to chop up your filleted fish carcasses and throw them into deep, fast-moving waters to prevent attracting bears by fish carcass build-up.
Russian River anglers are also reminded to stay on established trails in the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service parking and campground areas.
Please check the Southcentral sport fishing regulation booklet summary before fishing as the water you intend to fish may have additional regulations not mentioned here.
Salmon – Kenai, Kasilof and Russian rivers

Anglers can expect the Kenai River coho salmon fishery to improve as August progresses. Coho salmon are now distributed throughout the Kenai River, and their numbers are increasing. Good numbers of coho salmon are now being caught between Skilak Lake and Bing’s Landing. Also try fishing the holes downstream of the Soldotna Bridge as well as the waters downstream of Skilak Lake for the best chance of catching a limit. Fishing in the early morning hours and late evenings, when the fish are moving, produces good catches.
Coho salmon have also reached the Upper Kenai River. Don’t forget that there are special regulations for coho in this area.
In the Kasilof River, coho salmon return throughout August and into September. Fish the lower Kasilof River, as they are just starting to show up in decent numbers.
Sockeye salmon fishing has been only fair recently. The returns of late-run sockeye salmon to the Kenai and Kasilof rivers are winding down for 2007.
Resident Fish — Kenai - Russian Rivers

Fishing for rainbow trout in the Kenai River watershed is reported as good. Several drift boat anglers are now fishing the Upper Kenai River between Skilak and Kenai lakes. This fishery will remain good throughout the summer. Rainbow trout fishing downstream of Skilak Lake to the Soldotna Bridge is also reported to be good.
Rainbow trout fishing in Russian River is also rated as very good.
Almost every stream has different regulations for rainbow / steelhead trout. Anglers need to review and understand the regulations before fishing.
Fishing for Dolly Varden is reported to be fair in those parts of the Kenai drainage that are open. Typically, Dolly Varden are incidentally caught by anglers targeting rainbow trout.
Sockeye salmon have found their way to the Quartz Creek drainage and fishing for Dolly Varden in this system should now be good.
Resident Fish — Kasilof River

Anglers are catching some Dolly Varden while fishing for coho salmon.
All rainbow/steelhead trout caught downstream of the Sterling Highway bridge must be immediately released without removing them from the water before release.
Lake Fishing

Opportunities are excellent for fishing both the stocked and wild lakes. See below for links to stocking information, as well as maps to the area lakes. Anglers fishing the Kenai area’s stocked lakes are reminded to respect the private properties near the access sites, and to pack out garbage they may have.
Few anglers fish for lake trout in mid-summer. Lake trout are found in deep water in the summer. Trolling in deep water, with the aid of downriggers, using spoons, plugs, crank-baits or spinning rigs tipped with bait may be productive. Anglers should fish deep water and cover a large area to have success at locating a lake trout or two. Tustumena, Hidden, Skilak and Kenai lakes provide lake trout fishing opportunities. Angler participation in these fisheries is low and those willing to give it a try often have the most of the lake to themselves.
Northern Pike

Stormy and Scout lakes are recommended for fishing for northern pike.
A 20.42-pound northern pike was caught the first week of July from Stormy Lake.
Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.
Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spinning, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.
There is no closed season for pike, and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply, so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.
Personal Use

Personal use dipnetting on the Kenai Peninsula is closed for 2007. Please return your permit as soon as possible.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  10/13
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Quartz Creek
SPECIES:  Rainbows

REPORT: Hit Quartz Creek early Saturday. Weather very cold, fish were not moving much. Saw some decent Rainbows at hole near bridge hanging behind some old, tired Reds. Fished from the bridge down to the mouth and finally landed a nice, fat 24 inch Rainbow at the mouth. Mostly used flesh flies and the big fish was landed on an orange and white flesh fly. It was cold. Decided to head back to Anchorage instead of sleeping at the campground.
 
Thanks to AOJ for that report

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  10-/13
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kenai middle
SPECIES:  Rainbows

REPORT: Fished middle river last Saturday. Definitely getting a bit of a chill in the air. Caught some nice fish between 22 and 32. Super Hole caught my first 32 inch 'bow. A beaut. No marks at all Dime bright with a blush of red on gill plate almost look like a steelhead. Fished hard to get them. But they are there. Last fish of the day was a 28 incher one eyed monster deep green and a heck of a fighter. See ya next week.
Thanks to AOJ for that report