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

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  10/27
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  Steelhead, Silvers

REPORT: Fished from the lake down to the bridge and managed a few to the net but that was a bonus. Had a good time with very little company....makes it nice to be so QUIET. I think I will go back tomorrow.
 
thanks to aoj for that report

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  11/1
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kenai
SPECIES:  Rainbows

REPORT: Spent two nights on the bank of the Kenai river fishing out of the drift boat for one last time this year, caught some nice fish the biggest was around 30” with lots of 20” to 26” fish. It was a very good trip with no bear problems, good weather, great food and the fishing wasn’t half bad.

thanks to AOJ for that report
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  11/11
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Various
SPECIES:  Trout/Dollies

REPORT: Took what could be the last trip of the year down to the Kenai and fished some of the smaller tributaries. Had some luck and caught some hogs in the snow. Enjoyed the peaceful surroundings and quiet more than the fishing quite honestly. It is so rare to find myself alone on a river anymore that I almost forgot how great it was. I could tell you where I caught the most but then I wouldn't be alone next year would I? Go explore and enjoy, they are still there.

thanks to aoj for that report
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  4/12
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  Steelies

REPORT: Snow still covering Crooked Creek. Walked out today, seen a few guys no fish. Fished off the edge of ice at the outlet of Crooked Creek. No takers just a nice day, try again in a couple of weeks. Water low.

thanks to aoj for that report
 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for May 05, 2008 

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of May 5 to May 11

Issued May 5, 2008

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

• At this time, no Emergency Orders are in effect for this area.

• Flowing waters are now closed to sport fishing by regulation. Popular fishing areas that are closed to all fishing include that portion of the Kenai River between the Upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake. Additionally, the Upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake is also closed by regulation. These waters will reopen to fishing on Wednesday, June 11. Anglers are reminded to check the regulation summary booklet as the water they intend to fish may be closed to all fishing.

• The 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary Booklet is available at Department of Fish and Game Offices as well as fishing license vendors throughout the Northern Kenai Peninsula Area.

• A news release was issued on February 26, 2008 which summarized regulations changes made by the Board of Fisheries. These new regulations will be in effect for the 2008 season. Please review the regulation booklet before fishing in 2008 and follow the first link list at the bottom of this page to read the news release summary of the regulation changes made by the Board of Fisheries.

• Most area lakes are ice covered however, they should be ice-free soon. Generally, many area lakes will be ice free by the end of the first week of the month of May. Twenty-seven lakes are stocked, while natural production of rainbow trout and lake trout in other lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities at the time the ice goes-out on area lakes.

Salmon – Kenai & Kasilof Rivers

• It’s too early yet for king salmon fishing in the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers, anglers typically start catching king salmon by early to mid May.

Resident Fish — Kenai River

• Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from May 2 through June 10. Flowing waters in the Kenai River watershed will reopen to fishing for rainbow trout on June 11.

Resident Fish — Kasilof River

• Most fishing opportunity is in the ‘slack water’ area immediately below the Tustumena Lake outlet. Fishing is slow although a few lake trout and Dolly Varden have been caught.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula Lakes provide great fishing opportunity while flowing waters are closed to fishing. The warmer weather and the recent overnight temperatures above freezing is causing the ice to begin to pull away from the shoreline and give anglers some open water fishing opportunity. Look for many Kenai Peninsula Area lakes to become ice-free this week. The following is a 4 step description of how lake ice melts.

1. Around March, as the air warms and the sun gets more intense, the snow melts, allowing light to penetrate the ice. Because the ice acts like the glass in a greenhouse, the water beneath it begins to warm, and the ice begins to melt FROM THE BOTTOM.

2. When the ice thickness erodes to between 4 and 12 inches, it transforms into long vertical crystals called "candles." These conduct light even better, so the ice starts to look black, because it is not reflecting much sunlight.

3. Warming continues because the light energy is being transferred to the water below the ice. Melt water fills in between the crystals, which begin breaking apart. The surface appears grayish as the ice reflects a bit more light than before.

4. The wind comes up, and breaks the surface apart. The candles will often be blown to one side of the lake, making a tinkling sound as they knock against one another, and pile up on the shore. In hours, a sparkling blue lake, once again!

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has good numbers of northern pike and the lake has good public access. The lake is still mostly ice covered; however it is deteriorating with the warmer weather. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula need to put Stormy Lake on your early season list to fish at ice out, which should occur by the weekend.

• 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, spin, 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.

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for May 19, 2008 

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of May 19 to May 26

Issued May 19, 2008

 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

• At this time, no Emergency Orders are in effect for this area.

• Flowing waters are closed to sport fishing for rainbow trout by regulation. Popular fishing areas that are closed to all sport fishing include that portion of the Kenai River between the Upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake. Additionally, the Upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake are closed to all sport fishing. These waters will reopen to fishing and rainbow trout fishing on Wednesday, June 11. Anglers are reminded to check the regulation booklet as the water they intend to fish may be closed to fishing.

• Several new regulations are in effect for Kenai Peninsula sport fisheries and anglers are reminded to read the regulations before fishing.

• A news release was issued on February 26, 2008 which summarized regulation changes made by the Board of Fisheries. These new regulations will be in effect for the 2008 season. Please review the regulation booklet before fishing in 2008 and follow the first link listed below (2008 regulation changes) to read the news release summary of the regulation changes made by the Board of Fisheries.

• Most area lakes are ice-free. Twenty-seven lakes are stocked, while natural production of rainbow trout and lake trout in other lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities during early spring after the ice has gone-out on area lakes. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake, the lake trout bag and possession limit is one lake trout.

• Two stroke motors are prohibited in the Kenai River personal-use dipnet fishery. During the Kenai River personal-use dipnet fishery, fish may not be taken from a boat powered by a two stroke motor, other than one which is direct fuel injection (DFI). Only boats powered by four-stroke motors, two-stroke DFI, or electric motors are allowed in the personal-use dipnet fishery. However, there are no horse power size restrictions on these motors below river mile 4, which is approximately 1 mile below the Warren Ames Bridge. For information regarding boat and motor restrictions above river mile 4, contact the Department of Natural Resources at (907) 262-5581 or the Kenai River Center at (907) 260-4882.

Salmon 

Kenai & Kasilof rivers

• It’s early yet for good king salmon fishing in the Kenai and Kasilof rivers.

• Anglers fishing last week for king salmon experienced slow fishing in both rivers. Historically the numbers of early run king salmon moving into the rivers increases as the month of May progresses. So anglers can expect fishing to improve.

• 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.

Kenai River

• Several new regulations are in effect for the Kenai River early run king salmon fishery. Anglers are reminded to read the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary.

• The Departments early run king salmon monitoring programs began last week and information about Kenai River early run king salmon sonar passage estimates are available via phone at 262-2737 and online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below.

Kasilof River

• Several new regulations are in effect for the Kasilof River king salmon fishery. Anglers are reminded to read the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary.

• Bait is allowed in the Kasilof River downstream of the Sterling Highway Bridge.

• The Departments early run king salmon creel survey program began last week. Fishing was reported to be slow as only a few king salmon were caught.

Resident Fish 

Kenai River

• Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from May 2 through June 10. Flowing waters in the Kenai River watershed will reopen to fishing for rainbow trout on June 11. Anglers should read the regulations as several areas are closed to all sport fishing until June 11. Resident Fish — Kasilof River

• Most fishing opportunity is in the ‘slack water’ area immediately below the Tustumena Lake outlet. Fishing is slow although a few lake trout and Dolly Varden have been caught.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula Lakes provide great fishing opportunity while flowing waters are closed to fishing. Many Kenai Peninsula Area lakes are now open and free of ice. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake, the lake trout bag and possession limit is one lake trout.

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has good numbers of northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake for spring 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, spin, 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.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/18
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  Kings


REPORT: Floated the Kasilof Sunday from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, 8-10 boats on the river. Saw one hatchery king approx. 22 pounds caught at the people hole. ADF&G at the takeout confirmed two fish caught among all boats, one hatchery and one other wild fish released. Saw no action from the eight bank anglers. Plenty of dolly varden stealing eggs. Very low, slow & cold water.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/18
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Saltwater off Anchor Point
SPECIES:  Kings

REPORT: They are a coming! My business partner was fishing with friends off the Anchor River this weekend and hooked 4 and landed three on Sunday morning. Two were females loaded with mature eggs. Probably Anchor River bound. Saw lots of fish get caught. All in the 15-35lb ranges. Trolling cut herring was bait of choice.
 

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/16
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  Kings

REPORT: The Fiance' and I headed down for the opener of bait on Thurs evening. Reports from the few on the river that day were not very encouraging. Water levels very low and somewhat off colored for the 'norm' spring.

Friday morning up at 4:00am to a grand total of 2 boats in Cohoe Cove and no fish. 5:00 am they pulled out and I decided to at least knock the dust off the oars. Pulling up to the top of the 'cove' I let the diver/egg combo out and 10 minutes later was doing battle with a nice little buck of approx 15-16 lbs w/ 8 fins on it. I saw a total of 6 fish caught that day that were all 'natives'....

Saturday was even slower, a few more boats and alot less fish activity. Fished for a few hours and the only fish we saw happened to be a cute little girl fishy of an honest 20 lbs that took a liking to the Fiance's combo. A quick squirmish and we had the first keeper of the season. 2 takedowns and 2 to the boat for 100%... hmm maybe i should call it quits while I'm ahead...... nah, the boat company was too good regardless of the fishin'.

 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for May 27, 2008 

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of May 26 to June 1

Issued May 27, 2008

 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

• At this time, no Emergency Orders are in effect for this area.

• Flowing waters are closed to sport fishing for rainbow trout by regulation. Popular fishing areas that are closed to all sport fishing include that portion of the Kenai River between the Upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake. Additionally, the Upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake are closed to all sport fishing. These waters will reopen to fishing and rainbow trout fishing on Wednesday, June 11. Anglers are reminded to check the regulation booklet as the water they intend to fish may be closed to fishing.

• Several new regulations are in effect for Kenai Peninsula sport fisheries and anglers are reminded to read the regulations before fishing.

• A news release was issued on February 26, 2008 which summarized regulation changes made by the Board of Fisheries. These new regulations will be in effect for the 2008 season. Please review the regulation booklet before fishing in 2008 and follow the first link listed below (2008 regulation changes) to read the news release summary of the regulation changes made by the Board of Fisheries.

• Twenty-seven lakes are stocked, while natural production of rainbow trout and lake trout in other lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities during early spring after the ice has gone-out on area lakes. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake, the lake trout bag and possession limit is one lake trout.

• Two stroke motors are prohibited in the Kenai River personal-use dipnet fishery. During the Kenai River personal-use dipnet fishery, fish may not be taken from a boat powered by a two stroke motor, other than one which is direct fuel injection (DFI). Only boats powered by four-stroke motors, two-stroke DFI, or electric motors are allowed in the personal-use dipnet fishery. However, there are no horse power size restrictions on these motors below river mile 4, which is approximately 1 mile below the Warren Ames Bridge. For information regarding boat and motor restrictions above river mile 4, contact the Department of Natural Resources at (907) 262-5581 or the Kenai River Center at (907) 260-4882.

• The Kenai River personal use smelt gillnet fishery closes at 11:59 p.m., Saturday, May 31. Fishing by gillnet is allowed from the mouth of the Kenai River upstream to an ADF&G marker located at Cunningham Park. Regulations for this fishery can be found on page 17 of the 2008 Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for Southcentral Alaska.

Salmon

Kenai & Kasilof rivers

• King salmon fishing in the Kenai and Kasilof rivers was reported to be slow in both rivers over the Memorial Holiday weekend.

• Historically the numbers of early run king salmon moving into the rivers increases as the month of May progresses. So anglers can expect the numbers of king salmon present in both rivers to continue to increase and fishing should improve.

• 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.

Kenai River

• Several new regulations are in effect for the Kenai River early run king salmon fishery. Anglers are reminded to read the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary.

• The Departments early run king salmon monitoring programs indicate that run is beginning to gain momentum as the total number of king salmon in the river continues to increase. The number of anglers fishing has been relatively low and fishing success has been only been fair to date.

• Information about Kenai River early run king salmon sonar passage estimates are available via phone at 262-9097 and online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below.

Kasilof River

• Several new regulations are in effect for the Kasilof River king salmon fishery. Anglers are reminded to read the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary.

• The Departments early run king salmon creel survey program indicated that fishing for king salmon was slow this past weekend.

Resident Fish 

Kenai River

• Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from May 2 through June 10. Flowing waters in the Kenai River watershed will reopen to fishing for rainbow trout on June 11. Anglers should read the regulations as several areas are closed to all sport fishing until June 11. 

Kasilof River

• Most fishing opportunity is in the ‘slack water’ area immediately below the Tustumena Lake outlet. Fishing is slow although a few lake trout and Dolly Varden have been caught.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula Lakes provide great fishing opportunity while flowing waters are closed to fishing. Many Kenai Peninsula Area lakes are now open and free of ice. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake, the lake trout bag and possession limit is one lake trout.

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has good numbers of northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake for spring 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, spin, 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.

[silversalmon]

TRIP DATE:  5/27
REGION:  Kenai Peninsula
WATER:  Kasilof River
SPECIES:  Kings

REPORT: Fished the morning bite, caught one on eggs at Cohoe Cove, guides were picking up a few fish now and again. Not hot by any means but fishable. We went for the weather the fish was a bonus.
 

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for July 01, 2008 King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-KS-1-07-08
2-RS-1-13-08
 
 

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of June 30 to July 6

Issued July 1, 2008

 

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, two Emergency Orders are in effect for this area:

• The most recent opens the Russian River Sanctuary Area to fishing beginning Thursday, June 26 at 8:00 a.m. The bag and possession limit remains three (3) sockeye salmon. For a description of The Russian River Sanctuary Area see page 51 of the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fish Regulation Summary Booklet.

• Another Emergency Order allows anglers to fish with bait in the Kenai River king salmon fishery from a point approximately 100 yards downstream of the confluence of the Moose and Kenai rivers. All other Kenai River special provisions, method and means, and bag and possession limits remain in effect. Anglers may only use one single-pointed hook. Anglers may keep only those king salmon that are less than 46 inches in length or 55 inches or greater in length. All other king salmon must be released immediately.

• July 1 marks the end of the early king salmon run and the start of the late king salmon run in both the Kenai and Kasilof rivers. Anglers are reminded to review the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary Booklet for several king salmon regulation changes effective July 1.

• Anglers planning to fish the Russian River are reminded to: Chop filleted fish carcasses into several small pieces (2 inches) and throw the pieces into the moving current of the river to prevent fish carcass build-up along the river. In addition, whenever possible anglers are asked to clean fish at the designated fish cleaning tables.

• Anglers are also reminded that the Russian River and Kenai River, near the Russian-Kenai rivers, confluence, have federal regulations regarding food storage, and possession of refuse in the Russian River Angler’s Trail developed recreation area and along the banks of the Russian and Kenai rivers that are part of the Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Anglers are also asked to respect the habitat restoration projects in this area and to stay on newly constructed and or the established trails. Specific information regarding federal land use regulations in this area can be found at the Russian River developed campground and Russian River Ferry facilities. Information is also available through contact with the Seward Ranger District, Chugach National Forest Headquarters and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.

• The Crescent Creek drainage, including Crescent Lake opened to fishing Tuesday, July 1.

• Two stroke motors are prohibited in the Kenai River personal-use dip net fishery. During the Kenai River personal use dip net fishery, fish may not be taken from a boat powered by a two-stroke motor, other than one which is direct fuel injection (DFI). Only boats powered by four-stroke motors, two-stroke DFI, or electric motors are allowed in the personal-use dip net fishery. However, there are no horse power size restrictions on these motors below river mile 4, which is approximately 1 mile below the Warren Ames Bridge. For information regarding boat and motor restrictions above river mile 4, contact the Department of Natural Resources at (907) 262-5581 or the Kenai River Center at (907) 260-4882. The Kenai River personal use dip net fishery opens Thursday, July 10 at 6:00 a.m. Please review the personal use regulations found on pages 16-18 of the 2008 Alaska sport fishing regulations summary for Southcentral Alaska.

Salmon

Kenai River

• The Kenai River king salmon fishing is reported to be fair. The ADF&G creel survey indicated that catches have decreased slightly over the past week, with the best fishing occurring upstream of Soldotna. Anglers fishing the early morning hours with salmon roe are having good success.

• A few sockeye salmon have been caught; however sockeye salmon fishing in the lower Kenai River is rated as poor. Information about the Kenai River sockeye salmon sonar passage estimates will be available later this week at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Information about Kenai River king salmon sonar passage estimates are available via phone at (907) 262-9097 and online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below.

Kasilof River

• This past week the Department’s early run king salmon creel survey program indicated that number of king salmon anglers are catching has declined and the fishery is rated as fair to poor. Anglers are awaiting the arrival of late run Kasilof River king salmon that begin during July. A plug wrapped with sardine is the favored technique to catch king salmon on the Kasilof and salmon roe has also been productive.

• Sockeye salmon have been returning to the Kasilof River in fishable numbers for several days. Anglers have caught sockeye salmon in the Lower Kasilof River. Information about the Kasilof River sockeye salmon sonar passage estimates is now available at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Anglers interested in targeting sockeye salmon may want to consider fishing from the shore at the Crooked Creek State of Alaska Recreation Site and fishing the Upper Kasilof River by floating and fishing the river between the ‘slack water’ public boat launch and the Sterling Highway Bridge public boat launch.

• Dipnetting success has been variable depending on influxes of sockeye salmon into the river. Many dipnetters have been having good success fishing the falling or ebbing tide.

Russian River

• Sockeye salmon fishing on the Russian River is rated as good. The Sanctuary Area is open to fishing, providing plenty of room for anglers. Anglers are having similar success fishing in both the clear waters of the Russian River and the Kenai River mainstem above and below the Russian River Ferry crossing. Anglers fishing in the Upper Kenai River between Sportsman’s and Jim’s Landing are also having good success catching sockeye salmon. Anglers need a boat to access this area of the Upper Kenai River to fish for sockeye salmon.

• The water level in the Russian River is going down, when this occurs sockeye salmon tend to hold in the Sanctuary area during the day and migrate into the Russian River during the evening and early morning hours. Anglers fishing the Kenai River near the ferry crossing during the day and those fishing the clear waters of the Russian River during the morning or evening hours are having good success.

• Information about early run sockeye salmon passage at the Russian River weir is available online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Anglers are reminded that the weir at Russian River is located upstream of the fishery and weir counts may not be a good indicator of the numbers of fish present in the area of the Russian River open to fishing.

Resident Fish — Kenai & Russian rivers

• Most anglers are targeting sockeye salmon, however fishing for rainbow trout in both rivers has been good.

• The Kenai River between the Upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake, as well as the Upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake has been providing good to excellent rainbow trout fishing.

Resident Fish — Kasilof River

• Nearly all fishing activity is for king and sockeye salmon below the Sterling Highway Bridge, where a few Dolly Varden have been caught. Anglers interested in targeting Dolly Varden may want to consider fishing the ‘slack water’ area immediately below the Tustumena Lake outlet or floating and fishing the river between the ‘slack water’ public boat launch and the Sterling Highway Bridge public boat launch.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula Lakes provide great fishing opportunity. Fishing on many of the Kenai Peninsula area lakes for rainbow trout has been good recently. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake, where the lake trout bag and possession limit is one lake trout.

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake for summer northern pike fishing.

• Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but please get permission first.

• Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spin, 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.

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for July 14, 2008
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary Kenai Area EOs
2-KS-1-07-08
2-RS-1-13-08
 
 

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of July 14 to July 20

Issued July 14, 2008

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, one Emergency Order is in effect for this area:

• Beginning July 15, anglers may keep king salmon that are 46 to 55 inches in length upstream of the Soldotna Bridge. Anglers may only use one single-pointed hook in the Kenai River.

• Anglers are reminded that seasonal riverbank closures along the Kenai River are in effect from July 1 through August 15. Anglers are asked to review pages 52 and 53 of the 2008 Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for Southcentral Alaska to become familiar with these areas.

• Two-stroke motors are prohibited in the Kenai River personal use dip net fishery. During the Kenai River personal use dip net fishery, fish may not be taken from a boat powered by a two-stroke motor, other than one which is direct fuel injection (DFI). Only boats powered by four-stroke motors, two-stroke DFI, or electric motors are allowed in the personal use dip net fishery. However, there are no horse power size restrictions on these motors downstream of river mile 4, which is approximately 1 mile downstream of the Warren Ames Bridge. For information regarding boat and motor restrictions upstream of river mile 4, contact the Department of Natural Resources at (907) 262-5581 or the Kenai River Center at (907) 260-4882. The Kenai River personal use dip net fishery opens Thursday, July 10 at 6:00 a.m. Please review the personal use regulations found on pages 16-18 of the 2008 Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for Southcentral Alaska.

• Anglers planning to fish the Russian River are reminded to: chop filleted fish carcasses into several small pieces (2 inches) and throw the pieces into the moving current of the river to prevent fish carcass build-up along the river. In addition, whenever possible anglers are asked to clean fish at the designated fish cleaning tables.

• The Russian River and Kenai River near the Russian-Kenai river confluence, have federal regulations regarding food storage, possession or refuse in the Russian River Angler’s Trail developed recreation area and along the banks of the Russian and Kenai rivers that are part of the Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Anglers are also asked to respect the habitat restoration projects in this area and to stay on newly constructed and or the established trails. Specific information regarding federal land use regulations in this area can be found at the Russian River developed campground and Russian River Ferry facilities. Information is also available at the Seward Ranger District, Chugach National Forest Headquarters, and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.

Salmon

Kenai River

• In the Kenai River, king salmon fishing is reported to be fair. The daily estimated numbers of late run king salmon entering the Kenai River increased this past week and fishing is expected to improve through the remainder of July. ADF&G creel survey indicated that catches of king salmon also improved this past week.

• A few sockeye salmon have been caught, however, sockeye salmon sport fishing in the lower Kenai River is rated as poor.

• Dipnetting for sockeye salmon downstream of the Warren Ames Bridge has been relatively slow as sockeye salmon have been entering the river in relatively low numbers.

• Information about Kenai River king and sockeye salmon sonar passage estimates are available via phone at (907) 262-9097 and online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below.

Kasilof River

• Anglers are awaiting the arrival of good numbers of late-run Kasilof River king salmon that begin returning to the river during July. King salmon fishing has been reported to be fair. A plug, wrapped with sardine is the favored technique to catch king salmon on the Kasilof River and salmon roe has also been productive.

• Sockeye salmon have been returning to the Kasilof River in fishable numbers for several days. Anglers have caught sockeye salmon in the lower Kasilof River. Information about Kasilof River sockeye salmon sonar passage is now available at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Anglers interested in targeting sockeye salmon may want to consider fishing from the shore at the Crooked Creek State of Alaska Recreation Site and fishing the upper Kasilof River by floating and fishing the river between the ‘slack water’ public boat launch and the Sterling Highway Bridge public boat launch.

• Dip netting success has been variable depending on influxes of sockeye salmon into the river. Many dip netters have been having good success fishing the falling or ebbing tide.

Russian River

• Sockeye salmon fishing in both the clear waters of the Russian River and the Kenai River mainstem upstream and downstream of the Russian River Ferry crossing is rated as poor. The Sanctuary Area will remain open to fishing providing plenty of room for anglers to fish once the late run of sockeye salmon arrive at the Russian River. Anglers fishing in the Upper Kenai River between Sportsman’s and Jim’s Landing are also reporting poor fishing for sockeye salmon. Anglers need a boat to access this area of the Upper Kenai River to fish for sockeye salmon.

• Information about late-run sockeye salmon passage at the Russian River weir will be available later is week online at the weir count and sonar estimates internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Anglers are reminded that the weir at Russian River is located upstream of the fishery and weir counts may not be a good indicator of the numbers of fish present in the Russian River area open to fishing.

Resident Fish — Kenai & Russian rivers

• Most anglers have been waiting for sockeye salmon, however, this period before arrival of late-run sockeye salmon to these rivers is a great time to fish for rainbow trout. Fishing in both rivers is rated as good.

• The Kenai River between the Upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake, as well as the Upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake, has been providing good rainbow trout fishing.

Resident Fish — Kasilof River

• Nearly all fishing activity is for king and sockeye salmon downstream of the Sterling Highway Bridge where a few Dolly Varden have been caught. Anglers interested in targeting Dolly Varden may want to consider fishing the ‘slack water’ area immediately downstream of the Tustumena Lake outlet or floating and fishing the river between the ‘slack water’ public boat launch and the Sterling Highway Bridge public boat launch.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula lakes provide great fishing opportunity. Fishing on many of the Kenai Peninsula area lakes for rainbow trout has been good recently. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake; the bag and possession limit for lake trout is one fish.

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake 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, spin, 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.

[silversalmon]

Fishing Report for August 12, 2008
   
Late Run King Salmon Summary
Early Run King Salmon Summary
Kenai Area EOs
2-KS-1-07-08
2-RS-1-13-08
2-RS-1-24-08
2-RS-1-25-08

North Kenai Peninsula Management Area

Week of August 11 to August 17

Issued August 12, 2008

Emergency Orders and regulation reminders

At this time, two emergency orders are in effect for this area:

• The most recent reduced the sockeye salmon bag and possession limit to one fish upstream of the Kenai River sockeye salmon sonar counter located at river mile 19, effective at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, August 6. The sonar counter is located approximately 2 river miles below the Sterling Highway bridge crossing of the Kenai River in Soldotna. Anglers can review pages 48, 52, and 54 of the 2008 Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulation Summary booklet for a reference of general river mile (RM) markers for the lower Kenai River.

The bag and possession limit of sockeye salmon in the Russian River and Kenai River “fly-fishing-only waters” at the confluence of the Russian River, including that portion of the Kenai River from ADF&G regulatory markers located approximately 300 yards upstream of the public boat launch at Sportsman’s Landing downstream to the power line, are not affected by this action and remain at three fish. See page 51 of the Southcentral Alaska regulation booklet for a map of this area.

• The other emergency order closed the lower Kenai River to sockeye salmon fishing downstream of the sonar counter located at river mile 19, effective at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, August 1.

• Anglers are reminded that seasonal riverbank closures along the Kenai River are in effect from July 1 through August 15. Anglers are asked to review pages 52 and 53 of the 2008 Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for Southcentral Alaska to become familiar with these areas.

• In the Kasilof River upstream from the Sterling Highway bridge, sport fishing from a boat is not allowed from August 1 – August 15. A map and regulations for the Kasilof River is located on pages 43 and 44 of the 2008 Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for Southcentral Alaska.

• The Kasilof and Kenai rivers are closed to king salmon fishing.

• Anglers planning to fish the Russian River are reminded to chop filleted fish carcasses into several small pieces (2 inches) and throw the pieces into the moving current of the river to prevent fish carcass buildup along the river. In addition, whenever possible anglers are asked to clean fish at the designated fish cleaning tables.

• The Russian River and Kenai River near the Russian-Kenai rivers confluence, have federal regulations regarding food storage, possession or refuse in the Russian River Angler’s Trail developed recreation area and along the banks of the Russian and Kenai rivers that are part of the Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Anglers are also asked to respect the habitat restoration projects in this area and to stay on newly constructed or established trails. Specific information regarding federal land use regulations in this area can be found at the Russian River developed campground and Russian River Ferry facilities. Information is also available at the Seward Ranger District, Chugach National Forest Headquarters, and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.

Salmon

Kenai River

• In the Kenai River, coho (silver) salmon fishing has been good to excellent this past week. Coho salmon are being caught from the lower river around Warren Ames Bridge at river mile 5 all the way up to Skilak Lake. Overall fishing has been the most consistent in the lower river. Fishing for coho is expected to remain good throughout August.

• Pink salmon are now entering the Kenai River in large numbers and fishing has been good to excellent. Many anglers are having great success from approximately river mile 11 near Eagle Rock downstream to the Warren Ames Bridge at river mile 5. Most anglers are casting various spinners and spoons.

Kasilof River

• Coho salmon fishing should improve as the month of August progresses. Currently, few coho have made their way into the river.

Russian River

• Sockeye salmon fishing in the clear waters of the Russian River and in the Kenai River mainstem upstream and downstream of the Russian River Ferry crossing is rated as fair to good at times. The late run of sockeye salmon migrating up the Kenai River arrived in this area about two weeks ago. Anglers should have fair to good success over the remainder of the sockeye season which runs through August 20. The Sanctuary Area is open to fishing, providing plenty of room for anglers to fish for late sockeye salmon. Anglers fishing in the Upper Kenai River between Sportsman’s and Jim’s Landing are reporting fair fishing for sockeye salmon. Anglers need a boat to access this area of the upper Kenai River to fish for sockeye salmon.

• Coho salmon have already begun to pass through the Russian River weir and are present in the fishery in modest but increasing numbers.

• Information about late-run sockeye salmon passage at the Russian River weir is available online at the weir count and sonar estimates Internet site listed below and via phone at (907) 262-9097.

• Anglers are reminded that the weir at Russian River is located upstream of the fishery and weir counts may not be a good indicator of the numbers of fish present in the Russian River area open to fishing.

Resident Fish — Kenai & Russian rivers

• Many anglers are now targeting rainbow trout. King salmon are starting to spawn in many areas of the Kenai River. Consequently, anglers are using large beads to mimic drifting salmon eggs to entice rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Fishing for resident species has improved recently and should remain good for several weeks.

• The Kenai River between the upper Killey River and the outlet of Skilak Lake, as well as the upper Kenai River from Skilak Lake upstream to Kenai Lake, has been providing good rainbow trout fishing.

• In the Russian River, decreasing water levels and spawning sockeye salmon is providing great fishing opportunities and fast action for trout anglers. Fishing in both rivers will improve as summer progresses into fall.

• In other streams on the Kenai Peninsula, such as Quartz Creek, anglers are having fair to good success fishing for Dolly Varden.

• Fishing in several areas for resident species will improve as the summer progresses into fall.

Resident Fish — Kasilof River

• Fishing activity at the Kasilof will be slow until coho salmon arrive in better numbers. Anglers interested in targeting Dolly Varden may want to consider fishing the “slack water” area immediately downstream of the Tustumena Lake outlet, or floating and fishing the river between the slack water public boat launch and the Sterling Highway bridge public boat launch.

Lake Fishing

• Numerous Kenai Peninsula lakes provide great fishing opportunity. Fishing on many of the Kenai Peninsula area lakes for rainbow trout has been good recently. Anglers are reminded of the new regulation for Hidden Lake; the bag and possession limit for lake trout is one fish.

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake 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, spin, 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.