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Kenai Salmon Fishing Stock Count
What Is the Fish Count in the Kenai River?
In the lush and majestic Kenai River, Alaska’s most famous salmon fishing spot, anglers have long sought their fortunes in the abundant stocks of sockeye and king salmon. Every year, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game releases updated counts for both species. The latest cumulative sockeye salmon fish count in the Kenai River for July 6, 2023, is estimated at over 24,151, which is almost half the count seen in the same period last year. The noncumulative count for sockeye salmon stood at 3,084.
How Sockeye Salmon Fish Counts Work
The sockeye salmon count consists of the total number of sockeye salmon that have made it through the fish wheel and passed over two weirs on the Kenai River. The counts are cumulative; in other words, they increase over time and include fish caught in previous years as well as those that are freshly arriving. The ADF&G also provides salmon counts for king salmon and publishes regular reports on its website.
The ADF&G uses a variety of methods to count the salmon, including aerial surveys, gillnetting, sonar counts, set net counts and shoreline counts from ADF&G staff and commercial fishers. Sonar counts, for instance, come from two stationary sonar sites — one on the Kenai River and one at the mouth of the Kasilof River. They record migrating sockeye salmon as they pass by.
What Salmon Are Running in the Kenai River Now?
The Kenai River is home to five species of salmon: sockeye, king, coho, pink and silver. The majority of the fish caught in the Kenai River are sockeye and king salmon.
Generally, fish run times are separated into two categories: first run and late run. First-run sockeye salmon enter the river in May and early July, while late-run fish enter the river in late July and early August. At this time of year, we can expect to find first-run sockeye and king salmon in the Kenai River. Coho salmon enter the river in late summer, while pink and silver salmon return in the fall.
Each fish species has different fishing regulations set by the ADF&G. Regulations change from year to year, so it’s important to check for seasonal updates before heading out to fish. Additionally, our local fishing guides provide helpful information about what types of fish are running when you plan your visit.
How to Identify Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye salmon are the most abundant species in the Kenai River, and they’re easily identifiable by their distinct coloration. Sockeye salmon have deep red bodies, blue-green heads and backs and pale pink to white bellies. Sockeyes tend to be smaller than other salmon species, growing up to 28 inches in length. As you look for sockeye salmon in the Kenai River, keep an eye out for the other salmon species that may be running, including coho, pink and king salmon.
How to Spot King Salmon
King salmon are the largest salmon species in the Kenai River, and they’re easily identifiable by their size. Adult king salmon can grow up to 48 inches in length and can weigh as much as 60 pounds. Kings also have a distinctive black-green back with silver sides and white bellies.
What Is the Limit for King Salmon on the Kenai River?
The legal catch limit for king salmon in the Kenai River is 10 fish per day, and each fish must be less than 20 inches long. For king salmon 28 inches and longer, the daily limit is two fish. Regulations change from time to time, so it’s best to check the local regulations before fishing. At Alaska Fish On charters, we make sure our customers are aware of the regulations and provide them with top-quality fishing experiences. With over 37 years of experience on the Kenai River, we know how to maximize your chances of catching a prize-winning fish.
How Many Salmon Can You Catch in Kenai River?
With the abundance of sockeye and king salmon in the Kenai River, now’s the time to experience Alaska’s best fishing. The limit for recreational fishing varies depending on the type of salmon and the length of the fish. Anglers may catch up to six sockeye salmon per day and can have up to 12 in their possession. King salmon, as mentioned above, have a daily bag limit of 10 fish that are less than 20 inches in length.
Our Kenai fishing trips are a great way to get out on the water and experience Alaska’s beauty firsthand. With our experienced guides, you can feel confident you’re fishing with people who have the best knowledge in the area, and you’ll be sure to come out with some great catches. Contact us today to start planning your Kenai fishing trip!
Whether you’re looking to catch sockeye salmon or king salmon, the Kenai River is the perfect place to cast your line. Check the current restrictions before planning your trip, and get ready for a memorable fishing experience!
