Kenai River

Rivers We Run

Kenai River

What is the Kenai River?

The Kenai River is the longest river in the Kenai Peninsula and is called Kahtnu in the Dena’ina language. It runs 82 miles (132 km) westward from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet of the Pacific Ocean near Kenai and Soldotna.

Fishing in the Kenai River

The Kenai River is one of the most popular fishing destinations in Alaska-especially for king salmon (Chinook). The Kenai River experiences two runs of king salmon each year, along with sockeye, coho, and pink salmon. The world record king salmon was caught in 1985 at the Kenai River and weighed about 44 kg. The Kenai is also home of trophy size rainbow trout and Dolly Varden to a whopping 76.2 cm!

It’s not as prolific as other Alaskan rivers, but the Kenai is famous for its large fish. The average king salmon weighs 18-23 kg and can be much larger, with instances of the fishery being entirely closed or restricted to certain fishing methods in recent years because of low returns of fish.

Coho salmon are also a favorite fish to catch on the Kenai in August and October. They’re more favored by the locals, who enjoy the bigger size.

If you’re looking for sockeye salmon, their runs typically happen in late June and early August. These fish are considered the best for eating, canning, and smoking.

And finally, if you want pink salmon, keep a weather eye open.  The pink salmon only comes around in even-numbered years. Each year, these salmon are a pest to fishers because they interfere with catching other fish, and their meat can be soft and oily by the time they reach the freshwater inland.  A heavy fishing day might bring in dozens of the species.

Fishing Charters on the Kenai River

Fishing in Alaska is awesome, and the best place to fish is on the Kenai Peninsula. That’s where Kenai Kingpin comes in. We provide some of the best fishing charters on the Kenai Peninsula.

Our experience in the fishing charter industry stretches over ten years, and with our knowledgeable and experienced guides, we can help fishermen of any skill level have an absolutely fantastic fishing experience.

So if you’re looking for some of the best fishing in the world, explore Alaska’s rivers and wilderness today. With so many rivers to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. Our guides are there for you when you need them, and the Alaskan wilderness is there for exploration. Take a minute and get in contact with Kenai Kingpin today!

Specialized For You
Trips & Rates

Kenai Kingpin specializes in family friendly trips for all species of salmon and trout on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. Trips last up to 6 hours or until limits of salmon have been caught. We can accommodate up to 5 anglers per group. Groups with 2-3 anglers may be mixed with other groups.

Our Specialty Trips

Upper Kasilof River

The Kasilof River in Kenai, Alaska is the perfect place for a whitewater fishing adventure. Those looking for a good challenge should look no further than the Class II section of the Kasilof. Although it’s not for the faint of heart, those who are up to the task will experience something unlike anything they’ve ever seen before!

Fun & Professional Guides
Get To Know Us

Kenai KingPin Sportsfishing provides professional, family-run fishing excursions around the Kenai Peninsula. Our local, experienced guides know this area better than anyone. Whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned veteran, we will provide an unforgettable fishing experience.

We’ve been booking fishing trips for over a decade, and we know what makes for a perfect day. Contact us today to book the fishing adventure of a lifetime!

Our Testimonials
Fisherman's Tales