These are the “Hot Spots of the Week” fishing reports for 2018:
Updated October 19, 2018
Weekly Summary: Anglers are having mixed blessings across the region; warm air keeps moving in but along with it are heavy doses of rain in some parts, such as the Seward and Valdez areas, including central Kenai Peninsula, which are experiencing huge flooding events. Yet for much of Southcentral, autumn fishing opportunities persist as cold, freezing weather is being blocked from taking a hold of most drainages, meaning that there is still some quite decent trout, char, and grayling action to be had in flowing waters as well as lakes. And sea-run rainbows–steelhead–are prolific in southern peninsula streams between the periodic downpours for those desiring a true autumn challenge. If seeking the last catch of salmon for the season, the Kenai River has an ongoing late run of fish that typically lasts right through the month and into early winter. The best advice for anglers this time of year is to be flexible, have patience, and plan according to weather systems.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; KASILOF STEELHEAD; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; ANCHOR & DEEP STEELHEAD
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
SUSITNA RIVER: Fluctuating water levels and clarity has been a common factor here the past week as on and off again rainfalls are affecting the fishing, in some waters more than others. Success ranging from poor to very good is the norm depending on stream conditions but anglers trying the far lower end and mouths of tributaries seem to be doing best. The traditional spots of Montana, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow are seeing action as are the slightly larger drainages of Kashwitna and Talkeetna. Rainbows and grayling are most prevalent with lesser numbers of Dolly Varden; flesh and forage flies/lures are best now. Certain locations are also experiencing large numbers of whitefish congregated in schools. This can also be a great time of year to chase burbot in slow water sections of mainstem Susitna. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1 (except as allowed for burbot).
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
COPPER RIVER: This area is experiencing a transition from late fall to winter conditions with most smaller rivers, streams, and lakes starting to see at least some degree of ice or slush and few fish. The larger waters, however, are more productive and may hold fair to very good fishing for rainbows and grayling. Lake trout and whitefish can also be numerous and very active in spots. Paxson and Louise are doing well, as are several of the stocked lakes. Gulkana River is productive for trout and grayling below Paxson Lake but access is becoming an issue with snow and cold temperatures arriving. In short, it is only a matter of time before the open-water season in Copper Valley is done and ice fishing commences.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Heavy rains in the Chugach Mountains are affecting this section of the Kenai with river flows being high and could rise to near flood stage. Despite this, fishing is very much possible unless the situation changes drastically the next few days. Anglers are doing fair to good on rainbows and Dollies with opportunity spread throughout the length of the river. Beads and flesh work but forage and small spinners can be hot as well. Late-run silvers are pushing through with fair catches of chrome salmon; most of the run is turning color but fresh fish will be available through the season that ends October 31. Use spinners and streamers. A few whitefish are also present.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Like the upper river section, high water levels to near flood stage is also the rule here. In fact, the stretch of the Kenai downstream of Killey River is flowing muddy as well due to heavy discharge of silt and debris. Anglers are advised to focus their efforts from the outlet of Skilak Lake down to the Killey confluence, where the bite is good for rainbows and Dollies using beads and flesh. Late-run silvers are abundant in this area too and are striking spinners and streamers; expect to filter through some blush fish if targeting chrome salmon but catch rates are good still. As a reminder, the silver salmon season ends on October 31 above Bing’s Landing but extends through November 30 downstream of there.
KASILOF RIVER: The best fishing here is taking place on stretch of water a few miles downstream of the boat launch near Tustumena Lake to near the rapids. Plugs fished slow and deep are getting strikes from steelhead and action is fair to good; oversized beads/corkies work also. Late-run silvers are present but the majority of the run have turned dark with only a few fresh fish in the mix. Lake trout and Dolly Varden are being caught in fair numbers at the outlet of Tustumena. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 16.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: Not as affected by rain as waters to the east, these peninsula streams are seeing fair to good action for steelhead trout with some Dollies being landed as well. Expect periods of higher flows as weather systems pass through. Beads, forage and streamer flies, and smaller spoons are responsible for most fish being hooked. The middle reaches of these waters are best for steelhead while the upper reaches are better for char. The salmon runs are done for this year. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated October 12, 2018
Weekly Summary: As relatively warm temperatures continue to dominate the Southcentral Alaska region, anglers are finding ample opportunities to get out and enjoy late-season fishing for a variety of species in streams and lakes. The autumn silver salmon runs in the Kenai and Kasilof rivers are producing steady catches of bright fish and the trout, char, and grayling waters of the Kenai Peninsula, Susitna, Matanuska, and Copper valleys are seeing plenty of action. Although success rates will drop markedly in most locations after mid-month as resident fish get situated in their overwintering habitats, there is still decent fishing to be had in a few of the larger drainages; many lakes, however, typically see great open-water catch rates through the month until ice forms. Surf-casting the briny around the peninsula and the gulf coast is largely over for the year but smaller bottomfish species should be around throughout the winter months.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; KASILOF STEELHEAD; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; ANCHOR & DEEP STEELHEAD
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
SUSITNA RIVER: Depending on specific location and day, anglers trying the far lower end or mouths of clearwater tributaries draining into the Susitna (as well as Chulitna) are finding fair to superb catches of primarily rainbows and grayling with a supply of Dolly Varden, whitefish, and burbot as well. Some fish have been lingering in the smaller streams in numbers a bit longer than usual due to recent warm weather. The mouths of Montana, Goose, Sheep, and Willow are worth an attempt, as are the lower stretches of mainstem Talkeetna and Kashwitna. Byers is a late-season favorite with some. For trout, grayling, and char, forage flies and small lures can be effective, but do not neglect to try flesh flies or even beads as a few salmon are still spawning and dying in some areas. For whitefish, use midge flies and tiny spoons, burbot prefer chunks of fish bait. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1 (except as allowed for burbot).
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
COPPER RIVER: Angling pressure is very light in this area. Most resident species have left smaller flowing waters but small groups of grayling and/or trout may be found in places such as Mendeltna and Tolsona. Grayling are still present in good numbers on the Gulkana River right below Paxson Lake; rainbows and an occasional steelhead are available too. A trickle of silvers are moving through Klutina and Tonsina rivers. Generally, the better bet this time of year is the excellent fishing opportunities for rainbows in smaller stocked lakes; larger bodies of water provide fair to good catches of lake trout and whitefish are abundant also.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Water conditions are excellent with low and clear flows. Fair to good bite being had for rainbows and Dollies throughout length of river from Kenai Lake outlet to Skilak Lake. Forage pattern flies and lures are tagging a lot of fish but eggs and flesh works as spawning and dying salmon are present. Fishing for late-run silvers is currently fair to good with best action occurring in deep holes and edges of slow water, such as sloughs, in early morning; many of the salmon are starting to turn but chrome specimens are common still.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Targeting late-run silvers is quite good in the middle section from near the lake outlet down to around Bing’s Landing; ocean fresh fish are coming through with regularity yet many blush fish being seen these days. Hit slow water areas. For trout and char, try middle river as well using forage flies and lures along with beads and flesh; very good catches experienced. The lower river, from Sterling to Cook Inlet, is seeing a trickle of bright silvers but fishing is slow. Trout and char activity in this section is also slow.
KASILOF RIVER: Drifting or hiking in to the upper section of river will put anglers onto steelhead trout with fair to good results. Large beads and plugs are effective here. As for salmon, a few nice silvers linger but the majority of fish are dark. Dolly Varden and lake trout are being caught at outlet of Tustumena Lake. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 16.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: The lower peninsula streams are experiencing fair to good catch rates of steelhead, especially on days following a rainfall. Beads, forage/streamer pattern flies, and small lures are getting strikes. Try deeper holes and runs from a mile or two or more upstream of tidewater up into the middle stream sections for best success. Lower Stariski Creek is quite decent for steelhead as well. The silver salmon runs have ended on these waters but stragglers are always a possibility. The upper and middle section can be good for char. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated October 4, 2018
Weekly Summary: The Southcentral region is back to a more seasonal weather pattern with a mix of sun, clouds, and rain, meaning that rivers and streams will cool and drop further as we head into late fall. While most salmon runs are done for the year, there is still some hot action for late-run silvers in the Kenai River drainage with some decent reports also out of Kasilof River; however, a trickle of fresh fish are typically present in many coastal waters well into October. But this is really a month to focus on trout, char, and grayling as the bite can be incredible this time of year as resident species gorge themselves on whatever food is available before winter sets in. The Susitna River and Copper River systems present great opportunities for angling, particularly the lower reaches and mouths of clearwater tributaries, and a few streams on the Kenai Peninsula will hold fair action for steelhead through the month. Saltwater fishing from shore has really died down and will not pick up again until next spring.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; ANCHOR & DEEP STEELHEAD; COPPER RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; KASILOF SILVERS, STEELHEAD
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
CHULITNA RIVER: Flowing mainly low and clear right now, tributaries of this glacial drainage offer fair to very good angling for rainbows and grayling at mouths and holes immediately above. Expect slow action in middle or upper reaches as fish have largely vacated these areas. Byers Creek may be a relative hot spot this time of year as salmon are still spawning here. Whitefish may be present in places at times. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
TALKEETNA RIVER: Water levels have really dropped this past week with cooling temperatures, exposing more favorable conditions for targeting trout, char, and grayling in the mainstem river; expect fair to excellent catches. As late-run chums and a few silvers are still spawning and dying off in the lower reaches of this drainage, beads, corkies, and flesh flies work nicely but forage flies can be effective as well. Small spinners work great sometimes. Fair numbers of whitefish present in some holes. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
SUSITNA RIVER: The far lower ends and mouths of tributaries are the spots to try this week for rainbows, grayling, and char; try beads, forage and flesh flies, and small spinners. The confluence areas of Montana, Sheep, and Willow are favorite locations this time of year and typically yield fair to very good action. Whitefish can be quite abundant in some spots and respond to very small spoons or midge flies. Additionally, the Kashwitna River can be very productive as water is low and quite clear, producing decent numbers of rainbows and grayling in its middle and lower reaches. Salmon runs are generally done for the year but a few spawning chums and silvers may still be spotted. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
COPPER RIVER: Traditionally, this is the last week for good angling opportunities in streams in this region. Grayling and rainbows are moving through clearwater tributaries to overwintering areas and may be encountered in dense schools; forage flies and small spinners are tops. Mendeltna and Tolsona are reliable spots to try, as is Little Nelchina and Little Tonsina. The lakes around here are doing very well on trout and grayling. The Gulkana still holds some excellent fishing for rainbows and grayling along with an occasional steelhead in stretch just below Paxson Lake. Whitefish can be abundant in some waters. Salmon runs have ended, generally, but semi-bright and blush reds and silvers are present in the Klutina and Tonsina drainages.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Flowing low and unusually clear, anglers here are reporting fair to very good catches of both rainbow trout as well as Dolly Varden. Beads and flesh works great, as does forage flies and small spinners. Silver salmon are also available in good numbers and more fish are arriving with each passing day; excellent success is possible at dawn. Some fish are blush yet many are in chrome condition and respond best to spinners and larger streamer patterns. Whitefish are being caught incidentally to targeting other species, mainly on small beads and corkies. Nearby Russian River has slowed considerably but some trout and char are being caught in the confluence area.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Water conditions are low and water is clearing. Good to excellent action possible in middle river section upstream of Bing’s Landing; anglers in the Soldotna area and down report fair fishing at best. Many chrome salmon to be had although a number are starting to show some color. The middle reach is also best for rainbows and Dollies with fair to excellent catch rates as of last several days. Some reds and even pinks are still spawning so beads work well but flesh and forage flies are sometimes even better this late in the season for resident species. A few whitefish are being caught on smaller presentations.
KASILOF RIVER: Anglers that have access to a drift boat or raft or are up for a strenuous hike will find the upper river a solid option this month. A fair number of fresh silvers are available yet but this late run is maturing and many fish are showing color; success varies from fair to good using plugs in deep, slow holes. Steelhead trout are showing in increasing numbers and striking primarily plugs and large beads; action can be quite good at times. A few spawning reds are present near the outlet of Tustumena Lake where Dolly Varden and lake trout may be encountered. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 16.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: Steelhead trout are running in fair numbers in all three of these waters and the fishing recently has been fair to good depending on location. Target fish at dawn and dusk in deep holes and runs throughout the lower and middle reaches with the latter probably the better bet this time of the season. Beads, corkies, and various streamer patterns are good and smaller spoons, spinners, and jigs can produce very nice fish as well. Tidewater locations are generally not as productive right now as most fish are situated upstream. Occasional fresh silver salmon possible. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated September 27, 2018
Weekly Summary: Intermittent rainfall the last several days has not put much of a damper on fishing conditions around the region, only briefly elevating rivers and streams in the Susitna and Copper valleys and areas of the Kenai Peninsula, and in some instances even helping the bite. No flooding issues were reported but high water was prevalent on the section of Kenai River between Skilak Lake and Cook Inlet, although this was due to a glacial lake emptying out into the river, a periodic event that occurs every three to four years. But waters throughout Southcentral are stabilizing and with dry and sunny weather once again in the forecast for the coming weekend and next week, anglers will have some solid opportunities for late-run silvers, steelhead, rainbows, Dollies, and grayling among other species in a great many locations. Additionally, angling pressure is generally minimal this time of year, thus increasing success rates for the few that do get out to enjoy the great autumn weather on the water. However, the marine fisheries are largely slowing down for the year as more salmon and sea-run char enter spawning streams and halibut and other bottomfish begin their annual trek to deeper, offshore waters.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; ANCHOR & DEEP STEELHEAD; COPPER RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; KASILOF SILVERS, STEELHEAD
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
CHULITNA RIVER: Anglers trying their luck in the lower sections and mouths of clearwater tributaries are finding mixed success, varying from excellent to fair at best depending on water and the day. Trout and grayling are in the process of moving out of the East Fork and Middle Fork Chulitna but good times may be had still in deeper holes and pools using flesh and forage patterns. Byers Creek can be hot from now on into October using beads and flesh, primarily for rainbows. Silver salmon are in the process of spawning and dying in all of these drainages. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
SUSITNA RIVER: Likewise as the Chulitna, resident species are starting their autumn migrations out of clearwater tributaries to overwintering areas in the main Susitna and anglers should focus efforts on the middle and/or lower portions of these waters. Montana, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow are all seeing nice catches of rainbows and grayling using washed-out beads, flesh, and forage flies as well as spinners. There are still silvers and a few chums spawning but most of these runs are finishing up or done for the season. Whitefish may be abundant in several of the streams mentioned above but hike around until schools are located; use nymphs and small beads. The glacial systems of Kashwitna and Talkeetna have not hit their stride yet due to unseasonally warm temperatures but should turn on any day as water drops and clears, revealing good to excellent action for mainly trout and grayling but also char in the latter location. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
COPPER RIVER: Expect good to excellent angling opportunities in clearwater streams now through next week as grayling are actively migrating to lakes and deep rivers to overwinter and eagerly hitting flies and spinners. Mendeltna, Tolsona, Tulsona, Indian, and Gunn are all producing fish at this time. The Little Tonsina is a decent spot for grayling as well as char; try beads here also as silvers are in the process of spawning. Gulkana River is currently yielding fast action for grayling and rainbows in section of water downstream of Paxson Lake and a few steelhead are present.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: For quick and easy fishing, this is an obvious fall favorite. Rainbows and Dollies are very active and readily available throughout the drainage hitting beads, flesh, and forage flies and spinners. Catch rates will remain high here for at least another ten days to two weeks. A number of whitefish are falling for small beads. Late-run silver salmon are arriving and should provide fair fishing this weekend but improving quickly through the following week. The king and red salmon runs in the area have largely finished spawning and are currently dying off.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Water levels are dropping from the recent glacial dam outburst and slowly starting to clear. Catch rates have been good to excellent for late-run silvers lately with some of the better opportunities now occurring in that section of water upstream of Soldotna to the Skilak Lake outlet. Ocean fresh fish are still coming into the river in respectable numbers on most every tide but not at the same pace as a week ago; however, fishing may be quite good in some spots yet. Spinners and salmon roe fished in slow or still water next to main channel current is best. The Moose River confluence is also a decent place to catch these fish. The middle river section above Bing’s Landing is hot for rainbows and Dollies using beads and flesh and typically stays this way through mid-October. Most kings have spawned and died but there are a stack of reds still going through the motions up towards the lake; match the hatch.
SWANSON RIVER: Very good or better action for rainbow trout in the upper sections of water accessible by canoe off the Swanson River Road. Flies and spinners work great but beads can be a hot item wherever there are salmon spawning. While most silvers are too dark for sport and consumption, there is a trickle of fresh fish moving in on the tides and through the lower river section.
KASILOF RIVER: To properly enjoy the fall fishery for late-run silvers and steelhead here, a drift boat or long hike is required as the bulk of these fish are located in portion of river between the rapids and the outlet of Tustumena Lake. Plugs work very well on these species this time of year but some decent catches are also made on spinners and oversized beads or corkies. As always, look for concentrations of salmon and trout in deep holes and runs near or adjacent to main current. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 16.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: Reports from these lower peninsula drainages have mixed success for steelhead and Dolly Varden, with some tides last week producing really good trout action; the Dollies, however, were mainly being targeted in the upper portions of these waters where silver salmon are currently spawning. Beads and forage flies are fishing well as are spinners and spoons. For the coming week, anglers trying for sea-run rainbows need to focus attention on holes and runs upstream of the tidal area and throughout the lower and middle stream sections; dawn and dusk is best time. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated September 20, 2018
Weekly Summary: Anglers wanting to sample the best of fall fishing opportunities are advised to head out this weekend and the following days as trout, char, and grayling are engaged in a feeding frenzy leading up to the cold season, with clearwater streams and lakes throughout the region yielding excellent catch rates. And with the sunny and dry streak of an unusually warm September, most all drainages in Southcentral are flowing low and clear and thus offering dense concentrations of fish and great visibility, an ideal combination that often spells success. The only system that is experiencing some adverse conditions is the lower Kenai River due to a glacial dam that burst late last week and has elevated water levels equal to that of mid-summer flows; still, fishing for late-run silvers there and in neighboring Kasilof remains largely unaffected. Apart from these peninsula rivers, salmon runs are dwindling throughout the region but some fish are still being picked up in the predictable places, such as Port Valdez. Anglers on the southern peninsula are seeing increasing numbers of steelhead trout entering area waters as these runs are starting to peak.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; ANCHOR & DEEP STEELHEAD; COPPER RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; KASILOF SILVERS, STEELHEAD
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
CHULITNA RIVER: Tributaries of this large glacial system are flowing very low and clear as of this report and fish are reportedly migrating to the middle and lower sections in anticipation of cold late autumn temperatures that are likely to arrive soon. Rainbows and grayling along with a few whitefish are being taken on beads and flesh as well as forage flies and lures. East and Middle forks of Chulitna are great spots as is Byers Creeks. The mouths of Honolulu and Troublesome can be fair for these species. Spawning silvers and a few chums are present in many, if not all, of these waters. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
SUSITNA RIVER: Also in this area streams are flowing very low and clear, ideal for yielding some fast-paced action for rainbows and grayling with a number of Dolly Varden and whitefish also available. The larger roadside tributaries of Montana, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow are all producing good to excellent fishing in places, generally in the middle sections as resident species are beginning to move out of the headwaters. But smaller drainages, such as Goose, Deception, and Rabideux, may see quite decent action as well. The Kashwitna and Talkeetna may see worthwhile action shortly as temperatures continue to drop. If in the Petersville area, check out Peters Creek that is experiencing some good trout and grayling catches in an area that is not fished too much like nearby waters. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
COPPER RIVER: Excellent grayling fishing can be had in many streams flowing into this vast glacial system. Mendeltna, Tolsona, Indian, and Gunn are but a few samples that may at times see fish-on-every-cast action using small spinners and flies. The Gulkana continues to be a very reliable place to go, producing great catches of not only grayling but rainbows too along with an occasional steelhead in its middle section from the canyon to Paxson Lake; use beads, flesh, and streamers. Grayling and Dolly Varden are hitting well in Little Tonsina River and a few semi-bright silvers are still showing up in the mainstem Tonsina (and Klutina too).
PORT VALDEZ: Fresh silvers are continuing to fin the shoreline along the port, destined for the Solomon Creek hatchery and Lowe River drainage. Small schools can sometimes be spotted by fish breaching the surface and effectively targeted using spinners. While the run peaked a while back, a catch of two or three fish is very possible. Expect to release some blush fish in the process. A number of silvers are still in the boat harbor as well as off the beach just west of Allison Point. Nearby Robe River is also producing bright and semi-bright specimens but the run is maturing with many blush fish–try the mouth.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
CAMPBELL CREEK: Hiking in to places on the upper stream, specifically between Piper Street and Cambell Airstrip Road, can be very good for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Beads, flesh, and forage flies and spinners can yield hot action at times in the right hole. A very few fresh silvers are trickling into the lower and middle reaches but fishing for them is spotty; the main component of the run has matured and spawning has begun.
PORTAGE CREEK: Silver salmon runs to this glacial stream peaked some weeks ago but a few fresh specimens are still available. Search out mouths of clearwater spawning tributaries to find schools of salmon; salmon roes, spinners, and streamers do well in these locations. Be prepared to catch and release blush or dark silvers in quest of bright and semi-bright specimens. While this is likely the last week of reasonable opportunity, this drainage does typically see a trickle of nice fish well into October most years.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Water conditions here are very low for this time of year with great clarity, supporting excellent opportunities for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden with some whitefish also available. Beads, flesh, and forage flies are all working very well. A small number of kings and reds are still spawning; match the hatch. Although the whole stretch of water from Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake may be very worthwhile, anglers are doing best from Sportman’s Landing downstream. Only a few fresh silvers are present as the early run has ended for the most part and the late run not quite materialized yet. The Russian River confluence is producing trout, char, and the occasional silver.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Conditions here have changed a bit since last week as the Skilak Glacier dammed lake has burst open, releasing a great volume of water into this section of the Kenai. However, effects of all that extra water is rather negligible as river was very low to begin with and flows are now the same as typically experienced in mid-summer. The late run of silver salmon is starting to peak with good to excellent success the norm soaking eggs and tossing spinners in the early morning hours. Seek out calm water areas with little or no current to locate schools of fish, such as eddies, sloughs, mouths of clearwater tributaries, and deep holes on the edge of seams bordering main current. The trout and char fishery has slowed a bit following the change of water level and slight turbidity but action is still good using beads and flesh flies; reds, pinks, and some kings are spawning so “match the hatch.” Best area to connect is upstream of Bing’s Landing to Skilak outlet.
SWANSON RIVER: The middle and upper sections of water, including tributary lakes, are excellent for aggressive rainbows these days. Use flies and spinners for success. Dolly Varden are also present in lesser numbers; a few of the lakes in the area support good Arctic char fishing. For salmon, a few fresh silvers continue to trickle in as is typical this late in the season but action is slow to fair at best on the tides. However, reaches farther upstream are seeing significant numbers of fish, although most of them are getting dark.
KASILOF RIVER: Flowing quite low but still silty, this river is currently producing good opportunities for both silver salmon and steelhead trout. The middle to upper section of river is best, using plugs fished from boats. Shorebound anglers often do well on steelies using oversized beads and corkies. Fishing is generally slow on the lower river around Crooked Creek. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 16.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: Flows have been very low in these coastal drainages, limiting anglers to fish the tidewater for opportunities to tangle with steelhead trout. Success has ranged from poor to good depending on the day and stream. However, with rain in the forecast and runs building to a seasonal peak, anglers could see some hot times shortly as an increase in water levels typically bring in a good chunk of fish. Hit the water at dawn and dusk, focused around tides using beads, small corkies, and various forage and streamer flies. Try the upper reaches of these waters for a shot at decent Dolly Varden action. The silver runs are largely done for the year but a trickle of fresh fish are still arriving. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated September 13, 2018
Weekly Summary: Fall fishing conditions are in effect throughout much of the Southcentral region as late-run silvers and trout and char are at or nearing a peak in action. The string of above normal temperatures and clear blue skies this past week to ten days have left many rivers and streams low and clear, a much-needed reprieve after a most soggy August that saw high and muddy water in a lot of locations. The summer salmon runs are now either spawning or dying off, prompting a glut of food sources for hungry rainbows, Dolly Varden, and grayling among other resident species, something wise anglers will take advantage of in their selection of lures and flies to use. But not all salmon fisheries are done for the season; the autumn runs of silver salmon are just now entering the Kenai and Kasilof rivers and good numbers of fish are still present in the marine hot spots of Resurrection bay and Port Valdez. Additionally, steelhead trout are moving up the southern Kenai Peninsula streams and will provide good opportunities from now on and through this month and next.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; VALDEZ SILVERS; GULKANA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
CHULITNA RIVER: The clearwater tributaries and East and Middle forks of the glacial Chulitna are great for scouting out trout and grayling right now. Waters are low and clear, concentrating fish into deeper spots where they can easily be targeted. Beads and flesh flies work best usually when salmon are around but forage imitations can be exceptional too. Byers, East Fork, and Middle Fork are seeing plenty of action but other waters, such as Troublesome, Coal, and others, can be good as well. Whitefish may be abundant in places. There are good numbers of mature silvers (along with some old chums and reds) present with a few semi-bright specimens in the mix. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
SUSITNA RIVER: Good to exceptional opportunities for rainbow trout and grayling awaits in the smaller drainages of the Susitna system, with Montana, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow being the hot spots. As pinks and chums have largely finished spawning and died (and silvers soon to follow), using beads and flesh flies is generally the way to go. If action appears slow, switch to forage imitations. The most activity these days are in the middle and/or upper stretches of these waters. Whitefish are showing up in larger numbers and targeted successfully at the mouth and in holes of lower sections of streams. As for salmon, most runs are done for the year but a few semi-bright silvers and chums are still available. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: Flowing low and clear, now is the perfect time to drift or hike in to the middle and upper section of the river to sample the great trout and grayling fishery. The stretch of water between Paxson Lake outlet and the canyon is solid using beads, flesh, and forage flies and lures. Also, a few steelhead trout have arrived in the area and may be caught incidentally while fishing for other species. There is still a trickle of red salmon moving through the river.
TONSINA RIVER: Although the silver salmon run here has peaked in quality, there are yet many blush fish arriving along with a few semi-bright specimens. Focus on slow-moving or still water on the edge of the main current in the middle section using salmon roe and/or fluorescent lures. The Little Tonsina River confluence can be good; this small stream is also a decent spot for Dolly Varden and grayling and a few rainbows are present.
ROBE RIVER: Hiking along this clear and shallow Valdez area stream can put an angler into some very good silver action. Decent numbers of salmon are showing and many of them are still bright or semi-bright with a smaller presence of blush or dark fish. The confluence of Lowe River is a relative hot spot. Use flies.
PORT VALDEZ: Largely ignored by most anglers this time of year, the port is still harboring decent numbers of chrome and semi-bright silver salmon. The area around Allison Point to the Solomon Gulch Creek hatchery can be productive on incoming, high, and outgoing tides using spinners. Experienced and skilled anglers may be able to eek out a limit of fish. Look for jumping or surfacing fish, possibly indicating a school. Snaggers can do well in the boat harbor and the beach area near the oil terminal.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
CAMPBELL CREEK: Sampling quick action for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden is easy here. Hiking in to spots located on the upper stream between Piper Street and the Campbell Airstrip Road can offer good to excellent fishing using beads and flesh and forage flies. Silvers are arriving in the area and starting to spawn; for an opportunity at fresh salmon, try lower down in the drainage where a few bright fish are still coming through.
PORTAGE CREEK: To successfully target silvers here this time of year, look for slow-moving water in places along the middle and upper stream using salmon eggs. The mouth of clearwater tributaries can be productive also and is the place to cast spinners. While the lower section and tidewater may still yield fish, most of the run has advanced beyond this point, although a few chrome specimens historically arrive well into October. The red and chum runs in the area are spawning and dying off. Fair opportunities for Dolly Varden.
KENAI PENINSULA:
RESURRECTION BAY: The fast-paced action of a week ago has been tempered a bit, largely due to heavy angling pressure as well as sunny and warm weather. Anglers that are bringing in fish are focused on working the early morning incoming tides; mid-day success is very low. Snagging is most effective right now but some fish are still being caught on spinners. The stretch of water between Scheffler Creek (Seward Lagoon outfall) and the boat harbor entrance is best but a few nice silvers may also be found in other locations, such as the mouth of Spring Creek, Tonsina Creek, and the West Fork Resurrection River. A few fresh pinks are still present. Surf-casting for bottomfish is slowing a bit but catches of flounder, codfish, and greenling–as well as the occasional halibut–is still possible.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: For excellent rainbow trout and Dolly Varden action, this is the place to go. Some nice specimens stretching to 30 inches and more have been hooked recently and the trend is likely to continue through the month and into October. Beads and flesh are top producers but do not neglect to try forage imitations as well. Whitefish are also showing up with some regularity. The early run of silvers has peaked and the run is dwindling in numbers of fish and quality and the late run has yet to show; a few nice fish may still be available near the Russian River confluence.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Although silvers are still relatively abundant, the majority of the run is turning with only fair numbers of chrome or semi-bright fish left. Scout the deep holes near the campground at dawn for some decent action. Fishing for rainbows and Dollies is slowing down a bit as the reds are disappearing but can be fair still using flesh or forage flies; the river mouth is a good spot this time of season.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: The late run of silver salmon is arriving and success is fair to good in areas between Soldotna and tidewater. For best results, try at dawn using eggs or spinners. As a reminder, starting September 1, the limit on silvers is 3 fish. A few bright and semi-bright reds and pinks are still present but the runs have for all practical purposes ended for the year. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden action is hot on the middle river between Bing’s Landing and the Skilak Lake outlet; beads and flesh are working great. Surf-casting at Kenai Beach at the mouth of the river has been good for a variety of species lately, mostly spiny dogfish although a few cod, large skate, and halibut are present too.
SWANSON RIVER: The stretch of river between tidewater upstream to near the access point off Swanson River Road is good for silver salmon. Many fish are blush or dark but still decent number of chrome or semi-bright salmon available. Hike in or drift down. A few silvers are also still coming in on the tides. For good rainbow opportunities, try the upper river.
NINILCHIK, ANCHOR RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: Steelhead trout are arriving and fishing for them is fair to good, particularly on early morning and evening tides. Use beads and forage flies as well as streamers. Dolly Varden and some rainbows present decent angling in the upper portions of these waters. A trickle of fresh silvers are available but runs are dwindling. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
Updated September 6, 2018
Weekly Summary: As autumn gradually takes hold of Southcentral Alaska, the summer salmon runs are coming to an end but fall fishing presents fantastic opportunities in several places and may in some instances be some of the best action of the year. Silver salmon continue to make a strong presence in coastal waters, such as Resurrection Bay and Port Valdez, and the Kenai River still boasts excellent catch rates in parts of the drainage. Additionally, with the advent of blue skies and cooler temperatures this past week, many rivers and creeks throughout the region are seeing low and clear water conditions along with superb action for multiple resident species like rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, and Arctic grayling. Steelhead trout are now entering lower Kenai Peninsula streams in fishable numbers as well. For many anglers, this is their favorite time of the year to enjoy the state’s fishing bounty as not only are there plenty of opportunities available but the large summer crowds are gone, thus leaving an abundance of waters to experience relative solitude.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: SEWARD SILVERS; KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, CHAR; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; VALDEZ SILVERS; RUSSIAN SILVERS, RAINBOWS
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
CHULITNA RIVER: Good to excellent catches of rainbow trout and grayling are coming out of this glacial drainage. Byers Creek and both the middle and east forks of the Chulitna are flowing low and clear, yielding plenty of success using beads and an assortment of egg imitation and forage flies. Honolulu and Troublesome are also worth checking out. Reds and chums are spawning in these locations; match the hatch. Some bright/semi-bright silvers are available in these locations as well but many fish are blush to red in color at this time. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
SUSITNA RIVER: Clearwater tributaries support good to excellent action for rainbow trout and grayling right now, particularly in the middle and upper reaches where salmon are spawning. Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Willow, and Kashwitna are a few of the better locations to try but do not neglect smaller, lesser-fished locations like Goose, Deception, and Rabideux. Egg and forage imitations are key to success. Small numbers of bright silvers and a few fresh late-run chums persist and can be targeted at the mouths and far lower end of these waters as well as Sunshine. Note: Seasonal bait ban is in effect as of September 1.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: Conditions here are near prime for having a great float trip for fall rainbows and grayling. Lots of success can be had on stretch of water between outlet of Paxson Lake and the forks. This is also the time of year when a few steelhead show up. Salmon runs continue to be spotty but a few decent reds are still moving through.
TONSINA RIVER: Silver salmon are making a relatively strong appearance in this drainage and can be successfully targeted in quiet channels and sloughs as well as the mouth of Little Tonsina River. Most fish are blush at this point but some bright and semi-bright specimens are available. A few nice late-run reds are present as well. Arctic grayling and Dolly Varden provide good sport in places, such as the Little Tonsina.
ROBE RIVER: Anglers here are finding good numbers of silver salmon at the Lowe confluence and in holes throughout the lower stream between the mouth and highway crossing. Dolly Varden are not abundant until the upper reaches towards Robe Lake.
PORT VALDEZ: With the busy Labor Day weekend come and gone, anglers may have a good portion of beach to themselves these days. But silvers are still running and the fishing can be really productive at times around Allison Point with limits possible using spinners. Snagging is excellent along the beach area west of the point and in spots within the harbor where salmon stage close to shore. A few nice chums are present.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
CAMPBELL CREEK: The upper portions of this city stream has to offer some surprisingly productive action for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Hiking in to spots between Piper Street and Campbell Airstrip Road will put anglers onto some good to excellent fishing in a seemingly semi-remote setting. Also, a few fresh silvers continue to enter the stream and can be intercepted in the lower and middle reaches. Try at dawn or following a good downpour.
PORTAGE CREEK: Scouting deep holes, mouth of sloughs, and quiet channels in the lower and middle stream sections could potentially yield some very good silver salmon fishing. Fresh fish continue to enter every day but some of the salmon are already starting to turn. Soaking eggs on the bottom is best although silvers can be caught on spinners and flies too at the mouth of clearwater tributaries. An occasional nice red is possible along with a few Dolly Varden. Lots of spawning chums in areas.
KENAI PENINSULA:
RESURRECTION BAY: This past week has been great for silvers at the head of the bay and snaggers at the mouth of Scheffler Creek to near the boat harbor entrance are getting easy 6-fish limits. Those using hardware and flies are also hooking up, particularly in locations away from the snag fishery, such as the breakwater in front of town and along Lowell Point Road. Lots of chrome salmon to be had but some fish are beginning to blush so now is the perfect time to go to harvest before the run subsides sometime next week. Bright/semi-bright pinks are present in small numbers. Surf-casting is fair to good for bottomfish.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Water conditions are perfect for sight-fishing silvers and rainbow trout and Dolly Varden action is superb at this time as the reds are busy spawning. Spinners and streamers work on the silvers; try near the Russian confluence and first few miles downstream. Use beads and forage flies for resident species. A few fresh reds are moving through and should be around for another week or so.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Excellent sight-fishing opportunities for bright silver salmon at dawn in the lower river as well as in the sanctuary area. Limit for silvers is 1 fish. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden fishing is good to excellent throughout much of the lower river and the upper sections as well between the lakes. Note: The red salmon season ended August 20.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: The early run of silvers is still providing good fishing in areas upstream of Sterling, particularly in or around the mouths of spawning tributaries; the late run is starting to come in on the tides. Casting spinners and floating eggs at dawn are the key for success. Still an abundance of pinks and reds in the river; many are in spawning condition but some bright fish are being caught. If targeting trout and char, the middle river above Bing’s Landing is the place to be using an assortment of beads for excellent sport.
SWANSON RIVER: Anglers here are finding very good silver salmon fishing throughout the lower river and the tides are still producing some decent action as well. Eggs and spinners are what works best here. Many bright/semi-bright fish available but some are starting to turn, particularly those higher up in the drainage. Rainbow trout fishing is good to excellent in the upper river.
COOK INLET: Surf-casting from area beaches like Ninilchik and Whiskey Gulch up to the mouth of Kenai River may yield catches of halibut and other saltwater species. A few large-sized flatfish are sometimes taken near shore and around salmon spawning streams this time of year. Use chunks of herring or salmon parts.
Updated August 30, 2018
Weekly Summary: The late summer salmon runs are winding down for the season throughout Southcentral but there are plenty of options still if targeting silvers in addition to trout, char, and grayling. While the waters of the Matanuska-Susitna area are still receiving decent numbers of silvers with some chrome fish available, many are beginning to blush as autumn closes in. But the upside of that is the fantastic action for rainbows and grayling now building in Susitna drainage streams and Matanuska lakes. The same story can be told of many locations in the Anchorage area and the Kenai Peninsula where early runs of silvers are waning, with the possible exception of the Kenai system where these salmon are still at a peak and should yield good opportunities until the bulk of the late run arrives in a couple of weeks. And do not neglect Seward where the silvers are just now hitting the beaches in force. Also happening on the peninsula are the incredible trout and char fisheries which should last from now on until the snow flies. The Copper basin is a great place to be if chasing grayling and trout in lakes and streams and Valdez is sure to be the center of attention for the Labor Day weekend as always, with silvers starting to arrive in large quantities.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: VALDEZ SILVERS; KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, & CHAR; RUSSIAN AND SWANSON SILVERS & TROUT; SEWARD SILVERS; UPPER KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, & CHAR; JIM AND COTTONWOOD SILVERS; BYERS SILVERS & TROUT
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
BYERS CREEK: One of the last, strong holdouts for silvers in the Susitna drainage, this stream is experiencing a solid run of fish; however, many of them are starting to turn so anglers need to prepare for lots of catch-and-release practice. Some older reds and chums remain with an occasional bright/semi-bright red present still. Trout action is picking up with some big specimens showing up now.
RABIDEUX CREEK: Good run of silvers moving up and biting eggs and spinners at first light around the road crossing and below. Many fish are blushing but also decent catches of brighter fish. Seasonal bait ban takes effect September 1st. Decent fishing for rainbows and grayling in upper stream.
MONTANA, SHEEP, LITTLE WILLOW, WILLOW CREEKS: As these run-off drainages are settling down after recent high water, anglers will find good to excellent rainbow trout action in the middle and upper reaches. Grayling and Dolly Varden are also present with fair to good catches. Anglers targeting salmon are finding large schools of silvers in places, albeit many are turning and not the best for sport. If wanting bright fish, search stream mouths and lower reaches using eggs and spinners with fair to good opportunities. A few chums still present. Seasonal bait ban takes effect September 1st.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: The section of water between Burma access site and Houston is holding large numbers of silvers but high and muddy water has dampened action lately. Yet, with dry weather conditions now in effect, anglers should find lower stream volume and better clarity by this weekend and next week, thus providing fair to good salmon opportunities. Many of the fish are starting to turn but there are still chrome fish coming into the lower river.
FISH, COTTONWOOD, WASILLA CREEKS: The silver salmon fishing here is still productive but numbers of fish coming in on the tides has abated quite a bit this past week. Anglers can expect fair catches with some good tides possible. Use salmon roe and spinners, flies also above tidewater. A few bright and semi-bright reds keep trickling in.
JIM CREEK: Fishing for silvers here ranges from fair to excellent depending on the day, with limits being taken on eggs and spinners. As long as rains hold off and the Knik River flows low, this spot will continue to produce decent action for at least another week or two. Red salmon continue to trickle in but are only incidental catches these days as the run is coming to a halt for the year.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: River is slowly dropping and beginning to clear; the best fishing, however, will still be for rainbows and grayling just downstream of Paxson Lake using flies and beads. Anglers may be able to find a few reds in the lower and middle river as soon as water clarity improves.
PORT VALDEZ: Water conditions here are getting better and fish are arriving in good numbers at the head of the port. Although the harbor area and breakwaters have done best for silvers this past week (along with a few chums), Allison Point and stretch of water up to Solomon Gulch Creek is improving daily and excellent catches reported some tides; many anglers are starting to limit out. This weekend and early next week should see a large push of salmon into these areas. A few fresh pinks are still available but most are in spawning condition or dying off.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
BIRD CREEK: The silver run here is slowing down but good catches are still possible on the tides as well as sight-fishing holes of the stream after the tide has gone out. This time of season, there is a mix of hatchery and wild fish to be had. The pink and chum runs have ended but an occasional nice fish may still be caught.
PORTAGE CREEK: Soaking eggs in deep and slow holes and mouths of sloughs are yielding some impressive results for silvers on the middle and lower stream; spinners will also work at the confluence of clearwater tributaries. Some tides are still seeing large schools of salmon come in. There are good numbers of spawning chums in some parts of the stream; Dolly Varden opportunities are fair.
KENAI PENINSULA:
RESURRECTION BAY: In the last several days, the silver salmon action has picked up along the beaches and breakwaters in front of town. Good catches have been made by snaggers at the mouth of Scheffler Creek near the boat harbor and a fair and increasing number are being taken by anglers casting spinners from the rocks along the road leading to Lowell Point and the beach area. This run will likely peak this weekend and into next week. A few fresh pinks remain in the bay and are being caught incidentally while targeting silvers. Surf-casting for bottomfish is fair to good.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Silver salmon are moving through the river in good numbers and fishing is productive using streamers and spinners; sight-fishing is possible. Also, a few fresh reds are being taken. Fishing for trout and char is excellent right now using beads and flies.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Sight-fishing for silver salmon is excellent at dawn in the lower river around the campground but can be very good in sanctuary area as well. Limit for silvers is 1 fish. Red salmon are starting to spawn and anglers are doing great targeting rainbows and Dolly Varden. Note: The red salmon season ended August 20.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Target still and slow-moving sections of water, such as around sloughs, eddies, and mouth of clearwater tributaries for good silver salmon action. Eggs and spinners are taking easy limits. Red salmon fishing is allowed again after escapement was met but fishing for them has been very slow around Soldotna this week but fair or better on the middle river above Bing’s Landing; bright and semi-bright specimens are still common. Pink salmon run has matured but still fair opportunity for bright fish. On the middle river, the trout and char fishing is excellent.
SWANSON RIVER: Silvers are still arriving in good numbers on the tides and limits are being taken on eggs and spinners. Additionally, now is a good time to float the river from the Swanson Road access point down to tidewater as silvers are distributed throughout this section. On the upper river, trout fishing is excellent.
ANCHOR, NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP CREEK: These waters are flowing low and clear, providing fair to sometimes good opportunities for silver salmon but the runs are starting to taper off. Scout holes upstream of tidewater at dawn using eggs and spinners. A few steelhead trout are being hooked too. Dolly Varden fishing is fair to good on the upper reaches of these waters. Note: Seasonal bait ban takes effect September 1st.
Updated August 23, 2018
Weekly Summary: Late summer rains are proving to be a consistent yet unpredictable factor in the quality of fishing in the Southcentral region and may prove a boon is some fisheries and a bust in others. Overall, fishing for silver salmon has been great in many areas and locations while high and murky water has slowed things down in some spots despite lots of fish present. The key this time of year is to be flexible in options, always having a backup plan should things not go as originally planned. Those willing to move around and work with the weather are finding excellent action for primarily silvers but there is still some productive fishing to be had for pinks and even reds in addition to a peak bite for rainbows, grayling, and Dolly Varden. Late August and September can be a really good time to find halibut (and other species of marine fish) around the mouths of salmon spawning streams, something of which surf-casters can take advantage.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: KENAI SILVERS, TROUT, & CHAR; LITTLE SUSITNA SILVERS; FISH, WASILLA, COTTONWOOD, JIM SILVERS; SWANSON SILVERS & RAINBOWS; ANCHOR, DEEP, NINILCHIK SILVERS; CAMPBELL, BIRD SILVERS; BYERS SILVERS & RAINBOWS
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
BYERS CREEK: While water levels have fluctuated quite a bit, the stream is running clear and silvers are showing up in good numbers along with a decent supply of rainbows. Prepare to catch-and-release blush salmon if looking for bright/semi-bright specimens. A few reasonably nice reds remain. Pinks and chums are spawning and dying.
RABIDEUX CREEK: Hitting this stream in early morning targeting silvers with salmon roe has yielded good to excellent results last few days and expected to hold steady. Fish can be found from Susitna confluence up to highway crossing and beyond. A number of rainbows also present in middle and upper reaches. Soak herring/salmon parts for fair shot at burbot at stream mouth.
SUNSHINE CREEK: Fishing here at first light drifting roe and casting spinners is producing very good catches of silver salmon where the creek flows into the Susitna. There is also a fair number of mostly blush chums around in addition to a few old pinks and reds. Soak herring/salmon parts for fair shot at burbot at stream mouth.
MONTANA, SHEEP, LITTLE WILLOW, WILLOW CREEKS: Although water conditions here are fairly high and sometimes quite turbid depending on stream, anglers will find decent opportunities for silvers in slow flowing ares near shore using eggs. Rains are predicted to persist over the weekend but these streams should be in good shape mid next week for silvers, rainbows, and grayling. Mouths are producing fish but sections around the highway crossings should be a better bet for silvers as the runs advance upstream. A few fresh chums still present.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: The lower river continues to produce good silver salmon action. Success can be had in early morning soaking eggs or casting spinners. Some silvers are also being caught in the Houston area and getting better. A few fresh chums available but most are in spawning condition. Pink run is ending.
FISH CREEK: The success rate among anglers has varied depending on day and tide but generally good for silvers with some days excellent. Eggs and spinners are working great. The red salmon run has slowed but a number of fresh fish are still coming in and can be successfully targeted in the fast water upstream of tidewater using flies.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Likely the last very productive fishing period coming up if wanting silver salmon. Good numbers of fish are coming through with opening day usually being best. Drifting eggs and casting spinners popular. Rainbows are being caught in upper stream.
WASILLA CREEK: Schools of silver salmon moving through stream and the action should be good over the weekend. Some fish are blushing but many bright salmon available too. Rabbit Slough access site up to near the highway crossing is holding silvers. A few old pinks, reds, and chums present.
JIM CREEK: Fishing for silvers is peaking and anglers are hitting them using eggs and spinners. The early morning bite has been good to excellent but can be productive all day as schools of salmon pull into the mouth.The red run is winding down and only a few specimens (along with occasional chum) are being caught. Good char opportunities in upper stream.
EKLUTNA TAILRACE: Silvers are arriving and anglers do well soaking eggs on the bottom at dawn. Some of the fish are blushing but fresh specimens are available, especially a few hours following a large high tide. Dolly Varden are being caught in small numbers in addition to a few reds and chums.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: Flowing high and off color, anglers here will find the best opportunities in the upper reaches between the Paxson Lake outlet and the rapids where water clarity is good at this time. Rainbows and grayling are present and fishing for them is good to excellent.
PORT VALDEZ: Very heavy rains a few days ago soiled the water at the head of the port with silt and debris but fish are present and should provide decent action once water begins to clear, likely early next week. Silvers and chums are arriving and schools of them are entering the boat harbor and available to anglers casting bait off the city dock. Fair silver catches from shore, good from boat. Allison Point is starting to pick up and could be hot in a matter of several days.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
SHIP CREEK: Still a productive spot, especially on an early morning tide or during rainy weather. Fair to good catches of silver salmon possible floating eggs and casting spinners. Some fish are starting to blush but many chromers still. Pink and chum runs are ending. A few reds have been caught last couple of weeks.
CAMPBELL CREEK: Good silver salmon fishing at dawn in deep holes using eggs. Lots of fish coming through after a steady downpour. Anglers are catching nice fish from the forks near Piper Street down to Dimond Blvd. bridge. Rainbows and Dollies provide good action in upper reaches.
BIRD CREEK: A mix of wild and hatchery silvers present, providing fair to good action on the tides. Eggs have been best but spinners and flies are getting fish too. A very few decent chums remain but most of the pinks and chums are now gone.
PORTAGE CREEK: High and silty. Successful anglers are soaking eggs on the bottom around tidewater or in deep, slow holes and sloughs in middle section. Very good catches some days. Chum and red runs are nearing an end; occasional bright specimens only. Pinks mostly finished. Fair catches of char in middle and upper reaches.
SIXMILE CREEK: Some decent catches being made when water levels not too high or turbid. Eggs and spinners are getting the most fish. Seek out deep and slow water in lower stream on up to Canyon Creek confluence. Chum and pink runs are nearly finished.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Good to excellent catches of rainbow trout and Dolly Varden; egg imitation flies and beads best. Silvers are increasing in numbers with good fishing in spots using flies and spinners. Red salmon run is nearing completion as fish are starting to spawn but a few chrome and semi-bright fish are present.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Anglers that enjoy sight-fishing will find this river a great spot targeting silvers, especially at dawn. Decent push of fish are moving into the mouth and the lower river. Remember, the limit here is 1 silver; additionally, the red salmon season ended August 20. Beads and assortment of flies are responsible for good catches of trout and char.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Good silver salmon fishing at dawn using eggs and spinners; target spots such as mouth of sloughs and tails of channels or anywhere slow-moving water is present. The river has reopened to red salmon fishing and bright/semi-bright fish are being caught drifting flies; the middle river section above Sterling is best. Lots of pinks around but most are blush; for quality fish try near tidewater. Trout and char action is good to excellent but best in middle river; use beads.
SWANSON RIVER: Early morning high tides are good for silver salmon. Use eggs and spinners. Scouting water higher up can also be very productive. Rainbows are providing good to excellent sport in upper reaches along with a smaller number of char.
NINILCHIK RIVER: Water conditions are good for fishing and anglers are getting some quick silver salmon bites using eggs at first light around highway crossing and above. Also try mouth of river on incoming tides. First few steelhead arriving. Pink run is ending. For Dollies, go high in the drainage
DEEP CREEK: Good silver salmon fishing in early morning using eggs and spinners. Tidewater area is producing nice catches but fish can be found in deep holes above highway crossing as well. Pink run is ending. Try upper stream for char; good action right now. Steelhead trout are starting to arrive.
ANCHOR RIVER: Drifting eggs and casting spinners are providing good action for silvers at dawn with salmon being caught from tidewater up to marker. Pink run is ending. A few steelhead trout are showing up. Dolly Varden fishing is quite good in upper stream.
COOK INLET: Surf-casting for halibut and other bottomfish can be productive on large high tides using bait. Species available also include spiny dogfish, skate, and cod. Whiskey Gulch, Ninilchik Beach, and the mouths of Kasilof and Kenai rivers are all good spots to try.
Updated August 16, 2018
Weekly Summary: As recent heavy rains and flooding become a thing of the past, anglers can look forward to a weekend of really good fishing throughout much of the Southcentral Alaska road system. The streams of Susitna Valley are dropping and starting to clear, revealing large quantities of silver salmon in many areas and new emergency orders are in effect calling for doubled bag and possession limits due to the onslaught of fish. Not to be outdone, locations in Anchorage, Knik Arm, Turnagain Arm, and the Kenai Peninsula are seeing indications of large numbers of silver salmon arriving as well with good or better action expected or currently taking place. Fishing for resident species like rainbow trout and Dolly Varden is also picking up substantially as salmon begin dropping eggs and the weather cools. But if looking for other kinds of salmon, there are still good opportunities for both red and pink salmon on the peninsula and chums are active in the Susitna drainage. Additionally, now is a good time to prospect for shallow water halibut along the beaches of Cook Inlet and some of the biggest fish of the year are often encountered in late summer and fall.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: LITTLE SUSITNA SILVERS; FISH SILVERS; COTTONWOOD SILVERS; WASILLA SILVERS; WILLOW SILVERS; SHEEP SILVERS; MONTANA SILVERS; SHIP SILVERS; BIRD SILVERS; UPPER KENAI RAINBOWS, DOLLIES; LOWER KENAI SILVERS, PINKS, RAINBOWS; DEEP SILVERS; ANCHOR SILVERS
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
MONTANA CREEK: Still flowing somewhat high but water is clearing and silvers are biting. This weekend should offer good to excellent fishing at the mouth of the stream; look for salmon to be holding in pockets of water upstream to the highway crossing and above as well. Salmon roe is best but hardware and flies work also. Small number of fresh chums present; pinks mostly spawning. As water continues to drop, the trout and grayling fishing will pick up.
SHEEP CREEK: Somewhat turbid yet but water level is dropping and clearing. Best salmon fishing is at mouth for a mixed bag of silvers and chums. Casting spinners or floating salmon roe is the trick for good silver catches. Success for rainbows and grayling is fair right now but will improve significantly over the weekend into next week barring more heavy rain; try around road crossing or above.
LITTLE WILLOW CREEK: Schools of salmon moving upstream to road crossing and beyond; good time to target silver salmon using roe and spinners. Water is a bit high but dropping and clearing up. Chums, pinks also available but most are blushed or spawning. Fishing for rainbows and grayling will turn productive very shortly as stream conditions improve.
WILLOW CREEK: Somewhat high, fast, and slightly murky, anglers are finding the best salmon fishing at the mouth where good to excellent silver salmon catches are being made; roe and spinners best bets. Still a fair number of fresh chums to be had while the pinks are largely in spawning condition. As water drops and clears completely, expect to find lots of silvers up to the highway crossing too with a hot morning bite using eggs. Rainbows and grayling along with a few Dolly Varden are present and fishing for them will get better in the next several days.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: After a prolonged period of high and dirty water, conditions are finally looking more favorable as the river drops and clears. Loads of silver salmon are present and anglers can expect good to excellent catches near the Burma access site on the lower river; the Houston area is seeing fair numbers of silvers arriving. Drifting or setting salmon roe on the bottom is best but spinners and flies will be effective shortly. Some fresh chums still coming in; pinks are spawning and dying off.
FISH CREEK: Excellent catches here of silver salmon in early morning and on the tides, especially during weekdays; use salmon roe, spinners, and flies. Schools of fish can be located in stream above tidewater at first light. Additionally, there are decent numbers of red salmon moving through, albeit many of the fish are starting to turn but a number of chrome fish can still be found. A few spawning pinks and chums present.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: While the red run has fizzled out for the year, angling for silver salmon has only gotten better and very good action may be had on incoming, high, and outgoing tides. Set or drift eggs or cast spinners. Fishing for reds is slow. For good trout opportunities, try higher up in the drainage.
WASILLA CREEK: A good shot of silver salmon arriving here and the opener should hold solid opportunities from tidewater upstream to near the highway crossing. Scout deeper holes or look for schools of fish moving upstream; cast eggs or spinners. Some older reds, pinks, and chums also available.
JIM CREEK: As water conditions improve around the Knik confluence, the bulk of the silver run here is about to hit shortly. Anglers are doing fair to good now but action could spike to very good or better within the next several days. There are still some reds being caught but the number and condition of the fish is decreasing. Dolly Varden fishing is good on the upper stream near the lakes.
EKLUTNA TAILRACE: Silver salmon are arriving in good numbers and anglers are scoring limits in the early morning hours; soak eggs for best results but some are being caught on spinners too. A few blush reds and chums are present, including an occasional straggler king salmon. The Dolly Varden bite is fair.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: Plagued by very high and turbid water in the lower and middle reaches recently, conditions are getting better for fishing and small numbers of red salmon are moving through. However, the upper river right below Paxson Lake is doing great for grayling and rainbows right now.
ROBE RIVER: Anglers scouting this small clearwater stream are finding very good Dolly Varden fishing amidst spawning pink salmon; try beads or egg imitation flies. There are also some silvers showing up at the Lowe River confluence and in deeper spots along the stream. If venturing much beyond the road crossing, bears are active here this time of year.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
SHIP CREEK: The tides, particularly if in early morning, are producing good to excellent silver salmon fishing on eggs and spinners. Some silvers are also being taken on low tide by sight-fishing. An emergency order here has the bag limit for silvers at 6 now. Pinks and a few chums present; most are dark, very few fresh specimens left.
CAMPBELL CREEK: While rain has put the damper on many area streams, it has only helped this location by pushing fresh silvers into waters open to salmon fishing. Anglers are getting limits of silvers at dawn out of various holes on the lower stretch; eggs are best but spinners and flies will work as well. Trout and char action is productive in upper areas of the creek.
BIRD CREEK: Water conditions here are perfect for really good silver salmon fishing. Anglers floating eggs on the incoming and outgoing tide are taking home limits but casting spinners and flies is effective in getting strikes also. A few bright and semi-bright chums present but most are spawning now, like the pinks.
PORTAGE CREEK: Flowing high and silty, anglers here are successful catching silvers on eggs fished on the bottom in tidewater and holes immediately upstream. Some days bring very good fishing, other times fair; run should begin to peak this coming week. A few fresh chums available still along with an occasional pink and red; most of these fish are in or near spawning condition. Dolly Varden fair.
SIXMILE CREEK: As water conditions improve, good silver salmon fishing can be experienced on the lower stream along Hope Highway. This weekend and next week should yield some nice catches in spots. Pinks and chums are spawning and dying.
RESURRECTION CREEK: Anglers seeking silvers are finding fair to good success on incoming tides and in holes upstream of tidewater at first light. A few fresh chums and an occasional bright pink still possible but the runs of these species have peaked with most fish spawning and dying.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: A premier trout and char destination this time of year, anglers are finding excellent success casting/drifting beads or egg imitations anywhere between Kenai Lake outlet downstream to the inlet of Skilak Lake. Kings and reds are spawning; match the hatch. A few nice reds are coming through in the Russian River area and more silvers are appearing by the day; expect fair to good success for the latter casting flies or spinners.
RUSSIAN RIVER: One of the very last spots for productive red salmon fishing; generally fair but can be very good at dawn scouting the stretch of water between the campground at mouth. Bright fish are available but many are starting to turn color. Quite a few silvers are now showing and can be successfully targeted in early morning or down in the sanctuary. Fly-fishers are scoring rainbows and Dollies using beads.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Silver salmon are arriving in large numbers and anglers soaking eggs or casting spinners are catching limits near tidewater and as high as Bing’s Landing. This run should begin to peak very shortly. Decent numbers of reds are moving in on the tides as well but are currently off limits by emergency order. Fair to good fishing for pinks may be had between the river mouth and Soldotna and there are still bright and semi-bright fish coming in. For excellent trout and char action, try stretch of river between Soldotna and the outlet of Skilak Lake; use beads.
SWANSON RIVER: A good return of silver salmon here with the best fishing occurring on incoming tides using eggs and spinners. Anglers may find schools of fish in holes upstream of tidewater as well. Rainbow trout are very active in the upper river near the Swanson River Road access site.
KASILOF RIVER: Good silver salmon action on the lower river following high tide; soak eggs near the mouth of Crooked Creek. Some pinks available. The red run is coming to an end but fair numbers of bright and semi-bright fish may still be caught on the upper river near Tustumena Lake. Dolly Varden fishing is good.
NINILCHIK RIVER: Anglers scouting the deeper holes and runs in early morning are finding good catches of silver salmon using salmon roe and spinners; tides may also produce worthwhile action. A few blush or dark kings remain (hatchery kings may be retained through October 31). Fishing for Dolly Varden is fair to good in the upper stream. A few pinks left still. First steelhead due any day.
DEEP CREEK: Soak eggs or cast spinners at dawn in deep holes for silver salmon; some fish also being caught off the tides. Good success right now as run begins to peak. Few pinks left. Dolly Varden fishing is fair to good on upper stream. First steelhead due any day.
ANCHOR RIVER: Good fishing for silver salmon at dawn in deep holes upstream and on the tides. Drifting salmon roe is best but casting spinners and flies also productive. Small number of pinks present. For Dolly Varden, scout upper stretches of water along the highway and North Fork Road. First steelhead due any day.
COOK INLET: Anglers interested in catching halibut from shore should try surf-casting the beaches here at high tide. Not fast action but steady for fish in the 5- to 20-pound range; use herring or chunks of salmon scraps. Cod, skate, and spiny dogfish also present. Look for schools of silver salmon passing by; cast spinners.
Updated August 9, 2018
Weekly Summary: The prognosis for fishing opportunities this weekend has slimmed just a bit due largely to a very active and wet weather system passing over the Matanuska-Susitna Valleys and swaths of Copper Valley as well, prompting the National Weather Service to release flood watches that affected many popular fisheries. Waters, mainly runoff rivers and creeks, have crested and are beginning to slowly drop yet will need several days to recover before the fishing gets back to normal. However, there is still some productive fishing to be had in these same areas, primarily in lake-based drainages that keenly absorb torrential rains and will run clear (but high) to a large extent and thus continuing to provide very decent angling opportunities. A few of them are having very strong or even record returns of both reds and silvers, such as the smaller streams around Wasilla and Palmer north of Anchorage, and emergency orders extending days open to fishing and increasing bag and possession limits are now in effect. The western, central, and northern portions of the Kenai Peninsula escaped major flooding issues and are producing good numbers of silver salmon in addition to some viable red salmon action. While most waters in the Southcentral region are now seeing a marked decrease in pink and chum salmon due to spawning season starting up, a few late-run locations still produce some hot fishing that will continue for at least another ten days. Surf-casters should note that the big tides occurring now are perfect for encountering halibut and cod close to shore.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: RUSSIAN REDS; FISH REDS & SILVERS; KASILOF REDS; COTTONWOOD SILVERS; LOWER KENAI SILVERS & PINKS; WASILLA SILVERS; HOMER SILVERS; VALDEZ PINKS; UPPER KENAI RAINBOWS & DOLLIES
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
BYERS CREEK: This northern stream is running clear but high, offering good fishing for red and chum salmon. The recent rains prompted fish to move upstream and anglers are finding schools from the highway crossing downstream to the Chulitna confluence. Bright and semi-bright salmon are available but many fish are starting to blush, especially the chums. Pinks also present. A few silvers are now showing up here. Fishing for rainbow trout is fair.
SUNSHINE CREEK: Water is high and a bit silty, such as at the Susitna confluence, but clear upstream. Look for schools of salmon. Good fishing for mainly silvers and some chums; most of the chums and pinks are turning. A few reds are present. Burbot are hitting bait at stream mouth.
CASWELL CREEK: Flowing clear but a bit silty and high down towards mouth on the Susitna. Schools of salmon available; good action for silvers. Pinks and chums can be abundant but are turning color. Soak bait for burbot in confluence area.
FISH CREEK: An exceptionally strong return of red and silver salmon is arriving and good to excellent action to be expected come the opener this Saturday morning; try around road crossing in early morning and on the tides. The stream is now open to fishing 7 days a week and the bag limit for reds is 6, silvers 4 by emergency order. Pinks along with a few chums are also present.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Starting this Friday (the 10th), the stream will open to fishing four days a week by emergency order (now Friday through Monday). Also, the new bag limit for silver salmon is 4 fish as the run here is early and strong and anglers can expect good to excellent action on the morning of the opener as well as on the tides. Rainbow fishing is fair to good upstream.
WASILLA CREEK: Same as nearby Cottonwood Creek, starting this Friday (the 10th), the stream will open to fishing four days a week by emergency order (now Friday through Monday) and the bag limit for silver salmon is now 4 fish. While not as clear as other area waters, anglers will likely find good silver opportunities in the more quiet sections around Rabbit Slough. Some reds, pinks, chums present.
JIM CREEK: Although the red run is subsiding here, the void is being taken up by a sizable showing of silver salmon. Fair to good fishing may be had where the clear waters of the stream hits the glacial Knik River. Minor flooding can be an issue here concerning the Knik but Jim will fish perfectly fine. Use eggs. A few Dolly Varden present at mouth but fair to good upstream.
EKLTUNA TAILRACE: The silvers are just now starting to arrive in good numbers and anglers are catching them on primarily salmon roe soaking on the bottom or fished with a bobber. Limits are possible. Some reds and chums present but are starting to blush. A few dark kings are milling around still (king season here is open year-round). Some Dolly Varden also being caught.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
GULKANA RIVER: The upper section of the river just downstream of Paxson Lake is still flowing clear but high and the rainbow trout and grayling fishing is very good, along with decent lake trout action at the lake outlet. However, anglers should be aware of water conditions through the canyon and from the forks downstream which are very high, muddy, and fast at this time due to heavy rains in the area.
PORT VALDEZ: There is a very large mass of pinks present in the port, primarily around Allison Point and Solomon Gulch hatchery, although a great majority of them are in or near spawning condition; however, anglers are still catching a fair number of chrome and semi-bright fish, but this opportunity will not last much longer as the run matures. A few silvers have begun arriving to the area but fishing for them has been spotty at best. Chums are arriving in the boat harbor and surrounding waters.
ROBE RIVER: Mainly blush and spawning pinks and a few chums here, yet the Dolly Varden action is very good throughout much of the stream using beads and egg-imitation flies. A few silvers are making an early appearance.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
SHIP CREEK: Good fishing for silver salmon persists and anglers are also reporting catches of pinks and a few chums, albeit the latter two species are likely to be in spawning condition at this time. Tides have been best using eggs and spinners but fish are also being taken on low water after tide has gone out. An occasional straggler king may be present (closed).
BIRD CREEK: Recent rains here have helped push more silvers into the stream and anglers are faring well using eggs on the tides. Limits of fish are being brought in on a regular basis. Pinks and chums are quickly thinning out; a few nice specimens of the latter continue to be available.
PORTAGE CREEK: Soaking salmon roe on the bottom in tidewater or deep holes in the lower stream is the way to go here in catching silver salmon. Red, pink, and chum salmon are also still arriving but these runs are slowing down; fresh chums will be available in fair numbers in the middle stream section for another week or more yet. Dolly Varden fishing is fair.
RESURRECTION CREEK: The pink salmon run here is ending and very few bright specimens are left; however, anglers are finding fair to good opportunities for silver salmon on the tides using eggs and spinners. Scout holes in the lower and middle stream in early morning as well.
SIXMILE CREEK: Fair to good silver salmon action in areas of this fast-flowing glacial drainage; look for calm water that concentrates fish. The Canyon Creek confluence can be good at times this time of year. Pinks and chums are present but mainly in spawning condition at this time.
KENAI PENINSULA:
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Good to excellent fishing for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden, mainly from the Russian confluence downstream to Skilak Lake, but can be very productive throughout its length. A few fresh reds are being caught; majority of fish are blush to quite dark. Silvers are increasing in numbers but generally fair at best.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Solid number of red salmon pushing upstream and best intercepted at dawn on the lower river; easy bag limits reported sight-fishing. Hike upstream of campground or go to Kenai confluence later in the morning or afternoon to find fish. Many of the fish are starting to blush but bright and semi-bright salmon still common. A few silvers arriving. Good trout and char action.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Fair to excellent action for silver salmon at dawn using eggs and spinners. Tidewater and above is best but fish may be found all the way to Skilak Lake. Nice fish weighing into the mid-teens are being caught. Pink salmon are abundant from mouth to Sterling with brightest specimens encountered in or near tidewater; good to excellent. Very productive fishing for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden throughout the river but best in areas upstream of Bing’s Landing.
SWANSON RIVER: Anglers are finding fair to good fishing for silvers on the tides but small schools of salmon may be encountered as high as the Swanson River Road access site. Rainbow trout opportunities are good to excellent in the upper river.
KASILOF RIVER: While the number of red salmon entering the lower river is generally on the decline, anglers trying the upper river down through the rapids are finding good to excellent fishing with easy limits possible (6 fish by emergency order). Additionally, silver salmon are showing up and striking offerings near the Crooked Creek campground; fair. Pinks can be fairly abundant with some bright fish available.
NINILCHIK RIVER: Fair to good fishing for silver salmon, mainly in early morning in deep holes around and above the road crossing or on the tides at the river mouth. Eggs and spinners are best. A small number of blush to red kings remain (hatchery kings may be retained through October 31). Action for Dolly Varden is fair to good; higher up in the drainage is better. Some pinks present, few bright specimens remain.
DEEP CREEK: The lower river and tidewater holes produce fair to good fishing for silvers around the tides; head upstream for the early morning bite. Some pinks still arriving but few fresh salmon available. For Dolly Varden, the upper stream is producing some good catches.
ANCHOR RIVER: For silver salmon, fair to good action may be found in deep holes and runs at dawn using eggs or spinners. Also try the tides for incoming fish. Pinks are coming in but few bright or semi-bright fish left. The upper river has the best Dolly Varden action; look for areas where kings are spawning.
COOK INLET: Great tides for surf-casting halibut this weekend and early next week between Ninilchik and Anchor Point. Peak times are two hours before to two hours after high. Cod also possible along with spiny dogfish and skate. Schools of silver salmon may be present; bring along a spinning rod just in case.
DUDIAK LAGOON: By emergency order, this location will open to snagging this coming Saturday (the 11th). Very large numbers of silver salmon are present in the lagoon as well as along the beach nearby; expect excellent catches. Many fish are starting to blush but a fair number of salmon are still nice and chrome. This may not be the best spot if trying to hook a fish in the mouth as the snagging crowd will be out in force. Fair success is also being had surf-casting for silvers off the beaches around the spit. Some pinks present.
Updated August 6, 2018
Weekly Summary: The big news on the road system is the early and strong appearance of silver salmon in many coastal rivers and streams. Some waters started seeing infiltrations of this species as long as three to four weeks ago, the lagoon in Homer leading the way followed by smaller drainages up into Cook Inlet, Turnagain Arm, the Susitna system, and Knik Arm. It is now apparent that silvers have taken a commanding role in our regional fisheries, even overshadowing the typically much larger red salmon runs this time of the season. But this comes as a very welcome opportunity as the closure of Kenai River red salmon made the news following an inconsistent representation for the species (in addition to kings) in many waters this year. Still, if interest in landing some roadside reds for the freezer or tangling with trophy kings, there are some locations producing some very good fishing right now, primarily the Russian River on the Kenai Peninsula and tributaries of the Copper River in Copper Valley. Aside from this, chums are making a robust showing in some places, most notably the Susitna River drainage, and pinks are still present in decent numbers in Hope and Valdez with the late run to Kenai River just now accumulating. For other game fish, rainbows, grayling, and Dolly Varden are beginning to peak in most waters throughout Southcentral, and halibut and other bottomfish are commonly encountered by surf-casters in multiple coastal locations. Note: With the advent of commercial fishing closures in areas of Cook Inlet due to low red salmon returns to Kenai River, anglers can expect a large push of silvers and late-arriving pinks, chums, and reds to waters of the upper inlet, including the Kenai River, the Susitna River drainage, and streams in Knik Arm and Turnagain Arm.
CURRENT HOT SPOTS: RUSSIAN REDS; SHIP SILVERS; KASILOF REDS; LITTLE SUSITNA SILVERS & CHUMS; KLUTINA KINGS; WILLOW SILVERS & CHUMS; HOMER SILVERS; SHEEP CHUMS & RAINBOWS; VALDEZ PINKS; MONTANA CHUMS & RAINBOWS; UPPER KENAI RAINBOWS & DOLLIES; GULKANA REDS, RAINBOWS, & GRAYLING
MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEYS:
NOTE: The Susitna River Basin is under flood watch starting Monday, June 6. Fishing conditions may change rapidly and drastically from what is described below. Read NWS document here.
MONTANA CREEK: Chums are peaking in this Susitna stream and the run is starting to venture upstream; many bright fish are available but there are also many fish that are turning. Expect good to excellent catches. Silvers are becoming increasingly more numerous with limits possible. Pinks are abundant with a mix of bright and mature specimens present. For rainbows and grayling, head to upper reaches where the king spawn is ongoing.
SHEEP CREEK: The mouth is the place to be for fast salmon action. Chums are available in large numbers there as well as throughout the lower stream; good to excellent success right now. Pinks also numerous but showing signs of maturity. Silvers are arriving with fair fishing and limits possible; next week to ten days should see a good uptick in action. Rainbows and grayling are found in the middle and upper stream sections.
KASHWITNA RIVER: As long as the water stays reasonably low with minimum silt influence, the fishing here can be excellent for chums at the mouth and lower stream sections. Silvers are showing in strength with decent action possible. Pinks abundant but maturing. Rainbows and grayling offer fair fishing upstream of highway crossing.
LITTLE WILLOW CREEK: Good success for chums and pinks at road crossing but likely last productive weekend for these species as runs are quickly maturing. If access to mouth, brighter fish can be had. Fair fishing for silvers; best very early morning. Rainbows and grayling are fishing well from bridge on upstream where kings are spawning.
WILLOW CREEK: Chums and pinks are making an excellent account of themselves in this location along with a fair number of silvers. Chrome to semi-bright specimens are common yet there is an increasing percentage of fish turning color, this being especially the case up towards the road crossing. For best quality fish, go to the mouth. A small number of silvers have made it to the highway bridge and beyond. Next week will see silvers really turn on. Upper stream has the best rainbow and grayling action.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: Silvers are pushing up in good numbers and limits of fish is common. Bait is allowed starting August 6; expect excellent silver salmon success to be had. While the chum run may have peaked in quality, there are still nice, fresh fish coming in with good action to be had on the lower river. Pinks are more numerous by the day yet many of these salmon are maturing. The Houston area is seeing large quantities of chums arriving with fair opportunities for bright/semi-bright specimens; a few silvers are present too.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Weekend-only fishery. Reds are still arriving and fishing should be fair to good come Saturday; also, silvers are making a reasonable appearance with limits possible on the tides. Rainbows offer fair to good action in upper sections. Nearby Fish Creek will open to sport fishing the weekend of August 12.
WASILLA CREEK: Weekend-only fishery. Decent run of silvers arriving; good opportunities should be available on the opener early Saturday morning. There are also reds, pinks, and chums present; fair catches on these species as most fish are turning color.
COPPER VALLEY-VALDEZ ARM:
NOTE: Parts of the Copper River Basin is under flood watch starting Monday, June 6. Fishing conditions may change rapidly and drastically from what is described below. Read NWS document here.
GULKANA RIVER: Late-run reds are coming through in good numbers and anglers are doing very well as long as the water stays low and clear. The mid-section of water up to the forks is best. Grayling and rainbows are yielding great fishing between the West and Middle forks, particularly around the canyon. Also very good action for lake trout at Paxson Lake outlet.
KLUTINA, TONSINA RIVERS: Ideal stream conditions for productive king salmon fishing. Trophy catches up to 50 pounds being made in mid-section of rivers; expect good to excellent fishing. Reds are also coming through in decent numbers on the Tonsina; Klutina reds are slow to fair. Dolly Varden and grayling fishing is fair, best at mouth of clearwater tributaries.
PORT VALDEZ: Pink salmon are present in large numbers, especially between Allison Point and Solomon Gulch Hatchery; good to excellent success awaits. Anglers seeking chrome, quality fish will have to sort through blush specimens. First few silvers of the season reported caught from shore. Action on the town side of the port is less intense for pinks; chums also available. The Robe River is full of pinks, most of which are turning, with the addition of fair to good Dolly Varden catches.
ANCHORAGE AREA-TURNAGAIN ARM:
SHIP CREEK: Tides are bringing in large numbers of silver salmon and fishing for them can be good, especially in the early morning. Limits of three fish are common. There is also a sizable presence of pinks and chums with most of these fish turning color, but a few bright/semi-bright fish are possible still.
PORTAGE CREEK: A good mix of species present in this glacial stream. Anglers fishing in tidewater are finding fair to good success using salmon eggs or spinners for chums, silvers, and pinks, while the middle stream section near or along Portage Glacier Road is producing more chums along with a few reds and Dolly Varden.
RESURRECTION CREEK: The pink run here peaked about ten days ago but a small number of semi-bright fish are available and a few chromers as well. The far lower end and the tides are producing the best chance for quality fish; prepare to catch-and-release a lot of blush specimens. Some nice chums are being caught also. Anglers targeting silvers are seeing fair catches with a few limits achieved on the tides or sight-fishing lower stream in early morning.
SIXMILE CREEK: The lower stream is seeing a productive streak of fair to good silver salmon action these days; deep holes and sloughs are best. Chums and pinks are relatively abundant but fresh fish are becoming increasingly difficult to find these days.
KENAI PENINSULA:
RESURRECTION BAY: Pinks and chums are abundant off the mouth of Tonsina Creek on the west side of the bay, just south of Lowell Point. Fishing is fair to good on the incoming tides with some anglers doing better snagging. Chrome and semi-bright fish are present but many are starting to blush. A few silvers are possible as well. Pinks are also arriving in other parts of the bay, such as Spring Creek and the breakwater in front of town. Surf-casting for bottomfish can be good in spots with occasional catches of halibut.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Good fishing for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden and getting better every day. The best area is from Sportsman’s Landing down to Skilak Lake inlet. Some red salmon are present. A trickle of silvers now arriving but fishing for them is very slow.
RUSSIAN RIVER: The last several days have seen strong numbers of late-run red salmon arriving with excellent action in very early morning as fish move up from the Kenai in cover of darkness. Water is low and clear and perfect for sight-fishing. Fishing in main river is slow at mid-day; better bet is confluence area where fair to good success can be had. Most fish are nice and chrome with some starting to blush. A few silvers are showing up. Opportunities for rainbows and Dollies is fair to good as well.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Anglers taking advantage of the last day the river is open to red salmon fishing will find fair to good opportunities before the official shutdown this coming Saturday. Silver salmon are also coming into the river on the tides and a few anglers are successfully targeting them and getting limits; expect fair to good catches this coming week. Pink salmon are arriving in large numbers in the lower end of the river around tidewater and fishing for them is very good to excellent with a few very large specimens present (the parent year yielded two new state records). This run should peak in another week or so. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are very active on the middle river between Bing’s Landing and the Skilak Lake outlet.
KASILOF RIVER: In contrast to nearby Kenai River, the Kasilof is receiving a good and steady supply of reds and fishing varies from fair to excellent depending on day and tide. Additionally, the bag and possession limit has doubled for red salmon to 6 and 12, respectively, starting August 4. Pinks are also arriving in decent numbers, providing fair to good success. Only a few silvers are present at this time but expected to change quickly this coming week and leading up to next weekend.
COOK INLET: Surf-casting for shallow-water halibut is fair to good during cloudy/rainy days on high tides greater than 18 feet, with Ninilchik and Whiskey Gulch being a couple of the more readily accessible locations. Use bait. Spiny dogfish and skate are frequently caught as well, in addition to cod. Watch for schools of silver and pink salmon breaching the surface and use opportunity for potentially good action.
DUDIAK LAGOON: Silver salmon fishing here can be very productive on the tides. Expect good action using roe, spinners, or herring on the incoming and outgoing; best on cloudy/rainy days. Anglers are also getting some silvers and pinks surf-casting the beaches around the Homer Spit.
Updated July 26, 2018
Weekly Summary: While the most recent emergency orders reducing the bag limit for red salmon on the Kenai River to one fish per day and shutting down the dip net fishery completely starting this coming Monday, there are a plethora of opportunities still available all around Southcentral. Silver and/or chum salmon are making a solid account of themselves in many locations, such as the Susitna River drainage, Little Susitna River, Ship Creek, clearwater streams in Turnagain Arm, and the lagoon on the Homer Spit. Pinks are not disappointing in Port Valdez, Resurrection Creek in Hope, and other spots. Additionally, fishing for late-run king salmon has been very good on the Klutina and Tonsina rivers in the Copper Valley this week, with some days producing exceptional catches. All this combined with very productive rainbow trout and grayling fishing throughout the region really defines a great season unfolding. In other words, for the angler with an open mind and flexibility, excellent action awaits!
Weekend Hot Spots: KASILOF REDS; KLUTINA KINGS; VALDEZ PINKS; SHIP SILVERS; HOPE PINKS; LITTLE SUSITNA CHUMS & SILVERS; SUSITNA DRAINAGE CHUMS & RAINBOWS; HOMER SILVERS
MONTANA CREEK: Salmon are really beginning to pile up at the mouth of the stream with chums leading the way providing good sport; decent number of pinks also available with some silvers being caught. For salmon like chums and pinks, this is the weekend to go for bright fish. Rainbows are fishing very well in the middle and upper sections of the stream; grayling are fair. Burbot can be caught at stream mouth using fish bait.
SHEEP CREEK: Best fishing at mouth but salmon are moving upstream in numbers, providing good action throughout. Good to excellent opportunities for chums, fair for pinks. Silvers are increasing in run strength but only fair at best still. Good opportunities for rainbow trout and grayling in upper reaches.
LITTLE WILLOW CREEK: Good to excellent fishing for chums at mouth, fair to good for pinks, spotty to fair for silvers. Schools of salmon are moving upstream with decent action also at road crossing. Rainbows and grayling good upstream of bridge.
WILLOW CREEK: Excellent action for chum salmon at mouth along with good numbers of pinks; silvers are building with fair fishing right now. Great time to target these species for prime condition. There is also productive salmon fishing throughout the lower stream up to the Parks bridge. Trout and grayling provide good fishing upstream of Deception Creek confluence, including this small tributary.
RABIDEUX, SUNSHINE, CASWELL CREEKS: A great mix of species at times, including reds, pinks, chums and silvers plus a small number of trout, char, and grayling. Chums most abundant, followed by pinks, then reds and silvers. Burbot can be caught on fish baits at the mouth of these waters.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: Chum salmon continue to dominate this fishery in terms of numbers, providing excellent catches at the Burma road access point; this run is at a peak. Anglers targeting silvers do well at first light with limits common. Some pinks available. A very few late-run reds are present. The Houston area is seeing a fair push of chums. Kings are still moving through the river in decent numbers but, as a reminder, are closed to fishing.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Weekend-only fishery. Good number of reds still present on tides; last productive weekend for this species here. Silvers are beginning to show with slow to fair opportunities available; nearby Wasilla Creek also seeing some silvers. Rainbow trout action is decent in upper reaches of the stream.
KLUTINA RIVER: Water has cleared and anglers are doing very well on salmon, especially kings. Reds are providing some sport with limits at times but the peak is past. Late-run kings are peaking in numbers and targeting them has been good to excellent last several days; expect more of the same this coming week as run continues strong. Nearby Tonsina River also reports good king action.
GULKANA RIVER: Anglers floating or hiking in are finding fair fishing for red salmon but good to superb catches of trout and grayling, particularly on the middle river between Paxson Lake and West Fork confluence. Kings are off-limits; season closed by regulation on July 19th.
PORT VALDEZ: The pink salmon run is doing well here, albeit not the great numbers hoped for, but anglers still scoring good to excellent catches on the tides from Allison Point to the mouth of Solomon Gulch Creek. Many of the fish are starting to change color but good numbers of chrome pinks left still. The city side of the bay has pinks in addition to some chums. No silvers reported from shore yet.
SHIP CREEK: Good catches of silvers on the incoming and outgoing tides floating eggs and casting spinners; a number of pinks and chums also being caught. A trickle of kings still coming in; fishing for them is closed for the season.
BIRD CREEK: Silvers are arriving on every tide with some anglers limiting out (3 fish). Although the pink run is small this year, there is still some decent action for bright fish available but many fish are starting to turn color. A number of chum salmon are present. Anglers should be aware of a couple of brown bears stalking the area looking for stringers of fish.
RESURRECTION CREEK: Still some good pink action to be had here; plenty of chrome fish entering on the tide cycle but many of the salmon are turning color at this point in the season. Chums also available in fair numbers. Silver salmon fishing is spotty at best but will improve in another week to ten days.
KENAI RIVER: Late-run reds enter the river in varying numbers and fishing ranges from poor to very good depending on the day and tide cycle. Despite emergency order going into effect on Monday reducing bag limit to one fish, there could be some very worthwhile catches (and 3-fish limits) made this weekend. This is the last weekend the river is open to king salmon fishing; success has been poor to fair recently and the season closes July 31st. Pinks are building in numbers on the lower river downstream of Soldotna. Incidental catches of silvers have been made by anglers targeting reds. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden fishing is good from the Soldotna area upstream to Skilak Lake and throughout the Upper Kenai River.
KASILOF RIVER: Red salmon continue to fluctuate in numbers greatly according to days with some individual tides producing fast limits and excellent fishing, while other times the action is only fair at best. Late-run kings are present and best targeted by boat; slow to fair success reported.
DUDIAK LAGOON: Steady and good fishing for silver salmon with some anglers scoring limits of six fish; a few early morning tides have produced excellent action, especially on cloudy/rainy days. This run is starting to peak and will remain productive for the next two weeks. An occasional nice king still possible.
Updated July 20, 2018
Weekly Summary: Things are starting to get busy around the Southcentral region with late-run kings and reds entering the Kenai and Kasilof rivers on the peninsula and Klutina and Tonsina rivers in Copper Valley, pinks and chums showing in increasing numbers in most waterways north, east, and south of Anchorage, and even silvers are making a noticeable contribution to coastal as well as inland fisheries. On top of that, rainbows, grayling, and Dolly Varden are commanding attention in many drainages and shallow-water halibut are prowling the beaches and off points along the Gulf of Alaska and associated inlets and bays. The issue is quickly becoming where exactly to go because the fishing is very good in so many locations these days and should be even better the next ten days to two weeks or more.
Weekend Hot Spots: KENAI RIVER REDS & RAINBOWS; PORT VALDEZ PINKS; KASILOF RIVER REDS; SHIP CREEK SILVERS; RESURRECTION CREEK PINKS; KLUTINA RIVER REDS; GULKANA RIVER REDS, RAINBOWS, & GRAYLING
MONTANA CREEK: Very good rainbow trout fishing in sections upstream of the highway to headwaters with a fair number of grayling mixed in. Kings are starting to spawn so match the hatch. At the mouth of the stream, chum salmon are moving through in small numbers; good time to hook chrome specimens. A few pinks and silvers are also making an appearance. Be on the water early for best fishing. Good burbot fishing at Susitna confluence at night.
SHEEP CREEK: Fair to good fishing for chums at Susitna confluence with a smaller presence of fish upstream to highway bridge. Some pinks and a few silvers are being caught as well. For good rainbow trout and grayling fishing, scout middle and upper river sections where the kings are currently starting to spawn.
LITTLE WILLOW CREEK: Best salmon fishing is at mouth (mainly chums) but a number of fish are also up around the highway crossing. Not many pinks yet and only a few silvers showing up at this point in the season. Most productive fishing yet is for rainbows and grayling in middle and upper portions of the stream.
WILLOW CREEK: Sizable showing of chums with decent opportunities for chrome specimens. Also pinks and some silvers being caught and these two species are becoming more numerous by the day; for the latter, go early in the morning using salmon roe. Small number of salmon have made it up to the highway bridge and beyond yet but the opportunity is there; in these areas, rainbow trout and grayling are the better performers.
RABIDEUX, SUNSHINE, CASWELL CREEKS: Also here chums dominate but not in abundance quite yet; some pinks and few early silvers moving through Try at first light when fish have had the chance to school up largely undisturbed after the night. Night fishing for burbot ranges from fair to very good.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: Excellent action for chum salmon around the lower access point and pinks and silvers are building in numbers with fair catches reported; an occasional red salmon present. In the Houston area, salmon fishing is slow as of yet but a few chums are moving through alongside spawning kings.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Weekend-only fishery; mainly good fishing for reds but a few very early silvers are showing up too. Try fishing according to the tides. Rainbow trout action is fair to good in upper reaches of the stream.
KLUTINA RIVER: As debris and excess turbidity from the upstream mudslide is clearing, anglers are finding some very good fishing for red salmon. Limits are being achieved and the action is expected to last through next week. King salmon fishing is also picking up and the catching is fair to good and should peak within the next week to ten days.
GULKANA RIVER: Red salmon fishing is fair to very good, best between highway bridge and the forks. Water conditions are perfect. Rainbow trout and grayling are providing lots of action on the stretch of water between forks and Paxson Lake outlet. King salmon season has ended.
PORT VALDEZ: The long-awaited run of pink salmon has arrived and fishing is good to excellent, particularly in waters around Allison Point and near the mouth of Solomon Gulch Creek at the fish hatchery. The incoming and high tides are producing the most fish with limits of 6 very possible. A few chums are present.
SHIP CREEK: Fair to good opportunities for silver salmon on incoming and high tides; pinks and a few chums are showing as well. Use eggs and spinners for the silvers, spoons and jigs for the other species. The king salmon season has ended here.
BIRD CREEK: Numbers of salmon are in the process of building with mostly pinks and some chums being caught along with a few silvers. Overall, the fishing is quite good, especially on incoming and outgoing tides; low tide can be exceptional if skilled at sight fishing.
RESURRECTION CREEK: Good to excellent action for pink salmon with fair opportunities also on hand for chums; sight fishing is best. Incoming and outgoing tides are delivering very good action too; use spoons, float jigs, and cast flies. An occasional early silver salmon has also been caught.
SIXMILE CREEK: Good fishing for chum salmon and fair catches of pinks in lower stream near tidewater. A few early silvers are present. Dolly Varden opportunities available throughout drainage; expect fair catches.
RESURRECTION BAY: Fair to good snagging for chum salmon at mouth of Spring Creek; a few reds persist still. Nicer reds along with an occasional bright king may be caught at mouth of Scheffler Creek near boat harbor. Tonsina Creek is picking up for pinks and chums as these runs are in the process of building. No reports of silvers off the beach yet. Surf-casting for bottomfish is good.
KENAI RIVER: Red salmon are beginning to appear in greater numbers depending on the tide and limits are possible with some effort; best fishing is between Sterling and tidewater. Expect big push of fish to occur anytime from this weekend on through next week. Fishing for reds on the upper river near Cooper Landing is slow. King salmon fishing on the lower river is also slow but improving. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden opportunities are good to excellent on the middle and upper river.
KASILOF RIVER: Fishing for kings has been poor but should pick up a bit this next week as the run nears a peak. Better bet is targeting red salmon, of which success is ranging from fair to excellent last few days depending on tide; this weekend and the following ten days should see great opportunities.
DUDIAK LAGOON: One of the best bets for silvers in the region, with limits (6) possible on the tides using salmon roe. Depending on the day, tide, and weather, success ranges from fair to excellent. A few fresh kings continue to arrive on the tides as well but catches are mainly incidental to targeting silvers.
Updated July 12, 2018
Weekly Summary: The typical mid-season lull in Southcentral angling opportunities is coming to an end as salmon of all species are showing up in roadside waters and the streams previously closed to fishing due to poor king returns are scheduled to open to other species over the next few days. Pink and chum salmon as well as late-run kings and reds are infiltrating streams in numbers and there are even reports of multiple silver salmon being caught, giving anglers in the region ample choices in where to go this weekend and next week. While these runs are not at a peak yet, it is only a matter of days in some instances for excellent fishing to occur; right now, however, expect fair or mediocre success. Additionally, trout, char, grayling, and pike action is very good to exceptional in many waters, from coastal streams to highland lakes. The coastal marine fisheries are also improving as great schools of salmon are beginning to congregate at the head of bays and along exposed beaches, and bottomfish such as halibut are becoming frequent catches in some locations.
Weekend Hot Spots: BIRD CREEK PINKS & CHUMS; RESURRECTION CREEK PINKS; GULKANA RIVER KINGS, RAINBOWS, & GRAYLING; KASILOF RIVER REDS, KENAI RIVER REDS & RAINBOWS
SUSITNA RIVER: While recent rains brought stream levels up, they are now dropping back down to more seasonal norms, handing anglers decent opportunities for trout and grayling in a dozen locations, including the Chulitna drainage. But there are also salmon starting to arrive in the lower tributaries, such as Willow, Little Willow, Caswell, Sheep, Goose, and Montana creeks. Primarily chums at this point but a few pinks and even early silvers should be in the mix, particularly at Willow Creek; expect fair catches. King salmon are present in all of these waters but fishing for them is prohibited. For a change of pace, try soaking bait for burbot in slackwater areas at the mouths of streams, such as Rabideux, Montana, and Caswell; the bite is best at night and can be hot at times.
COTTONWOOD CREEK: Red salmon are making a decent showing in the tidewater of this valley stream. Open only on the weekends, anglers should target these fish in early morning or on incoming and outgoing tides. A few Dolly Varden are generally also present and do not be surprised to see an early silver here as well.
LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER: Marred by fluctuating stream conditions and muddy water so far this year, as long as rains hold up the river will be perfect for catching fish, especially on the lower section. Chum salmon are the most common species at the moment and fishing for them is fair and getting better by the day. There are also small numbers of reds available and the first few pinks and silvers should arrive shortly, probably sometime this weekend. King salmon fishing is closed for the season.
SHIP CREEK: This downtown location will open to all fishing (except kings) this Sunday morning, July 15, and the total lack of angling pressure last couple of weeks and buildup of fish should provide for some decent success. Pinks are present and there are undoubtedly a few silvers and chums cruising in on the tides too. Overall, expect fair catches. Try the incoming and outgoing tides. King salmon fishing is closed for the season.
BIRD CREEK: Like several other area waters, this weekend (Saturday, July 14) marks the opener for fishing and anglers will find decent numbers of pink salmon along with some larger chums. A few silvers should be available and if on the water on the first tide of the opener, chances are quite good of finding one or two of them. Sea-run Dolly Varden are available also. A few kings run this stream but fishing for them is prohibited.
RESURRECTION CREEK: Perhaps the best location to find pinks this weekend, anglers can expect success ranging from fair to very good. Sight-fishing for them is usually best and limits possible but fish are also caught on the incoming and outgoing tides. Chums are also arriving, in lesser numbers. Dolly Varden action is good on the tides as well.
RESURRECTION BAY: The early run of reds are almost done for but some stragglers are being picked up, primarily at the mouth of Spring Creek off Nash Road where fishing is also good for chums. The king run is near completion with occasional catches around Scheffler Creek near the boat harbor. Check out the mouth of Tonsina Creek if in the area; a few pinks, chums, and Dolly Varden are available. Surf-casting for bottomfish is fair to good.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: With the early run of Russian reds just about finished, late-run fish destined for Kenai Lake tributaries are moving upstream in small numbers; expect poor fishing right now as the run is building. Better option is to target rainbows and Dollies for fair to good success, although the river is quite high and anglers must search for productive spots.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Extremely high and turbid water conditions has anglers at a disadvantage but some reds are being caught. While the king fishing is blown out for the next few days until the river clears, flipping for reds should only get better as the late run continues to build. The river should see a sizable push of salmon perhaps as early as this weekend but certainly by next week. The early run of pinks is arriving and may be successfully targeted at or near the mouths of clearwater tributaries. Given the current conditions, trout and char fishing is most productive in the stretch of river upstream of Killey River to Skilak Lake outlet; fair to good catches being had.
KASILOF RIVER: Depending on the individual tide, red salmon anglers here are doing reasonably well with limit catches possible at times. While the run is still building, try and time trips on the water that do not coincide with commercial openers. A few blush, remnant kings are still holding from the early run into Crooked Creek but some chrome late-run fish are entering the river. A few pinks and Dolly Varden are present.
ANCHOR & NINILCHIK RIVERS, DEEP & STARISKI CREEKS: These waters open to fishing on Monday, July 16, and a number of pink salmon and Dolly Varden will be available. Expect fair catches at best for salmon, good for the sea-run char. King salmon fishing is closed for the season, except on the Ninilchik River where hatchery kings may be retained through October 31. All wild kings must be released.
KACHEMAK BAY: Surf-casting for bottomfish is good in the bay along the spit and pinks may be targeted with fair success as well. Most of the jumpers observed are red salmon but there could be a few early silvers in the mix. The Dudiak Lagoon is still producing a few nice kings, although this run is almost finished; anglers are now aiming for silvers which are arriving in small numbers. Try the incoming and outgoing tides.
GULKANA RIVER: Fair to good king salmon fishing available when water is clear. The Sourdough area is generally best but fish may be caught anywhere from the forks downstream to the river mouth. This is the week to go as the king season ends on Thursday, July 19. Anglers may again fish for red salmon starting Friday, July 13, but fishing for them is expected to be poor to fair at best. Trout and grayling fishing is great between the forks and the Paxson Lake outlet.
KLUTINA RIVER: Red salmon fishing opens here on Friday, July 13, but success may be variable as most of the early run has passed through the lower river already. Late-run fish destined for other parts of the drainage as well as upstream areas on the Copper River will be available around Copper Center. King salmon fishing has been fair recently with a decent showing of fish coming in; this run will peak in about ten days.
PORT VALDEZ: Pink salmon are arriving in small numbers and fishing for them is slow to fair right now with sporadic decent catches, although the run seems a bit late from normal. Anglers having the best success are finding schools of pinks at the mouth of Solomon Gulch Creek near the hatchery; incoming and outgoing tides is the prime time. Fishing elsewhere around Valdez is poor for pinks. Expect next week to change as the bulk of the run should arrive, bringing much improved fishing. A few pinks and char are also moving into the Robe River.
Updated July 5, 2018
Weekly Summary: As mid-season salmon runs are in the early stages of development throughout Southcentral, anglers are experiencing a slight lull in action these days. Late-run red salmon to the Kenai and Kasilof rivers are picking up steam by the day but not yet to the point of being the frenzy known for and pink and chum salmon are still only trickling into area streams. Resident species, however, such as rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, and grayling are a much better option if looking for a fishing trip with lots of action, with the lakes and streams of the Matanuska-Susitna Valleys, Kenai Peninsula, and Copper Valley providing plenty of opportunities to accommodate. In the marine fisheries, things are a bit slow as well for shore-bound anglers, especially concerning salmon, yet it will not be long before waters are teeming with multiple salmon species, including silvers. Expect halibut to be present in fishable numbers along Cook Inlet beaches this month as well.
Weekend Hot Spots: KASILOF RIVER REDS, RUSSIAN RIVER REDS, SUSITNA RIVER RAINBOWS & GRAYLING, GULKANA RIVER RAINBOWS & GRAYLING
SUSITNA RIVER: With warm and dry conditions lately, the tributaries of Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, and Montana creeks are running low and clear and providing good to excellent fishing for rainbow trout and grayling. The middle and upper sections of these streams support the best opportunities using forage imitation flies and lures, but egg imitations should do well shortly as king salmon begin spawning. The clearwater tributaries of the Chulitna should not be overlooked either, primarily Byers, Honolulu, and the East and Middle forks of the Chulitna. While very early in the season, a few chum and pink salmon may be present, primarily at the mouths of lower Susitna drainages.
RESURRECTION CREEK: Sea-run Dolly Varden abound here on the high tide cycles and fishing for them can be very good at times using juvenile salmon imitation flies and lures. Also, a few pink salmon are now confirmed to have arrived; expect poor to fair success this weekend as the run builds. By next week, action could possibly be quite good with a few chums in the mix too.
TURNAGAIN ARM STREAMS: Most any stream flowing into the arm offers some decent catches of sea-run char right now, particularly Indian, Kern, Portage, and Ingram creeks which all support fair to good fishing using salmon eggs, flies, and small lures. A few pinks are showing up in these locations. Bird Creek is currently closed to fishing but will open on July 14.
RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers looking for salmon are having to work for them now but some fish may be found yet. Fair success is being had at the mouth of Spring Creek for reds and chums on incoming tides. The mouth of Scheffler Creek in town also has a small showing of reds along with kings. These two locations are mainly snag fisheries but some luck can be had using flies and lures. Dolly Varden fishing is fair, mainly at the mouths of clearwater streams; Tonsina Creek is a favorite spot for sea-run char and a few pinks and chums may be available too. Surf-casting for bottomfish is fair to good.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Fair to good action here for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden, mainly from the Russian River area downstream to Skilak Lake. The area of water downstream of the Russian confluence may also hold some fair opportunities for early-run red salmon; however, anglers should start seeing reds bound for other parts of the drainage begin arriving by this weekend and especially next week.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Limits of red salmon are possible here still, although the run is waning. Scout the lower river at dawn for schools of salmon or hit the confluence area which will have fair action throughout the day. Rainbow trout fishing is only fair; search lower river at dawn and dusk, the section up towards the falls and the upper river between the lakes can be especially productive now that salmon have arrived and spawning will begin in not too long.
KASILOF RIVER: Quite solid numbers of red salmon have entered the river the last few days, prompting anglers to score well using flies. Limit catches are possible with the best fishing occurring at peak high tide and/or the following hour or two; the Crooked Creek area is a favorite location to target these fish. King salmon are available and both hatchery and wild fish may be retained; the channel by the island below the campground is producing a few catches.
GULKANA RIVER: The lower and middle river is dropping and clearing after rains last week, showing a small number of king salmon. Anglers are doing fair with some decent fish landed on some holes. Red salmon, however, are still off limits by emergency order. Grayling and rainbow trout are good to excellent in stretch of river from forks upstream to Paxson Lake outlet; the outlet of the lake is also a great spot to hook into lake trout this time of year.
Updated June 28, 2018
Weekly Summary: Entering a relatively quiet phase of the fishing season in Southcentral until the mid-summer salmon runs arrive in force, anglers can expect less good spots available but there are at least a few solid options this week. The remnant of the early runs of king salmon are still there, such as Ship Creek, Kasilof River, and Gulkana River, but the late-run fisheries of Kenai, Klutina, and Tonsina are about to begin with openers on July 1. While the Kenai king run is very much an unknown at this time, the Copper Valley runs may be the best bets soon. The early runs of red salmon are generally on the downhill side but still holding some very decent opportunities in places, most notably the Russian and upper Kenai rivers. However, with most anglers moving their interest away from kings and on to other species, like late-run reds and trout, there are now also reports of pinks and chums showing up in roadside waters. Until these species appear in fishable numbers, resident fish like rainbows, grayling, and Dolly Varden are plentiful and aggressive in area streams and lakes.
Weekend Hot Spots: RUSSIAN RIVER REDS, UPPER KENAI RIVER REDS, SUSITNA RIVER RAINBOWS, GULKANA RIVER RAINBOWS & GRAYLING
SUSITNA RIVER: Clearwater tributaries are looking to be in much greater shape this coming week compared to most of the spring and summer season thus far, revealing good to excellent rainbow trout and grayling action. The middle and upper stretches of Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, Goose, and Montana creeks are turning on in earnest with fish falling to an assortment of forage flies and lures. Additionally, it is worth checking out a couple of streams in the Chulitna area as well, such as Byers and Honolulu creeks and East and Middle forks of Chulitna River. King salmon fishing is closed in all waters within the Susitna River drainage, including locations listed above.
SHIP CREEK: King salmon fishing here is mediocre at best, usually, with some nice catches accomplished on the tides. While most fish are starting to turn there are a few chrome kings still coming in. Drifting salmon roe and casting spinners is best; however, some anglers also do well on outgoing and low tides using yarn flies. Although not confirmed yet, a few pink salmon should now be present. Expect the first silver any day starting this weekend. Update: By emergency order, Ship Creek will close to all fishing on July 3 but scheduled to reopen on July 14 for all species (except king salmon).
RESURRECTION CREEK: This small clearwater stream in Hope is currently providing some good fishing for sea-run Dolly Varden. Stay in tidewater and use small flies and lures imitating juvenile salmon. The incoming and high tide stages are most productive. A few pink salmon should be present now.
TURNAGAIN ARM STREAMS: Most any clearwater creek flowing into the arm will offer some decent catches of sea-run char this time of year, especially if trying luck on the tides. Indian, Glacier, Kern, Portage, and Ingram creeks all support fair to good opportunities using salmon eggs, flies, and small lures. There could be a few pinks showing up in these locations too. Bird Creek is currently closed to fishing but will open on July 14.
RESURRECTION BAY: The red salmon run to Resurrection River is winding down for the year but may still provide marginal opportunities for the next week to ten days; the mouth of Spring Creek off Nash Road still provides some fair catches with the addition of a few chums. Snagging is the most common harvest method. Chrome king and red salmon are being caught in small numbers at the mouth of Scheffler Creek along the Seward waterfront, again primarily by snagging. Dolly Varden action is fair at the mouth of Spruce and Tonsina creeks on the west side of the bay and there could be appearances of king, red, and pink salmon in these locations also. Surf-casting for codfish and flounder and other bottomfish is generally good; use bits or chunks of herring as bait.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Fishing for red salmon and rainbow trout has picked up as water has dropped and started to clear from the flood event ten days ago. If targeting salmon, the braids on up to the Russian River confluence is best with limits being achieved with some effort. This should be the last week of good fishing on the early run. Trout and char are striking forage flies but may go for beads and flesh as well.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Anglers hitting the water at dawn are walking away with reasonably easy limits of red salmon in the middle and lower river sections; come mid-day, try the mouth of the river. Water levels continue to drop and clarity is good enough to sightfish. Action for rainbow trout is quite good along with a few Dolly Varden; use forage or even dry flies. Expect the salmon run to continue to be productive for another ten days based on number of salmon still moving through the upper Kenai.
KASILOF RIVER: Red salmon opportunities are largely hit or miss here but can be very good on some tides, usually coinciding with limited commercial fishing activity near the mouth of the river. This run will only improve as the late component of fish arrive in force later on in July. Hatchery kings are allowed here and as of this Sunday, July 1, anglers are allowed to harvest wild kings as well. However, fishing for kings has and continues to be slow with moments of flurry, particularly in the channel right below the campground.
KACHEMAK BAY: Surf-casting for flounder and codfish is fair to excellent off the end of the Homer Spit using pieces of herring and small jigs. Red salmon are beginning to show along the beaches of the bay with a few pinks in the mix. Sea-run char are providing fair sport; use flies and lures imitating juvenile salmon. The Dudiak Lagoon still has small numbers of king salmon present; try for them on incoming and outgoing tides.
GULKANA RIVER: Being largely plagued by high and muddy water from frequent heavy rainfall in the area, anglers here are finding the best fishing in the upper-middle section of water from Paxson Lake downstream to the West Fork confluence where the river tends to run clear. Very good rainbow trout and grayling fishing is now available; lake trout are active at the outlet of Paxson Lake right now. As water begins to clear this coming week barring any downpours, expect fair king salmon fishing in the Sourdough area. A reminder: The river is closed to red salmon fishing until further notice.
Updated June 22, 2018
Weekly Summary: As additional closures and restrictions have been placed on the region’s king salmon runs this season, anglers have seen their opportunities mainly focused on locations with hatchery fish and red salmon, the latter of which has produced some very good catches in a few locations the last couple of weeks. But success can still be had for kings with quite decent action at the right place and time, mainly at Ship Creek in Anchorage, Kasilof River south of Soldotna, the Dudiak Lagoon in Homer, and from the beach at the head of Resurrection Bay in Seward. While a fast and furious bite is unlikely, some nice fish are being caught with regularity and worth an attempt. As for red salmon, the middle and upper sections of the Kenai River and the mouth of Resurrection River are yielding limits to persistent anglers, and the Russian River will be a good spot to be as flood water recede and clear up. An increasing number of salmon are also moving up the Kasilof, giving a mixed opportunity for kings and reds both. And as mid-summer approaches, there are now also reports of other species beginning to show in the marine waters around Southcentral, including pinks and chums; roadside anglers may see a few of these at the ports of Whittier, Seward, and Valdez and it is just a matter of days before certain streams see the first fish of the year as well.
Weekend Hot Spots: RUSSIAN RIVER RED SALMON, KENAI RIVER RED SALMON, RESURRECTION RIVER RED SALMON
SUSITNA RIVER: As water conditions improve after a long stretch of high and muddy water, anglers will find some good to excellent opportunities for mainly rainbow trout and grayling along with a few Dolly Varden starting as soon as this weekend and for sure next week. Montana, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow are all proven locations this time of year. Successful anglers can expect to move around in their search with the middle and upper stream sections being best. King salmon fishing is closed in all waters within the Susitna River drainage, including locations listed previously.
SHIP CREEK: Some surprisingly decent fishing for kings can be had here following the period of high and muddy water just experienced, with anglers doing best casting large spinners and floating salmon roe. The slack water of the incoming, high, and outgoing tides are the peak times to catch these fish with good action possible.
RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers scouting the waterfront at the head of the bay in Seward are doing quite well on king salmon using spinners, salmon eggs, and snag hooks. While snagging is the predominant method at the hatchery release site of Scheffler Creek, entrepreneurial individuals wanting a true bite are advised to check out the mouths of clearwater streams draining into the bay as hatchery fish often swing by these locations on their way to the release site. Dolly Varden present fair to good fishing off Lowell Point and Tonsina Creek. Surf-casters may find good success casting bait and jigs for bottomfish. Red salmon are being taken by snagging at the mouth of Spring Creek off Nash Road with good catches on some tides; a few chums are showing up too.
RESURRECTION RIVER: With the limit upped to 12 red salmon and the commercial fishing fleet active, anglers are having to work harder for their fill of fish now. Some tides produce a good shot of salmon, other times things are more quiet. This run has peaked but should continue to yield nice catches for at least another week or so. This is mainly a snag fishery but reds may also be caught on sport gear in spots with sufficient current.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Fishing on this stretch of river has been tough the last several days with water conditions being very high and turbid, but things are looking better for the weekend and next week as water levels drop and visibility improves. Red salmon are streaming through and anglers should have a decent shot at getting fish from the mouth of Russian River downstream to Skilak Lake. Those familiar with structure and locations pertaining to red fishing may be able to limit out; persistence is the key to success but move around until salmon are found. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are present with fair catches at this time.
RUSSIAN RIVER: Along with many other waters on the peninsula, the Russian is coming out from a period of very high and silty water conditions due to heavy rains. However, solid fishing may still be found and some individuals are limiting out. As the water drops and clears the next several days, expect success to pick up considerably with excellent catches possible. As a reminder, the sanctuary area of the Russian is open to fishing by emergency order as the early red run is doing very well. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are being caught in decent numbers throughout the river.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Early-run red salmon are still moving into the river from Cook Inlet but in reduced numbers; the best fishing can be had on the middle river section upstream of Sterling. Try Bing’s Landing. Fair to good action for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden is also possible, mainly in the middle section up to Skilak Lake outlet. The Kenai is closed to king salmon fishing until July. Surf-casting for skate, shark, and an occasional halibut can be enjoyed on high tides off the river mouth.
KASILOF RIVER: Red salmon fishing was off to a slow but somewhat steady start this year but is showing definite signs of improving as recent tides are bringing in a substantial increase in numbers of fish. Fishing is fair on some tides and expected to produce good catches within days. Anglers targeting hatchery kings are having some luck, particularly in the channel at the mouth of Crooked Creek at dawn and downstream below the People Hole during and immediately following high tides. As a note, all wild kings must be released.
DUDIAK LAGOON: Casting spinners and floating salmon roe is responsible for a decent number of kings in this location. Try incoming and outgoing tides. While the run here is mall this year as elsewhere, experienced anglers are getting fish on a consistent basis. A portion of the run is starting to blush but chrome salmon are still available.
GULKANA RIVER: Heavy rainfall in the region created high and muddy conditions the last week or so but water levels are dropping and clarity improving quickly. King salmon are present in decent numbers and anglers should experience some fair or better success this weekend and through next week barring more rain. The section between Richardson Highway up to and beyond Sourdough should yield the best opportunity. A reminder: The river is closed to red salmon fishing until further notice.
Updated June 13, 2018
Weekly Summary: With king salmon runs faltering across the region and new restrictions in place on remaining waters still open to king fishing, anglers are fortunate to have other solid options presented to them as red salmon returns to some locations are strong. Good to excellent opportunities are currently to be had at the mouth of Resurrection River in Seward, especially, and in portions of the Kenai and Russian rivers on the peninsula. The Kasilof River south of Soldotna is gradually picking up steam as well and the first few reds of the season are being caught on the Klutina River in Copper Valley. But for anglers still wanting to catch a king salmon, there remains a few decent chances still. Ship Creek in downtown Anchorage is yielding fish as is the Eklutna Tailrace near Palmer, and the lagoon on the Homer Spit and the waterfront in Seward are another couple of locations producing a small but steady supply of kings. While the Kenai River is still open to fishing for king salmon, it is now under a catch-and-release policy until the late run arrives. Trout and grayling fishing has been improving in many areas although heavy rain and/or snowmelt has kept anglers at bay on some waters, particularly in the Susitna River drainage, central Kenai Peninsula, and parts of Copper Valley. As for other species, it appears the late spring/early summer halibut fishery off the mouths of Kenai and Kasilof has slowed considerably for the season but anglers will be able to hit these flatfish regularly casting from the beaches of Ninilchik and surrounding areas starting in July; in the meantime, catches of spiny dogfish and skate are increasing. The hooligan dip net fisheries will close in all freshwaters on Friday, June 15, by regulation but the runs in Southcentral have for all practical purposes ended already.
Weekend Hot Spots: RESURRECTION RIVER RED SALMON, RUSSIAN RIVER RED SALMON, KENAI RIVER RED SALMON
EKLUTNA TAILRACE: Off to a slow start this season, kings are finally showing up in numbers at the road crossing with the early morning bite being fair. Use salmon roe either fished on the bottom or with a bobber. Anglers have been taking salmon from boats at the mouth of the tailrace where it enters the Knik River for a few weeks already, but this fishery is ending as high water in the area is changing the conditions.
SHIP CREEK: While the last few days have been very slow for kings here due to high and muddy water from heavy rainfall up in the Chugach Mountains, king salmon are present and will yield fair opportunities once the water begins to clear up. Taking latest weather predictions into account, Ship will be back in good shape sometime mid next week. Salmon roe and spinners are best on tides, drifting flies through holes and runs after tide goes out and on low tide.
RESURRECTION BAY: Historically, the third week of June is the best time to target king salmon from the beaches around Seward with the waterfront near the boat harbor at the mouth of Scheffler Creek being the best bet. Successful anglers have been using the snagging method while some fish are also being caught on salmon roe and large spinners. To get away from the snag scene, scout the mouths of clearwater streams around the bay for biters; expect slow to fair catch rates. Red salmon are also being caught in numbers at the mouth of Spring Creek, where chum salmon should make an appearance soon as well. Dolly Varden are being caught in fair to good numbers off Lowell Point and the mouth of Tonsina Creek. Fishing for bottomfish near shore is quite good using bait.
RESURRECTION RIVER: Anglers here are experiencing a huge return of red salmon and the fishing has been consistently excellent much of this past week and should hold strong for at least another week if not more. Six-fish limits are very common. Try snagging at the mouth of the river on an incoming and high tide. There are still a few hooligan available to dip net in upstream areas as well as Salmon Creek but this personal use fishery ends this coming Friday, June 15. Update: By emergency order, the bag/possession limit for red salmon is increased from 6 to 12 at the mouth of the river starting June 15, and upstream areas from 3 to 6 fish starting June 16.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: With a less than stellar start to the season last Monday, catches of red salmon is beginning to pick up as the vanguard of the early run is starting to arrive. Some anglers are scoring limits in the section of water from Russian River downstream to Skilak Lake with the run expected to peak by next week. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are also present with fishing ranging from fair to good with some very impressive success being had on cloudy or rainy days.
RUSSIAN RIVER: While the opening day produced some fairly decent fishing, reds are now stacking up in the sanctuary waiting to make their move up into the clear Russian. And with clouds and rain coming through the area the next few days, anglers fishing the lower river should enjoy some excellent catches, especially in the early morning. It is important to be on the water at dawn in this fishery, this being crucial during bright and sunny days. Rainbow trout fishing is fair.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Early-run red salmon are cruising through in fair numbers and anglers are experiencing spotty to very good action depending on exact location and skill level. The Bing’s Landing area in Sterling has always been a relative hot spot for early reds but productive fishing can be had most anywhere along the river from Soldotna upstream to near Skilak Lake as long as there is sufficient current flow and depth. This is likely the last weekend for this run until the late run arrives next month. King salmon fishing is currently poor to fair and under a catch-and-release emergency order policy. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden fishing is fair to good.
KASILOF RIVER: Red salmon are gaining in numbers here with successful anglers timing their search by the tides. Limits are possible but most walk away with one fish, sometimes two or even none. This is a good time to begin targeting these fish leading up to the commercial fishery opening on the 25th later this month, when action drops considerably until larger returns show in mid-July. King salmon fishing is slow to fair here and only hatchery kings may be kept by emergency order; try fishing for them at peak high tide and the following couple of hours. Additionally, only unbaited, single hooks may be used.
DUDIAK LAGOON: The early morning tides here are producing catches of king salmon and the bite is fair using salmon eggs and spinners. Try fishing the currents inside the lagoon as the tide comes in, then move to the mouth of the stream emptying the lagoon as the tide goes back out. Expect very slow fishing during the day unless the weather cooperates by bringing rain and clouds. A few Dolly Varden are also present.
COPPER RIVER: Rivers and streams in this region are running largely high and muddy from recent heavy rains and even from late snowmelt. Some streams, especially those that are lake-influenced, yield good grayling action right now. Give Mendeltna, Cache, Tolsona, Tulsona, Indian, and Sourdough a try. Rainbow trout provide good to excellent opportunities in lakes. The first few red salmon of the season have been caught on the Klutina River and are expected any day on the Gulkana as soon as water levels drop and clear a bit. Update: By emergency order, the Copper River drainage will close to red salmon fishing on June 18.
Updated June 7, 2018
Weekly Summary: The trend of slow king salmon fishing continues to a large extent in roadside rivers and streams around Southcentral Alaska, more than likely bringing the realization to the forefront that runs are not just late this year but also very weak and unfortunately far below the 10-year average. However, despite the total closures of lower peninsula stream to fishing, there remains some decent opportunities still, primarily in waters where hatchery runs either dominate the fishery or bolster natural runs. Kasilof River, Little Susitna River, Ship Creek, the Dudiak Lagoon in Homer, and Seward/Resurrection Bay are all producing catches of nice fish, albeit not at the fast clip anglers may be accustomed to in the past. But the opportunities are there. Additionally, early-run red salmon are entering streams in greater numbers and beginning to overtake the king runs and thus becoming a solid alternative for sport and food on the table. The Kenai and Kasilof rivers as well as Resurrection River in Seward are well worth the time with limits possible. The Upper Kenai and Russian rivers also opens to fishing on Monday, June 11, and reds are present as well as rainbow trout. For those seeking other game species, rainbows and grayling are yielding very good action in some locations, especially the Matanuska-Susitna Valleys and Copper Valley. This weekend and into next week might show some good halibut catches off Kenai Beach. While hooligan dip netting is closed in all saltwater areas now, it still remains a fair option in the 20-Mile River in Turnagain Arm and in Resurrection River and Salmon Creek in Seward.
SUSITNA RIVER: Water conditions are beginning to stabilize in roadside streams in this area, offering fair to good fishing for grayling and rainbow trout. Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, and Montana creeks are all fishable as is the Kashwitna River. While not quite low and clear yet, there is some stream volume still and a slight degree of turbidity. Flies and lures promoting flash and visibility may do well; focus on areas upstream of the road crossings for best results. Note: King salmon fishing in roadside waters of the Susitna River drainage is closed this year, including catch-and-release.
20-MILE RIVER: Dip netting for hooligan is fair with some good numbers on certain tides. If tidewater does not produce results, head upstream to pools and sloughs where fish concentrations may be found. Expect decent catches to be had up until the season closure on June 15. Note: The hooligan season in Turnagain Arm saltwater closed June 1.
RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers targeting king salmon are finding fish at the mouth of Scheffler Creek in front of town as well as beaches south along the bay. Catches have been fair at best with success being had on herring and roe as well as large spinners. Snagging is a productive means of getting fish at the hatchery release site. Dolly Varden action is fair to good at the mouths of clearwater streams throughout the area, in particular Tonsina Creek, but Lowell Point Beach is a decent spot too. Surf-casters are also connecting with a variety of bottomfish like flounder, greenling, and codfish using small jigs and pieces of herring as bait.
RESURRECTION RIVER: The mouth of this glacial river has turned on for red salmon and some tides are yielding easy 6-fish limits for quite a few anglers. While success varies with each tide as can be expected in any fishery, in general this location is one of the top performing hot spots for salmon in all of Southcentral. Snagging is the rule of harvest here. Apart from salmon, there are still decent numbers of hooligan to be had and dip netters are finding fish near the road crossings as well as in Salmon Creek off Nash Road.
UPPER KENAI RIVER: Opens to fishing this coming Monday, June 11. Red salmon are arriving but numbers are not large as of yet. Expect fair opportunities with good catches in some spots. Rainbow trout fishing will be good on opening day and dipping to fair for the rest of the month until July; experienced anglers will have no problem getting worthwhile action. Water conditions are normal for this time of year with water being greenish-clear and in good shape for connecting with salmon and trout.
LOWER KENAI RIVER: Early-run red salmon are arriving in decent numbers and some fish are being caught in locations around Soldotna and Sterling; good catches are possible at times. King salmon fishing is generally poor to fair from boat, very slow from shore. The upper portions of this river section, near Skilak Lake, opens to fishing on Monday, June 11, and success for rainbow trout will likely be quite good. The hooligan run is just about done for the season; the river closes to dip netting on June 15. Halibut fishing could be good this weekend off the mouth of the river.
KASILOF RIVER: One of the highlights on the peninsula for shore-bound anglers targeting king salmon. Although catch rates are fair at best, the opportunity is there and the fishing will gradually improve for another week to ten days still. Most of the kings being caught are hatchery fish, of which 2 kings are allowed per day. Wild fish are only allowed to be harvested on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Red salmon present fair to good fishing, the best of it occurring after high tide and for the next two hours; some limits being taken. A trickle of steelhead trout continues to move up the river.
HOMER SPIT/DUDIAK LAGOON: King salmon fishing is fair on incoming and outgoing tides in the lagoon with anglers scoring using eggs, herring, and spinners. The very early morning tides should produce the best catches this weekend as the weather is expected to be sunny and the afternoon tides slow. Surf-casters are doing well on a variety of bottomfish using small jigs and pieces of herring or squid; flounder, sculpin, and codfish are most abundant and provide excellent action at times. Sea-run Dolly Varden are active along the beaches of the spit and can be caught on flies and small spoons and jigs resembling baitfish and juvenile salmon.
COPPER RIVER: Waters in this region are generally high and turbid still from late snowmelt as well as recent heavy rains. However, fair to excellent grayling fishing can be found in smaller streams, such as Gunsight, Cache, Mendeltna, Haggard, Sourdough, and Gunn creeks. Rainbow trout provide good to excellent opportunities in lakes. Salmon catches are expected any day now at Gulkana and Klutina rivers.
Updated May 31, 2018
Weekly Summary: Following the emergency order to close all southern Kenai Peninsula streams to fishing in order to conserve the king salmon runs that have been very weak so far this year, anglers will be looking to finding alternatives in which to find salmon. While good king action is not expected anywhere on the road system this weekend, there is still some decent opportunities, particularly south of Anchorage on the Kenai Peninsula. The Kenai and Kasilof rivers are still open to king salmon fishing and catches are being made, as well as in the lagoon in Homer. Seward is seeing a few kings arrive too along the beaches in front of town. For many anglers, Ship Creek will be a good option, although the king run is slow there also. However, red salmon are making an appearance in a few select water in the region, mainly in Resurrection River in Seward and the lower Kenai and Kasilof rivers. Kings remain on the slow side on the Little Susitna River and anglers are reminded that all of the roadside streams in Susitna Valley are closed to king fishing this year; the Eklutna Tailrace south of Palmer is still open but fish have yet to make an appearance. As long as the weather is not too sunny, surf-casting for halibut in Cook Inlet is a good opportunity. Hooligan dip netting is beginning to slow down for the year in most areas, except in Resurrection River and Salmon Creek in Seward where the runs are now beginning to peak. Small clearwater streams in the Susitna and Copper valleys are yielding decent action for trout and grayling.
SUSITNA RIVER: Mediocre to good angling for rainbow trout and grayling may be had in several clearwater tributaries, most notably the Willow, Little Willow, and Montana creeks. These waters are still going through the spring meltwater cycle and fishing can vary considerably day-to-day. Best success is being had in the middle and upper portions of these waters. Expect a few Dolly Varden to be present as well. As a reminder, king salmon fishing in roadside waters of the Susitna River drainage is closed this year. Update: Montana Creek is under flood advisory until Saturday (6/2) afternoon.
TURNAGAIN ARM/20-MILE RIVER: Dip netting for hooligan is closed in the salt water areas of Turnagain Arm as of Friday, June 1, but continues to be a quite solid option in the 20-Mile River. Fair to good catches are still being made even though the run is winding down for the season. Dolly Varden are available in fair numbers at the mouth of clearwater streams draining into the arm; fish the tides.
RESURRECTION BAY: Try smolt and fry imitation flies and lures at the mouths of clearwater streams to find good Dolly Varden action. Lowell Point and Tonsina Creek are the best options. Anglers surf-casting for bottomfish are finding a variety of species, including flounder, cod, and greenling; use small pieces of herring as bait. King salmon are available but fishing for them has been spotty at best thus far this season. Red salmon are also present.
RESURRECTION RIVER: This glacial river in Seward is currently experiencing a healthy return of hooligan and dip netting for them is reportedly very good. Try different sections of water from the highway crossing down to tidewater. Salmon Creek is also seeing productive dip netting for hooligan. As for salmon, anglers are snagging a number of reds at the mouth of the river but the main brunt of fish has not arrived yet. Some tides are better than others with fair success typical right now.
KENAI RIVER: King salmon are entering the river is small numbers along with reds. Guides are getting some kings in and near tidewater but action remains poor. Reds, however, are more plentiful (but not in any great numbers yet) and moving into the river and through Soldotna and Sterling at this time; try drifting flies at Swiftwater and Bing’s Landing. Dolly Varden fishing is fair on the lower river; rainbows are fair on the middle river.Note: That section of the Kenai upstream of Killey River to Skilak Lake is closed to all fishing until June 11. Surf-casting for halibut at the mouth of the Kenai is fair to good using herring.
KASILOF RIVER: Overall, fishing is fair on this river with anglers catching more reds than kings at this time. Some anglers are getting their limits of three fish but are having to work for them; try swinging flies at peak high tide and the next couple of hours. As for kings, a few fish are being taken on the tides and at dawn but expect poor to fair success at best. Dolly Varden are quite abundant, providing fair to good action. The steelhead run is nearly finished as most fish are up on the spawning beds. Surf-casters may be able to find some good halibut fishing at the mouth of the river; try herring on high tide.
HOMER SPIT/DUDIAK LAGOON: The best fishing opportunities on the spit remains sea-run Dolly Varden and various species of bottomfish, providing good action for anglers. If targeting salmon, kings are present in the lagoon and a few are being caught on the tide changes using herring, salmon roe, and spinners; try the incoming tide inside the lagoon and outgoing tide on the ocean side for best luck.
COPPER RIVER: Anglers here are finding fair to excellent success on grayling in clewarwater tributaries such as Mendeltna, Tolsona, Gunsight, Haggard, Sourdough, Tulsona, and Gunn creeks. Rainbow trout may also be present. Use flies and small lures. Additionally, lakes in the region are yielding some excellent catches of trout and grayling as well. No reports of salmon being caught on the Klutina and Gulkana rivers yet but a few scouts could be showing up this weekend.
Updated May 24, 2018
Weekly Summary: As the Memorial Day weekend approaches and summer draws near, the salmon runs around the region appear to be lagging in strength compared to the last several years. Yet some really nice kings are being caught in quite a few locations, just not in the numbers many anglers are accustomed to for this time of the season. Despite promises of warmer temperatures the last ten days, it seems that meltwater is finally settling down a bit and streams are beginning to clear up, revealing decent opportunities to get into some fresh kings–even reds! The lower Kenai Peninsula streams of Ninilchik, Deep, and Anchor will all open to king salmon fishing this weekend and for the next few weekends and there are fish to be had according to latest reports. Additionally, the Kasilof and Kenai–as well as the lagoon in Homer–are seeing increasing numbers of kings, and reds are starting to show in Seward. This could be a good weekend to surf-cast for halibut on area beaches. Hooligan are still returning in large numbers to the 20-Mile and Kenai rivers, making for excellent dip netting. Up in the Mat-Su Valley, a few kings are being caught in the Little Susitna River and rainbow trout and grayling are active in many roadside waters. Clearwater streams of the Copper Valley are finally seeing good returns of grayling.
SUSITNA RIVER: Fair to very good opportunities await anglers trying their luck for rainbow trout and grayling in Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, and Montana creeks this weekend and into next week. Water conditions continue to fluctuate day to day depending on location but if water is clear and low, there will be fish to be had. Populations of fish are moving up these tributaries to spawn and feed for the summer months and forage flies and lures work well. There are also catches of Dolly Varden made every now and then. As a reminder, king salmon fishing in roadside waters of the Susitna River drainage is closed this year.
TURNAGAIN ARM/20-MILE RIVER: Dip netting continues to be excellent at the head of the arm and in stretches of the 20-Mile River; however, the run is tapering off in the saltwater with the season closing June 1. Full buckets and coolers are still possible, particularly in the river, with incoming and outgoing tides being productive. Also, low tides can be very good in areas above tidewater. Angling is just starting to pick up for sea-run char at the mouths of clearwater streams.
RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers casting fry and smolt imitation flies and lures are finding fair to good catches of sea-run char at the mouths of clearwater streams throughout the bay. Lowell Point and Tonsina Creek are two favorite locations this time of year. A few hatchery king salmon are cruising area waters as well. For bottomfish like flounder, greenling, and cod, try near the SeaLife Center and deeper waters along Lowell Point Road; fair to excellent catches can be had using herring. Red salmon are just starting their run up the Resurrection River.
KENAI RIVER: Good to excellent dip netting for hooligan reported from areas halfway between Soldotna and Kenai and the lower tidal sections of the river. King salmon are moving up the river in decent numbers but fishing for them is still slow. Red salmon are also making an appearance; try Bing’s Landing or anywhere there is some fast current next to main channel. Surf-casting off the north and south side of the river mouth for halibut can be very good at times with the medium-sized tides being best. The middle section of river has fair to good trout and char fishing. As a note, that section of the Kenai upstream of Killey River to Skilak Lake is closed to all fishing until June 11.
KASILOF RIVER: Sections of the river from Crooked Creek downstream into tidewater is yielding some nice king salmon, especially on an incoming tide or early morning. The use of bait is allowed. Most catches have been from boats but some fish are being taken off the bank as well. Overall, action is fair. Red salmon are due any day. Sea-run Dolly Varden are migrating through the river destined for summer feeding grounds along the beaches of Cook Inlet. Only a few steelhead trout remain with most fish now up Crooked Creek. Halibut are being caught at the mouth of the river on high tides; fair success on herring and salmon scraps.
COOK INLET: Halibut are present in decent numbers near shore and surf-casters are doing well on large high tides, particularly two hours before to two hours after peak. This weekend, Whiskey Gulch and the area from Deep Creek north to Ninilchik should produce fair to good catches. And, again, the mouths of Kenai and Kasilof rivers will have fish. Use herring, salmon scraps, or hooligan.
NINILCHIK RIVER: This weekend is the season opener for Ninilchik and the river is in good shape to catch king salmon. Fair numbers of fish are available throughout the area open to salmon fishing. Use salmon eggs, herring, attractor flies, and spinners. There is likely also a fair number of steelhead present. Scout holes from tidewater upstream beyond highway crossing.
DEEP CREEK: First weekend opener for kings. Water is a bit high and somewhat silty but otherwise in decent shape to get into king salmon. Expect fair action using salmon roe and flashy or colorful lures and flies. Try fishing the slower water of the tides for small schools of kings.
ANCHOR RIVER: Second weekend opener for kings here; last weekend yielded very poor fishing for kings but should be better this weekend. Water levels are dropping and visibility improving. Try an assortment of bait, like eggs and herring, and slow-action spoons and spinners. Attractor flies work. Try the upper limit of tidewater and fish holes after tide goes out.
HOMER SPIT/DUDIAK LAGOON: Anglers are still finding good fishing for sea-run Dollies around the beaches of the spit; try lures and flies imitating juvenile salmon or sandlance. These char are generally found feeding close to shore, in or near the surf. A few kings are passing through headed to the lagoon. Casting for bottomfish is good; use herring or small jigs for flounders and codfish. At the Dudiak Lagoon, a few king salmon have been caught. Drift herring or salmon roe on the tides or cast spinners.
COPPER RIVER: Clearwater tributaries in the area are yielding fair to excellent action for grayling, in particular Mendeltna, Tolsona, Sourdough, Gunsight, and Tulsona creeks, but most any stream these days should have fish in them. There may also be rainbow trout in a few of these drainages. Flies and small spinners do very well. It is too early to expect any salmon in Gulkana or Klutina rivers but a few scouts should start showing up by the end of next week. Fishing stocked lakes is good to excellent right now.
Updated May 18, 2018
Weekly Summary: A cool spring has put a damper on early-season action for king salmon around the region. Some nice fish have been showing up the last few days but not enough to provide for any consistent sport. However, warmer weather and water temperatures are promised for the coming week and fishing should spike as numbers of salmon increase and the bite turns on. The Anchor and Kasilof rivers along with Dudiak Lagoon on the peninsula should offer reasonably productive opportunities this weekend and next week, while Mat-Su valley anglers are eyeing the Little Susitna River for kings and clearwater tributaries of the Susitna for rainbows and grayling. Dip netters are enjoying good to excellent results along Turnagain Arm, 20-Mile River, and lower Kenai River. Surf-casting for halibut and other bottomfish can be spotty to good from peninsula beaches as fish are chasing hooligan in relatively shallow water.
SUSITNA RIVER: Anglers are finding spotty to good opportunities for rainbow trout and grayling at the mouths of clearwater tributaries, such as Willow, Little Willow, Sheep, and Montana creeks. Kashwitna should be worth an attempt as well. There could be a few kings showing up any day now but anglers are reminded that these salmon are closed to fishing this year; only the Little Susitna River is open to king salmon fishing on the valley road system.
TURNAGAIN ARM/20-MILE RIVER: Excellent dip netting for hooligan can be enjoyed along the rocky shoreline of Turnagain Arm and the tidal section of 20-Mile River, especially on outgoing tides. Many dippers are filling coolers of fish in a couple of hours or less. This run is at a peak and should continue to produce great catches for another week in the arm and next two weeks in 20-Mile.
RESURRECTION BAY: Sea-run char are responding very well to angler’s offerings along the beaches of the bay and generally found in greater concentrations at the mouths of salmon streams where they forage on juvenile salmon; use small flies and spoons resembling smolt and fry. Spring Creek off Nash Road and Tonsina Creek and Lowell Point on the west side of the bay are hot spots right now. Do not be surprised to spot a few early king and red salmon cruising around so be prepared to switch flies and tackle accordingly. Bottomfish such as greenling, flounder, and codfish are abundant in some areas of the bay, especially in locations with gravel bottom structure.
KENAI RIVER: Very good dip netting for hooligan can now be enjoyed in the tidewater sections of the lower river. Kenai Beach, Warren Ames Bridge, and Cunningham Park are choice locations to fill buckets of these silvery smelt for the next week or so. The beaches around the mouth of the river are also decent spots to try for halibut on high tides; use herring. King salmon are arriving but fishing for them has been spotty to poor as of yet; the deep holes of the upper limit of tidal influence are producing a few fish. It is not too early to scout for red salmon as these fish are typically in the river at this time of the month, albeit in small numbers. Anglers targeting rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are finding fair action in the mainstem river from tidewater up to Bing’s Landing and beyond.
KASILOF RIVER: King salmon continue to arrive in increasing numbers by the day and a few fish are being caught. Bait is now allowed; try in early morning near the mouth of Crooked Creek downstream into tidal portions of the river. Fly casters usually do better fishing the current at the top of a high tide for kings and can expect a few early red salmon to hit any day now as well. Dolly Varden are present in decent numbers throughout the river as they head downstream to Cook Inlet to feed for the summer. Steelhead trout action is slowing down but a few nice fish are still around. The mouth of the river is producing some nice catches of halibut on high tide.
COOK INLET: Surf-casters targeting halibut and other bottomfish are doing well some days, especially on very large tides of more than 18 feet. Herring is a great bait this time of year but hooligan works also. Whiskey Gulch, the mouths of Kasilof and Kenai rivers, and the beaches of Nikiski are productive right now.
ANCHOR RIVER: This weekend (19th, 20th) is the first opener for king salmon. There are low numbers of fish in the river but small schools can be encountered on incoming and high tides in tidewater sections; bait-scented lures and salmon roe should work best as water conditions are currently somewhat high, cold, and turbid due to recent rain and cool weather. Expect very poor to fair action. A few steelhead trout will be present. If skies clear and river drops, anglers may do better on Sunday and Monday.
HOMER SPIT/DUDIAK LAGOON: Anglers using ultra-light gear are finding great opportunities for sea-run char along the beaches of the spit. Cast flies and small spoons resembling juvenile salmon for success. Bottomfish such as flounder and codfish are providing good action at the end of the spit (Coal Point); pieces of herring is a top bait. An occasional king salmon may be encountered too. The lagoon is seeing a trickle of kings coming in on the tides but fishing for them is still slow; however, this could change any day now as schools of salmon are due to arrive. Drift salmon roe and cut herring or cast spinners.
COPPER RIVER: Anglers in this area are reporting grayling fishing to be fair to good in clearwater streams like Mendeltna, Tolsona, and Tulsona creeks but productive days can be had in most any drainage this time of year. Additionally, fishing for trout can be good in smaller lakes that have open water present.
Updated May 9, 2018
Weekly Summary: The fishing season for salmon and other game species is getting started as the first king salmon of the year are beginning to show up in coastal rivers and streams of the Kenai Peninsula and upper Cook Inlet, and rainbow trout and grayling are migrating into spawning waters throughout the region. Expect the next week to offer solid opportunities as numbers of fish increase and water temperatures rise. Likewise, the marine fisheries around the peninsula and Prince William Sound are picking up; halibut are available to surf-casters along with multiple other species of bottomfish. Nearshore catches of king salmon is improving and a few reds are present as well.
TURNAGAIN ARM: The annual spawning migration of hooligan into area drainages has begun in earnest with good to excellent catches reported the last few days. This run should begin to peak by the weekend. Dippers focused on the rocky shoreline between Peterson Creek and 20-Mile River are doing best. There is also very good fishing to be had in stretches of the 20-Mile River. Full buckets is normal after an hour or two on the water, with some even scoring coolers full. Generally, the incoming and outgoing tides are best.
RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers targeting sea-run char off area beaches are doing fair and things should heat up even more by the weekend as more fish exit streams and enter the bay to feed for the summer. Try flies and small lures resembling juvenile salmon at or near the mouths of clearwater streams. Herring are now present at the head of the bay, including the boat harbor, and a few kings should be there as well. Fair to good action for bottomfish from shore. It is that time of year when the first reds of the season show up at the mouth of Resurrection River.
KENAI RIVER: There are several decent angling opportunities on the lower river. Fair catches of rainbow trout are being made upstream of Bing’s Landing and there are even a few steelhead in the mix too, mainly near the mouths of spawning tributaries such as Funny River and Slikok Creek. King salmon are migrating into tidewater sections but catches have been very poor, as is typical this time of year. Surf-casting for halibut off the mouth of the river is starting to pick up as hooligan are now showing up. Note: The Upper Kenai and Russian rivers as well as a section of the middle Kenai and tributaries close to all fishing on May 1 and will not reopen until June 11.
KASILOF RIVER: King salmon are entering this river in small numbers. Success has been very spotty with boats responsible for the few catches that have been made thus far; try plugs. No reports of any kings from shore yet but likely to happen any day now. The steelhead bite is tapering off as fish are entering Crooked Creek to spawn but poor to fair opportunities will persist for another several days still. Dolly Varden are present. Surf-casters have done well on halibut off the river mouth last ten days.
COOK INLET: Fair to good success on halibut along the beaches of the inlet, from the mouth of Kenai and Kasilof rivers south to Anchor Point. Herring is the perfect bait this time of year. Please note conservation zones that are closed to fishing in spring and early summer (check regulations).
HOMER SPIT: Very good Dolly Varden action right now; try flies and lures imitating juvenile salmon and sandlance. Long casts are not necessary as fish are situated close to shore. Surf-casters are finding fair success on flounder and codfish at the tip of the spit, Coal Point. King salmon have been spotted close to the beach also, including at the mouth of the stream draining Dudiak Lagoon.
Updated April 24, 2018
This is the first weekly open-water fishing report of the 2018 season.
Weekly Summary: With the advent of spring, an increasing number of waters are becoming ice-free or are in the process of breaking up but many locations are still firmly locked up, particularly at higher elevations. During the month of April, rivers and streams have a subtle supply of fish available and only a few key spots offer any good or consistent opportunities, mainly for trout, char, and/or grayling. Bottomfish, such as halibut, and char are now present in nearshore waters around the Kenai Peninsula. Before heading out, please check a copy of the 2018 fishing regulations for areas or waters that are open to fishing.
KENAI RIVER: As the spring spawn period is rapidly approaching, large rainbow trout are beginning to move out of Skilak and Kenai lakes and into the mainstem river. Fish are being caught in varying numbers along the upper and middle sections of water. The mouths of clearwater tributaries can be decent spots to find trout this time of year, including the Russian River. Additionally, a few steelhead trout may be caught in certain locations, such as near Funny River and Slikok Creek. Forage pattern flies and plugs are effective. Note: The Upper Kenai and Russian rivers as well as a section of the middle Kenai and tributaries close to all fishing on May 1 and will not reopen until June 11.
KASILOF RIVER: Flowing wide open, this river is starting to produce a few steelhead trout. There will be fish present throughout the length of water from Tustumena Lake down to tidewater with most catches being made between the highway bridge and mouth of Crooked Creek. Try plugs, flies. An occasional Dolly Varden also available.
COOK INLET: As herring begin their annual spawn along the inlet’s beaches and hooligan are showing up headed to rivers farther north, halibut can now be successfully targeted by surfcasters. Some fish have been caught and action should only get better later in the month and on into May. Try soaking herring at peak high tides at places such as the mouth of Kasilof River, North Ninilchik Beach, and Whiskey Gulch.
HOMER SPIT: The annual showing of sea-run Dolly Varden is underway at the spit in Homer with anglers doing the best using small flies or lures imitating baitfish or juvenile salmon. Try tidal changes and look for fish close to the surf. Some flounders and codfish are showing up but not in any great numbers yet. While it is still very early, a few hatchery kings bound for the lagoon could appear any day now along the beaches of the spit.