Hot Spots of the Week

The most productive roadside fisheries this week:

WELCOME TO THE 2025 FISHING SEASON

This page is primarily catered to open-water fishing opportunities in Southcentral Alaska rivers, streams, and saltwater, but there will be some information on ice fisheries in season. Main reports run weekly from approximately late April to late October reflecting the availability of salmon, trout, char, and other popular species in regional waters; however, there may be occasional reports between November and April as conditions warrant.

Updated Friday, August 1

ROADSIDE FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KENAI REDS; SHIP SILVERS; RUSSIAN REDS; KASILOF REDS; SUSITNA PINKS, CHUMS, RAINBOWS; BIRD SILVERS, CHUMS; HOMER SILVERS, COD, BOTTOMFISH; HOPE PINKS; LITTLE SUSITNA CHUMS

REGIONAL SUMMARY: As the month of August has arrived, the mid-summer runs of salmon are generally at their peak while a few—especially concerning pinks and chums—are already seeing a slow-down as fish mature into the spawning phase. The same observation can be applied to some red salmon runs as well in some cases, although the early runs of silver are just now really beginning to shine. Still, this weekend will see some exceptional angling opportunities for salmon throughout the region that not only provides fast and reliable action but a selection of species to be had, too. As for resident species like trout, char, grayling, and whitefish and others, this is the month when things really begin popping in many locations, particularly those that are experiencing runs of salmon. But the lake fisheries are generally not up to par in most low-lying areas as water temperatures are high and fish deep—however, alpine lakes can be great at this time. Marine species are yielding plenty of opportunities with a myriad of bottomfish to be had in shallow waters, while the larger sharks and skates are also active; halibut are being more coy and not expected to pick up until later this month.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at low levels and slightly greenish-clear, depending on weather conditions. Tides are small this weekend (~22-26 ft.), occurring at night/very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Decent number of fish present but quality has dropped; try spoons, spinners, jigs, and flies. Size 2-5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to spawning, most semi-bright to medium blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Good to Excellent. Incoming and outgoing tides likely to produce limits; use spinners or roe with a bobber, flies also work. Run is peaking. Size 3-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most chrome/bright. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

OTHER: A rare dark king salmon may be present, even a decent color one, and retention allowed by regulation. A few chum salmon possible; occasional catches of reds. Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tide.

BIRD CREEK

Conditions: Stream flowing greenish-clear at seasonal levels. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. Tides are small this weekend (~22-26 ft.), occurring at night/very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Good to Fair. Decent number of fish available but most of run is starting to turn color; sight-fishing is great way to target brighter specimens. Spoons, spinners, flies all work. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Fish condition chrome to spawning, most semi-bright to medium blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair to Good. Scout deep holes and runs; try incoming and outgoing tide. Spoons, flies, and roe best. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most semi-bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Good. Run has arrived and should start peaking shortly. Incoming and outgoing tides best; spinners, flies, and salmon roe with a bobber work well. Size 3-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most chrome/bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Anglers do best fishing small bait on bottom from highway bridge on downstream; also try small spoons, spinners, and flies. Size 6-15 in.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; moderate visibility. Use of bait and multiple hooks prohibited—check emergency orders. Last day of king season is August 10.

KING SALMON: Fair. Large, late-run fish arriving. Fish condition bright to dark red, most light/medium blush. Bright and colorful attractors work. Size 15-35 lbs., up to 45 lbs. **Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Action still productive as late runs are apparently moving into river and through mouth bound for other drainages. Limits possible. Flipping/drifting yarn flies best. Size 5-7 lbs. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most semi-bright to medium blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Outlet of Klutina Lake and far upper end of river is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size 12-22 in., some up to 4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible. Also check out nearby Tonsina River for kings and reds.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are small this weekend (~12.5-15.5 ft.), occurring in late morning and late evening. For marine species, herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order. Conservation zones around stream mouths are now open to fishing.

PINK SALMON: Fair. Target schools of fish moving along beach at incoming and high tide—look for fish jumping; try around mouths of area streams also. Spoons and spinners best. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair. Target schools of fish moving along beach at incoming and high tide—look for fish jumping; try around mouths of area streams also. Spoons and spinners best. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

HALIBUT: Very Slow. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Size 10-15 lbs.; larger specimens possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Deep Creek/Ninilchik may yield a fish. Bag limit 2 fish.

SHARK/SKATE: Good. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach best bet. Size 15-30 lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are small this weekend (~6-9 ft.); occurring mid/late morning and mid/late evening. Lingcod fishing prohibited by regulation (within bay proper).

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Fish may be found throughout the bay. Try mouths of Tonsina and Spruce creeks and associated beaches on incoming tide; also along Lowell Point Road, South Beach, and beach from Spring Creek to Afognak Beach. Spoons, spinners, flies, jigs work. Fish condition chrome to spawning, most bright to light blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Mouth of Tonsina Creek has been productive; also some fish present at Afognak Beach. Snagging most effective harvest method; also spoons, jigs, and flies. Fish condition chrome to spawning; most semi-bright to medium blush. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Few fish left in marine waters, most have moved into freshwaters; try upper/middle Salmon Creek and mouths of clearwater streams draining into Resurrection River. Use small spoons/flies and beads. Size 10-20 in., up to 4-5 lbs. or more.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; Tonsina Creek Beach sometimes productive at peak low tide. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size 10-20 lbs., occasionally up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

BOTTOMFISH: Good. Best spots along Lowell Point Road and off Lowell Point beach for pollock, flounder, greenling, and a few rockfish; occasional catches of shark, skate. Herring or squid bait best; smaller jigs work well at times. Bag limit varies according to species (none for pollock, flounder, sole, greenling, sculpin); check regulations.

OTHER: A few bright reds and the occasional hatchery king may be present around mouth of Scheffler Creek. First silver salmon expected to be caught from shore any day.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water level is near normal summer average; clarity fair. Tides are small this weekend (~12.5-15.5 ft.), occurring in late morning and late evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only. Closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

RED SALMON: Good to Excellent. Season run total stands at over 1 million reds; run may have peaked but great action still as anglers are limiting out; actual success varies by location, tide, and day. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Size 4-6 lbs., up to 8 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

PINK SALMON: Fair. Some fish are present in lower river, especially around mouth of Crooked Creek, and striking lures and flies. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most semi-bright to light blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Fish are distributed throughout river. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size 10-20 in.

OTHER: First silver salmon possible any day. Some rainbows and a few round whitefish present.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are near seasonal average; clarity moderate. Tides are small this weekend (~12.5-15.5 ft.), occurring in late morning and late evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited.

RED SALMON: Excellent. Season total for late run expected to reach 3 million this weekend. Run is still peaking, may see slower periods in days ahead along with spikes lasting through early/mid-August. Many anglers are quickly limiting out from Skilak Lake outlet to tidewater. Flip and swing/drift flies; small plugs also work. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright to semi-bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

PINK SALMON: Poor. Small number of pinks being caught between tidewater and Skilak Lake outlet; use spoons, spinners, plugs, flies. Fish condition chrome to spawning; most semi-bright to dark blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Generally productive from upper tidewater to Skilak Lake outlet, especially downstream of salmon cleaning areas. Salmon egg imitations and flesh flies most effective, also small spoons, spinners, plugs. Size teens to 5-6 lbs., up to 10 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. Generally productive from upper tidewater to Skilak Lake outlet, especially downstream of salmon cleaning areas. Salmon egg imitations and flesh flies most effective, also small spoons, spinners, plugs. Size 10-23 in., up to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. First silver salmon reported caught.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Good. Late-run fish arriving in large numbers, fish quality likely peaking now, quantity of blush specimens will increase substantially this coming week. Try from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet for brighter specimens but fish are distributed throughout length of river. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright/semi-bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage from Kenai Lake outlet to Skilak Lake inlet. Forage pattern flies best, also try dry and flesh flies. Size 10-23 in., up to 10 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage from Kenai Lake outlet to Skilak Lake inlet. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size 10-20 in., up to 6 lbs. or more.

ROUND WHITEFISH: Fair. Some fish are being caught on beads/very small corkies from Kenai Lake outlet to Skilak Lake inlet. Size 9-15 in.

OTHER: Small numbers of round whitefish being caught; a few blush pink salmon present, rare chum.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are very low; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Good to Excellent. Mouth of river (sanctuary) offers best opportunities, especially early morning. Late-run fish arriving, quality of fish peaking now. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; best action early morning in stretch of water from campground through sanctuary using forage and flesh pattern flies, also try dry flies and beads. Size 10-20 in., up to 5 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Small but increasing number of char present, especially in sanctuary/river mouth; few fish upstream. Forage/flesh flies effective. Size 10-20 in., up to 3 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Occasional grayling higher up towards the falls.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are small this weekend (~11.5-15.5 ft.), occurring in mid/late morning and late evening.

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Schools of fish cruising along beaches of spit on the tides. Cast spoons or small herring; spinners and flies also work. Fish condition chrome/bright to medium blush. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair to Good. Fish bound for the lagoon are moving along shoreline of spit; lagoon itself supports best fishing with limits possible, especially outgoing tide. Try casting spoons, spinners, and small herring on the tides. Fish condition chrome/bright to light blush. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish in bay area, 6 fish in lagoon.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4-10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

BOTTOMFISH: Excellent. A variety of species being caught off Coal Point/End of Spit; mainly pollock, flounder, sculpin. Low tide best. Some smaller halibut less than 10 pounds present; larger specimens as well as rockfish, skate, and shark possible in area at front of hotel and condos. Bag limit varies according to species (none for pollock, flounder, sole, greenling, sculpin); check regulations.

OTHER: Red salmon are present in small numbers along the spit and a few are being caught in the lagoon; a few sea-run Dolly Varden may be present.

HOPE/RESURRECTION CREEK

Conditions: Water levels are moderate, current swift; clarity good. Search for salmon anywhere there is deeper water and slower current; fish the calmer water of tides. Tides are small this weekend (~22-26 ft.), occurring at night/very early morning and mid/late afternoon. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Good to Fair. Peak for quality fish is in the past, quantity now the rule—sort out fresh fish from pre-spawners. Try in tidewater on incoming, high, and outgoing tide. Spoon, spinners, and jigs and drifting/swinging flies work best. Fish condition chrome to spawning, most medium/dark blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Mediocre return of fish; try spoons and roe on the tides, flip/swing/drift flies upstream. If water is clear, sight-fish deeper spots. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most semi-bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor to Fair. Small showing of fish in tidewater, few fish upstream—run peaks in two to three weeks. Try incoming, high, and outgoing tide casting spinners and flies, roe with bobber. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 4-8 lbs., to 11 lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Incoming and high tides produce the better action; use small spoons and spinners and flies resembling juvenile salmon, or roe fished on bottom. Size 6-15 in., up to 3 lbs.

OTHER: Occasional catches of red salmon. Nearby Sixmile Creek yielding a few silvers.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low; clarity generally good with warmer/drier weather. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited, single-hook/artificial lures only.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Late-run fish working their way into drainage; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear, sight-fishing to schools of salmon. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Fish condition bright to dark red, most bright to light blush. Size 5-7 lbs., up to 9 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river section in and around canyon/narrows area. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size 8-20 in., up to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8-13 in., up to 18 in.

OTHER: Mediocre number of kings present (closed to fishing by regulation). Occasional catches of whitefish.

LITTLE SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation; only unbaited, artificial lures allowed through August 5.

PINK SALMON: Fair. Smaller number of fish present, better quality in lower river; Houston access site has mostly dark fish. Spoons, spinners, flies work. Fish condition bright to spawning, most blush. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Good. Productive for brighter fish from lower river access site; Houston access site has mostly dark fish. Spoons, plugs, flies best. Fish condition chrome to pre-spawning, most semi-bright. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair. Run is building and some anglers managing limits on lower river access point; very few fish have reached Houston/Parks Highway area. Spoons, spinners, flies best. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

OTHER: Some rainbow trout and Dolly Varden, the occasional round whitefish and grayling being caught. Late run of reds moving through lower and middle river; slow.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels in tributaries are generally low and clarity good to excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Concentrations of fish are being encountered at mouths and lower reaches of tributaries—runs are peaking; Willow, Kashwitna, Sheep, and Montana creeks best. Spoons, spinners, jigs, and flies all work. Fish condition bright to spawning, most semi-bright to dark blush—catch-and-release for fresh specimens. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish (not part of general salmon limit).

CHUM SALMON: Good to Excellent. Schools of fish are found at confluence with tributaries and lower reaches—runs are peaking; Willow, Kashwitna, Sheep, and Montana hot spots for bright fish. Spoons, jigs, flies, attractors with roe best. Fish condition bright to spawning, most semi-bright to dark blush—catch-and-release for fresh specimens. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair. Runs are building, will begin to peak in a week to ten days. Try mouths of Willow, Sheep, and Montana; small number of fish at road crossings yet. Try spoons, spinners, jigs, and roe. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most bright. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Deception, and Willow, also Byers, Honolulu, and East Fork Chulitna. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size 8-20 in., up to 3-4 lbs. or more.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are found throughout drainage; try middle and upper parts of Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Willow, and Deception, and Middle Fork Chulitna using flies and small spinners. Size 8-13 in., up to 16 in.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Willow, Montana, and Sheep. Size 9-14 in., up to 3 lbs.

ROUND WHITEFISH: Fair. Anglers are picking up some decent catches if targeted; try beads and roe fished on bottom. Lower reaches of Little Willow, Sheep, and Kashwitna best, also mouths of Willow, Montana. Size 9-15 in.

OTHER: Burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or red salmon might be encountered also. Some kings present (closed to fishing).

PORT VALDEZ

Conditions: Water is silty on low tide, clear to greenish at high. Tides are small this weekend (~7-10.5 ft.), occurring mid/late morning and mid/late evening.

PINK SALMON: Good. Productive action for bright fish from shore at Allison Point and city dock on incoming tides, Solomon Gulch Creek hatchery has a very large concentration of blush/dark fish—catch-and-release for quality. Fish are also moving up Robe River. Spoons and spinners work best; also colorful flies. Fish condition chrome to spawning, most between bright to dark blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 12 fish by emergency order.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Some fish are available in boat harbor and off city dock, also mouths of streams on north side of port. Snagging most effective; try casting spoons and jigs, also herring with bobber. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most bright/semi-bright to blush depending on location in bay. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. A lot of fish are showing up in Robe River as well as mouths of clearwater streams draining into Lowe River. Egg and flesh imitation flies work, also small spoons, spinners. Size 8-14 in.

BOTTOMFISH: Fair to Good. Dropping bait and small jigs at city dock is producing a variety of smaller codfish, sablefish, and flounder/sole. Occasional catches of lingcod, rare halibut and wolfeel possible. Bag limit varies according to species (none for pollock, flounder, sole, greenling, sculpin); check regulations.

OTHER: A few reds present in port, primarily bound for Lowe River. First shore-caught silver salmon due any day.

Updated Friday, July 25

ROADSIDE FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KENAI REDS; SHIP SILVERS; KASILOF REDS; VALDEZ PINKS; SUSITNA PINKS, CHUMS, RAINBOWS; BIRD PINKS, SILVERS, CHUMS; HOMER PINKS, SILVERS, COD, BOTTOMFISH; HOPE PINKS

REGIONAL SUMMARY: The productive mid- and late summer fisheries are rallying as droves of reds, pinks, chums, and silvers are infiltrating many of our coastal and inland drainages throughout the region and there are even a couple of spots open for late-run kings. In terms of sheer fish abundance and quality overall for all species involved, this weekend and next will likely be the zenith of activity for this season. Also, trout and char fishing along with grayling is really beginning to pick up steam as their favorite sources of food—salmon and its byproducts—are arriving in force and available in their home waters. As for marine species, all smaller types of fish as well as shark and skate are plentiful in the shallows of beaches, points, and docks.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at low levels and slightly greenish-clear, depending on weather conditions. Tides are large/very large this weekend (~29.5-31 ft.), occurring early/mid morning and mid/late evening.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Big schools present in spots, lots of action using spoons, spinners, jigs, and flies. Catch and release for quality specimens. Size 2-5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to dark blush/spawning, most semi-bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Good. Anglers are faring well on the incoming and outgoing tides with limits common; use spinners or roe with a bobber, flies also work. Peak of run about a week away. Size 3-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome to semi-bright, most chrome/bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: A few dark king salmon linger; a rare decent specimen possible and retention is allowed by regulation. A few chum salmon possible; occasional catches of reds. Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tide.

BIRD CREEK

Conditions: Stream flowing greenish-clear at seasonal levels. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. Tides are large/very large this weekend (~29.5-31 ft.), occurring early/mid morning and mid/late evening.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Decent number of fish available; sight-fishing is very rewarding if targeting bright specimens. Run is starting to turn—one more week. Spoons, spinners, flies all work. Size 2-5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to dark blush/spawning, most semi-bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Good. Run has arrived and will peak soon. Incoming and outgoing tides best; spinners, flies, and salmon roe with a bobber work well. Size 3-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome to semi-bright, most bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Anglers do best fishing small bait on bottom from highway bridge on downstream; also try small spoons, spinners, and flies. Size 6-15 in.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; moderate visibility. Opened to king salmon fishing on July 1; use of bait and multiple hooks prohibited—check emergency orders. Last day of king season is August 10.

KING SALMON: Poor to Fair. Large, late-run fish arriving in lower and middle river sections. Fish condition bright to dark red, most semi-bright/light blush. Bright and colorful attractors work. Size 15-35 lbs., up to 45 lbs. **Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Run hanging on with latest pulse coming through, should slow again soon; fish are spread throughout river. Limits possible. Flipping/drifting yarn flies best. Size 5-7 lbs. Fish condition grayish bright/semi-bright to dark blush, most light/medium blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Outlet of Klutina Lake and far upper end of river is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size 12-22 in., some up to 4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are large/very large this weekend (~20-22 ft.), occurring in early morning and evening. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order. Conservation zones around stream mouths are now open to fishing.

HALIBUT: Poor. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Size 10-15 lbs.; larger specimens possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Deep Creek/Ninilchik are producing a few fish. Bag limit 2 fish.

SHARK/SKATE: Good to Excellent. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Size 15-30 lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red, pink, and silver salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are large this weekend (~9.5-11.5 ft.); occurring at night/very early morning and mid/late afternoon. Lingcod fishing prohibited by regulation (within bay proper).

PINK SALMON: Good. Fish may be found throughout the bay. Try mouths of Tonsina and Spruce creeks and associated beaches on incoming tide; also along Lowell Point Road, South Beach, and beach from Spring Creek to Afognak Beach. Spoons, spinners, flies, jigs work. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most bright/semi-bright. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Some nice fish present in area from Spring Creek Beach to Afognak Beach, and around Tonsina Creek. Snagging most effective harvest method; also spoons, jigs, and flies. Fish condition chrome to dark blush; most bright to light blush. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. In saltwater, try Lowell Point and mouths of clearwater streams (Spruce and Tonsina) draining into bay; upper/middle Salmon Creek has decent action. Use small spoons/flies resembling juvenile salmon. Try incoming and outgoing tides. Size 10-20 in., up to 4-5 lbs.

PACIFIC COD: Fair. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: A few bright reds and the occasional dark hatchery king may be landed around mouth of Scheffler Creek. First silver salmon expected to be caught from shore any day.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and slowly rising; clarity fair. Tides will be large/very large this weekend (~20-22 ft.), occurring in early morning and evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only. Closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order as of July 10.

RED SALMON: Good to Excellent. Fish are being caught from shore and many anglers are limiting out; actual success varies by location, tide, and day. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Size 4-6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Sea-run char are moving upstream from tidewater; lower end of river has better opportunities. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size 10-20 in.

OTHER: A few pinks being caught; first silver salmon possible any day now. Some rainbows and a few round whitefish present.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are seasonally high; clarity moderate. Tides are large/very large this weekend (~20-22 ft.), occurring in early morning and evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited.

RED SALMON: Excellent. Late run is peaking; very large/huge daily counts may continue several more days with some big numbers typical into early August. Best success early morning. Many anglers quickly limiting out from Skilak Lake outlet to tidewater. Flip and swing/drift flies; small plugs also work. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

PINK SALMON: Poor. Small number of pinks being caught between tidewater and Skilak Lake outlet; use spoons, spinners, plugs, flies. Fish condition chrome to dark blush/spawning; most semi-bright. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Salmon egg imitations and flesh flies most effective, also small spoons, spinners, plugs. Size teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. Lower river now seeing high density of char. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners, plugs. Size 10-23 in., up to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. First few silver salmon expected any day.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Late-run fish arriving in decent numbers, should peak next week; early run has ended. Try from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright/semi-bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage from Kenai Lake outlet to Skilak Lake inlet. Forage pattern flies best, also try dry and flesh flies. Size 10-23 in., up to 10 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Numbers increasing daily and should be very productive in another week. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size 10-20 in., up to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Small numbers of round whitefish being caught; a few early-run pink salmon present.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are very low; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Good. Mouth of river (sanctuary) offers best opportunities, especially early morning. Late-run fish arriving, should peak next week; early run has finished. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; best action in stretch of water from campground through sanctuary using forage and flesh pattern flies, also try dry flies and beads. Size 10-20 in., up to 5 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Small but increasing number of char present, especially in sanctuary/river mouth; few fish upstream. Forage/flesh flies effective. Size 10-20 in., up to 3 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Occasional grayling higher up towards the falls.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are large this weekend (~19-20 ft.), occurring in early morning and late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Schools of fish cruising along beaches of spit on the tides. Cast spoons or small herring; spinners and flies also work. Fish condition chrome/bright to light blush. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair to Good. Fish bound for the lagoon are moving along shoreline of spit; lagoon itself supports best fishing with limits possible on especially outgoing tide. Try casting spoons, spinners, and small herring on the tides. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish in bay area, 6 fish in lagoon.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4-10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Red salmon are showing in decent numbers along the spit and a few have also been caught in the lagoon; a few sea-run Dolly Varden may be present.

HOPE/RESURRECTION CREEK

Conditions: Water levels are moderate, current swift; clarity fair and improving after recent high water event. Search for salmon anywhere there is deeper water and slower current; fish the calmer water of tides. Tides are large/very large this weekend (~29.5-31 ft.), occurring early/mid morning and mid/late evening. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Run continues to build but fish quality has probably peaked; fish quantity will peak starting next week. Try in tidewater on incoming, high, and outgoing tide. Spoon, spinners, and jigs and drifting/swinging flies work best. Fish condition chrome to dark blush/spawning; most bright to medium blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Mediocre return of fish; try spoons and roe on the tides, flip/swing/drift flies upstream. If water is clear, sight-fish deeper spots. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright/semi-bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Incoming and high tides produce the better action; use small spoons and spinners and flies resembling juvenile salmon, or roe fished on bottom. Size 6-15 in., up to 3 lbs.

OTHER: A few silver salmon are present in tidewater; occasional catches of red salmon. Nearby Sixmile Creek is experiencing a decent return of chums in addition to some silvers.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are fairly low; clarity generally good with warmer/drier weather. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited, single-hook/artificial lures only.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Late-run fish working their way into drainage; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Fish condition bright to dark red, most light/medium blush. Size 5-7 lbs., up to 9 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river section in and around canyon/narrows area. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size 8-20 in., up to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8-13 in., up to 18 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are generally low and clarity good to excellent in tributaries. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Concentrations of fish are being encountered at mouths of tributaries and lower reaches—run starting to peak; Willow, Kashwitna, Sheep, and Montana creeks best. Spoons, spinners, jigs, and flies all work. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright to light blush. Size 2-4 lbs., up to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish (not part of general salmon limit).

CHUM SALMON: Good. Schools of fish are found at confluence with tributaries and lower reaches—run starting to peak; Willow, Kashwitna, Sheep, and Montana hot spots for bright fish. Spoons, jigs, flies, attractors with roe best. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright to light blush. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor to Fair. First started arriving ten days ago, run is building—expect another ten days before run starts to peak. Try spoons, spinners, jigs, and roe. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Willow, Montana, and Sheep. Size 9-14 in., up to 3 lbs.

OTHER: Round whitefish present in decent numbers in lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or red salmon might be encountered also. Some kings present (closed to fishing).

PORT VALDEZ

Conditions: Water is silty on low tide, clear to greenish at high. Tides are large this weekend (~8-12.5 ft.), occurring very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Excellent. Very productive action from shore at Allison Point and beach at Solomon Gulch Creek hatchery on the tides; peak time for bright fish has passed but still many fresh specimens to be found—catch-and-release for quality. Some tides/days may be slower pending commercial/cost recovery operations in port. Fish are showing up at mouth and lower reaches of Robe River. Spoon and spinners work best; also colorful flies. Fish condition chrome/bright to dark blush; most bright to light blush. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 12 fish by emergency order.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Some fish are being encountered along breakwater in front of town and in boat harbor, also mouths of streams on north side of port. Snagging most effective; try casting spoons and jigs, also herring with bobber. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

OTHER: A few reds present in port, primarily bound for Lowe River. Dolly Varden may be encountered in port but better at mouth and lower reaches of Robe River.

Updated Thursday, July 17

ROADSIDE FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KENAI REDS; KASILOF REDS; VALDEZ PINKS; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; SHIP PINKS, SILVERS; BIRD PINKS, CHUMS; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH; KLUTINA REDS; HOPE PINKS

REGIONAL SUMMARY: Hot fishing opportunities are flourishing right now as mid-summer runs of red, pink, and chum salmon are filling rivers and streams and saltwater locations, and even the early silver salmon runs are shaping up quite well for this time of season. There are even a couple of chances to tie into late-run king salmon. But from now on and into the first part of August will see the best action the region has to offer this season. Also, stream opportunities for trout, char, grayling, and whitefish are building in intensity as the various salmon runs arrive and begin spawning, which will soon promote a feeding frenzy for these resident species. Not to be outdone, marine species are keeping surf-casters busy all along the coast of Southcentral, yet halibut are taking their usual break until waters cool off starting in another month.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at low levels and slightly greenish-clear, depending on weather conditions. Tides are small to medium this weekend (~24.5-29 ft.), occurring very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Schools of fish arriving on each tide; limits easy if targeted. Low tide in deeper slots also productive. Spoons, spinners, jigs, flies effective. Size 2-5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Fair. A number of fish showing up on the tides and limits are possible with time and effort; use spinners or roe with a bobber, flies also work. Action will continue to get better, run peaking in about 10-14 days. Size 3-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome/bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: A few king salmon present, mainly on the tides, but most fish are in spawning colors; an occasional bright specimen possible yet and retention is allowed by regulation. Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides. Chum salmon possible; occasional catches of reds.

BIRD CREEK

Conditions: Stream flowing greenish-clear at seasonal levels. Stream opened to fishing on July 14. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. Tides are small to medium this weekend, occurring very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Decent number of fish with limits easy if targeting them; sight-fishing is extremely effective. Great time if looking for bright pinks, run will soon start to turn. Spoons, spinners, flies all work. Size 2-5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Good time to encounter chrome specimens; try incoming and outgoing tide. Spoons, flies, and roe best. Size 6-10 lbs., up to 13 lbs. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright/semi-bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor to Fair. Some fish arriving on each tide but limits generally not consistent yet but possible with time and effort. Spinners, flies, and salmon roe best. Size 3-8 lbs., to 11 lbs. Fish condition chrome/bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Anglers do best fishing bait on bottom from highway bridge on downstream; also try small spoons, spinners, and flies. Size 6-15 in.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; moderate visibility. Opened to king salmon fishing on July 1; use of bait and multiple hooks prohibited—check emergency orders.

KING SALMON: Poor. Majority of fish present in upper river are early run kings; larger, late-run fish starting to arrive in lower. Fish condition generally dark red with brighter late-run specimens. Bright and colorful attractors work. Size 15-35 lbs., up to 45 lbs. **Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Run hanging on with latest pulse coming through, should slow again soon; fish are spread throughout river. Limits possible. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size 5-7 lbs. Fish condition grayish bright/semi-bright to dark blush, most light/medium blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Outlet of Klutina Lake and far upper end of river is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size 12-22 in., some up to 4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are small to medium this weekend (14-18.5 ft.), occurring in late morning/early afternoon and late evening. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order. Conservation zones around stream mouths are now open to fishing.

SHARK/SKATE: Good to Excellent. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Size 15-30 lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red, pink, and silver salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are small to medium this weekend (6.5-10.5 ft.); occurring mid/late morning and late evening. Lingcod fishing prohibited by regulation (within bay proper).

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Fish may be found throughout the bay. Try mouths of Tonsina and Spruce creeks and associated beaches on incoming tide; also along Lowell Point Road, South Beach, and Spring Creek Beach. Spoons, spinners, flies, jigs work. Fish condition chrome to medium blush, most bright. Size 2-5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Scout Lowell Point and mouths of clearwater streams draining into bay; Spruce and Tonsina good spots. Use small spoons/flies resembling juvenile salmon. Try incoming and outgoing tides. Size 10-20 in.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: A few mostly dark hatchery kings may still linger around mouth of Scheffler Creek. Silver salmon on the way; boaters are getting limits in outer bay and the first fish could be landed around city beaches any day now.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity fair. Tides will be small to medium this weekend (14-18.5 ft.); occurring in late morning/early afternoon and late evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only. Closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order as of July 10.

OTHER: A few pinks being caught; first silver salmon possible any day now. Some rainbows and a few round whitefish present.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are seasonally high; clarity moderate. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited.

RED SALMON: Excellent. Late run beginning to peak; expect large/huge daily counts to begin and continue for the next ten days or more. Waves of fish coming through; best success early morning. Many anglers easily limiting out from Skilak Lake outlet to tidewater. Flip and swing/drift flies; small plugs also work. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

PINK SALMON: Poor. A small number of early-run tributary pinks moving through and being caught between tidewater and Skilak Lake outlet; bigger, late-run mainstem fish due shortly. Use spoons, spinners, plugs, flies. Fish condition chrome to medium blush; most bright. Size 2-4 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. Lower river now seeing high density of char. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners, plugs. Size 10-23 in., up to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Some kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. First few silver salmon could arrive any day.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair. Late-run fish starting to arrive; early run has more or less ended. Try from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush. Size 4 to 9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Small numbers of round whitefish being caught; a few early-run pink salmon present.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair. Mouth of river (sanctuary) offers some opportunities, especially early morning. First batch of late-run fish arriving in confluence area; early run practically done. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most bright. Size 4-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; best action in stretch of water from campground through sanctuary using forage and flesh pattern flies best, also try dry flies and beads. Size 10-20 in., up to 5 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Small but increasing number of char present, especially in sanctuary/river mouth; few fish upstream. Forage/flesh flies effective. Size 10-20 in., up to 3 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Occasional grayling higher up towards the falls.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are small to medium this weekend (13.5-18 ft.), occurring in late morning and late evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

PINK SALMON: Fair. Schools of fish cruising along beaches of spit on the tides. Cast spoons or small herring; spinners and flies also work. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 2-5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor to Fair. Fish bound for the lagoon are moving along shoreline of spit; lagoon itself supports best fishing with near-limits possible on incoming and outgoing tide. Try casting spoons, spinners, and small herring on the tides. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 4-8 lbs., up to 11 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish in bay area, 6 fish in lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor. Incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit may yield a few fish; try Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Action is continuing to slow down as fish are leaving area for freshwater. Try small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon. Size 10-20 in., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Red salmon are showing in decent numbers along the spit and a few have also been caught in the lagoon; silver salmon are starting to arrive and several have been caught in the lagoon already and the action will only improve from now on.

HOPE/RESURRECTION CREEK

Conditions: Water levels are moderate, current swift; clarity fair and improving after recent high water event. Search for salmon anywhere there is deeper water and slower current; fish the calmer water of tides. Tides are small to medium this weekend (~24.5-29 ft.), occurring very early morning and mid/late afternoon. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Good to Excellent. Fresh fish arriving in good numbers on the tides; run is building and is peaking for quality fish—quantity peaks in two weeks. Try in tidewater on incoming, high, and outgoing tide. Spoon, spinners, and jigs and drifting/swinging flies work best. Fish condition chrome to dark blush; most bright/silver gray. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Poor to Fair. Some fish starting to show up and will become more consistent next couple of weeks. Try spoons and roe on the tides, flip/swing/drift flies upstream. Fish condition chrome to light blush, most bright. Size 5-9 lbs., up to 12 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Incoming and high tides produce the best action; use small spoons and spinners and flies resembling juvenile salmon, or roe fished on bottom. Size 6-15 in., up to 3 lbs.

OTHER: A silver salmon are present in tidewater; occasional catches of red salmon. Nearby Sixmile Creek is seeing a heavier run of chums that will peak next week.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity decent and improving with warmer/drier weather. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Note: Last day of season is Saturday, July 19. Decent action still; most fish are upstream of Sourdough. Size 12-25 lbs., larger possible. Fish condition bright to dark red/spawning, most dark blush.**Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair. Early run has peaked but some decent pulses of fish are moving through; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Fish condition bright to dark red, most light/medium blush. Size 5-7 lbs., up to 9 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river section in and around canyon/narrows area. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size 8-20 in., up to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8-13 in., up to 18 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are generally low and clarity good to excellent in tributaries. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Deception, and Willow, also Byers and East Fork Chulitna. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size 8-20 in., up to 3-4 lbs. or more.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Montana and Sheep. Size 9-14 in., up to 3 lbs.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or red salmon might be encountered also. Some pinks and chums now being caught from mouth of Willow up to Sheep, first silver reported. Some kings present (closed to fishing).

PORT VALDEZ

Conditions: Water is silty on low tide, clear to greenish at high. Tides are small to medium this weekend (8-12.5 ft.), occurring mid/late morning and late evening.

PINK SALMON: Excellent. Very productive action from shore at Allison Point and beach at Solomon Gulch Creek hatchery on the tides; peak time for bright fish right now and this weekend—fish quantity will peak in two weeks but quality far less. Some tides/days may be slower pending commercial/cost recovery operations in port. Some fish are also showing in Robe River. Spoon and spinners work best; also colorful flies. Fish condition chrome/bright to medium blush; most bright. Size 2-5 lbs., up to 7 lbs. Bag limit 12 fish by emergency order.

OTHER: Small schools of chum salmon reported along breakwater in front of town and could be entering boat harbor; a few reds also present, primarily bound for Lowe River. Dolly Varden may be encountered in port but better at mouth of Robe River.

Updated Thursday, July 10

ROADSIDE FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KENAI REDS; KASILOF REDS; VALDEZ PINKS; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: After ten days of the usual slight lull in overall action around Southcentral, things are rapidly developing as the mid-summer runs of especially red salmon take an early charge on the Kenai and Kasilof, followed by a promising start of pink salmon in Valdez. The peak of some of these runs are likely to begin next week and continue for the next couple of weeks or more. Additionally, chum and silver salmon are also becoming noticeable in an increasing number of locations and should only build in strength through the month and into August.

Resident species like rainbows, Dolly Varden, grayling, and whitefish are displaying some solid action in many rivers and streams throughout the region and—like the salmon runs—will only intensify as the season progresses. While the lake fisheries have slowed in action, which is usual for this time of the season, some very decent fishing may still be found in highland and alpine waters all summer long.

Surf-casters in marine waters are experiencing a slowdown in halibut catches in the shallows but are still managing a few fish in deeper locations around the peninsula, such as Seward and Homer. The sharks and skates and smaller bottomfish, however, are peaking in numbers near shore and will continue to yield a decent crop for the next two months.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate to high levels and slightly greenish-gray silt, depending on weather conditions. Tides are large this weekend (~29 ft.), occurring mid-morning and late evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm through July 13 by regulation; starting July 14 the stream is open all hours.

KING SALMON: Poor. Open to retention through December 31 by regulation this year. Run is slowing down more each passing day but a few decent fish continue to be caught; run usually ends by third week of this month. Roe with a bobber, casting spinners, and flipping yarn flies all work. Try incoming and outgoing tides. Size 6 to 28 lbs., specimens 30-35 lbs. or more possible. Fish condition chrome to dark red; most likely dark now but bright kings known to occur well into August. Bag limit 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

PINK SALMON: Poor to Fair. Some fish arriving on each tide; limits possible if targeted. Low tide in deeper slots also productive. Spoons, spinners, jigs, flies effective. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Fish condition chrome to semi-bright, most bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor. A few fish showing up on the tides; use spinners or roe with a bobber. Action will improve to fair next week, maybe sooner with limits possible. Size 4 to 8 lbs. Fish condition chrome/bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides. Chum salmon possible; occasional catches of reds.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are high; moderate visibility. Opened to king salmon fishing on July 1; use of bait and multiple hooks prohibited—check emergency orders.

KING SALMON: Poor. Majority of fish present are early run kings; expect larger, late-run fish to start arriving next week. Fish condition generally dark red with occasional brighter specimens. Bright and colorful attractors work. Size 15 to 35 lbs. **Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Early run hanging on with latest pulse coming through; fish are spread throughout river. Limit possible. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Fish condition grayish bright/semi-bright to dark blush, most light blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are large this weekend (19.5-20.5 ft.), occurring in early morning and evening. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths through July 15 by regulation; zones open to fishing starting July 16. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Poor. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Size 10 to 15 lbs.; larger specimens possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Ninilchik are producing a few fish. Bag limit 2 fish.

SHARK/SKATE: Good to Excellent. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Size 15 to 30 lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red, pink, and silver salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are large this weekend (9-11 ft.); occurring very early morning and mid-afternoon. Lingcod fishing prohibited by regulation (within bay proper).

RED SALMON: Very Poor. A few stragglers of the early run may be present at Spring Creek beach; a trickle of late-run fish moving through area. Snagging best harvest method; try around peak high tide. Fish condition chrome to dark blush; usually bright/semi-bright. Size 4 to 7 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

PINK SALMON: Poor to Fair. A few fish beginning to show along beaches around the bay. Try mouths of Tonsina and Spruce creeks on incoming tide; also along Lowell Point Road and south beach. Spoons, spinners, flies, jigs work. Fish condition chrome. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

CHUM SALMON: Fair. Some nice fish present in area from Spring Creek Beach to Afognak Beach. Snagging most effective harvest method; also spoons, jigs, and flies. Fish condition chrome to light blush; usually bright/semi-bright. Size 6 to 12 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Check Lowell Point and mouths of clearwater streams draining into bay; Spruce and Tonsina support catches. Use small spoons/flies resembling juvenile salmon. Try incoming and outgoing tides. Size teens to 5-6 lbs.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; Tonsina Creek Beach sometimes productive at peak low tide. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size 10 to 20 lbs., occasionally up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4 to 8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: A few mostly dark hatchery kings may still linger around mouth of Scheffler Creek. Silver salmon on the way; boaters are getting limits in outer bay and a few fish could be arriving around the city in another week or so.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity fair. Tides will be large this weekend (19.5-20.5 ft.); occurring in early morning and evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only. Closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order starting July 10.

OTHER: Some rainbows available, catches of pink salmon possible; first few silver salmon could appear in a week to ten days.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity moderate. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited.

RED SALMON: Fair to Very Good. Late run arriving early and in sizable numbers. Flip and swing/drift flies. Excellent action possible any day, likely by early next week depending on waves of fish coming in. Many anglers starting to limit out in Soldotna and Sterling. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Fish condition chrome/bright; a few blush early-run fish may be present still. Size 5 to 9 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

PINK SALMON: Poor. A trickle of early-run tributary pinks arriving and a few specimens are being caught between tidewater and Soldotna. Use spoons, spinners, flies. Fish condition chrome to semi-bright; most bright. Size 2-4 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Fish range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Lower end of river is starting to fill up with sea-run char returning from Cook Inlet. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size low teens to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Some kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. First few silver salmon could appear in a week to ten days.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Poor. Early run ending, a few late-run fish present. Try from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to dark blush. Size 4 to 8 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Numbers increasing daily and should be very productive in another week or two. Salmon egg imitations are effective, also small spoons, spinners. Size low teens to 6 lbs. or more.

OTHER: Small numbers of round whitefish being caught; first few early-run pink salmon likely present.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. Sanctuary area opened to fishing on July 1 by emergency order.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Mouth of river (sanctuary) offers opportunities, especially early morning. First few late-run fish should be available starting this weekend. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to medium blush. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught, especially in sanctuary; occasional grayling higher up towards the falls.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are large this weekend (17-19 ft.), occurring in very early morning and late afternoon. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

PINK SALMON: Poor. Some fish cruising along beaches of spit on the tides. Cast spoons or small herring; spinners and flies can also work. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

SILVER SALMON: Poor. A few fish bound for the lagoon are moving along shoreline of spit. Try casting spoons, spinners, and small herring on the tides. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 4 to 9 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish in bay area, 6 fish in lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit may yield a few fish; try Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Action is continuing to slow down as fish are leaving area for freshwater. Try small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon. Size teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

HOPE/RESURRECTION CREEK

Conditions: Water levels are high, current swift; clarity fair at best. Recent heavy rain and ongoing snowmelt at headwaters is affecting the stream very negatively and could be a week or likely more before things settle down. Search for salmon anywhere there is deeper water and slower current; fish the tides with fluorescent tackle. Tides are large this weekend (29-30 ft.), occurring in mid-morning and mid/late evening. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

PINK SALMON: Fair to Good. Fresh fish arriving in decent numbers on the tides; run is building and fishing typically peaks for bright specimens starting around the 15th with excellent catches expected by next weekend. Try in tidewater on incoming, high, and outgoing tide using colorful and flashy lures/flies. Spoon, spinners, and jigs and drifting/swinging flies work best. Fish condition chrome to medium blush; most bright. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Incoming and high tides produce the best action; use small spoons and spinners and flies resembling juvenile salmon. Size low teens to 3 lbs., occasionally larger.

OTHER: A few chum and silver salmon are likely present in tidewater; occasional catches of red salmon. Nearby Sixmile Creek usually sees heavier run of chums starting about the 15th.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and dropping; clarity decent and improving with warmer/drier weather. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks prohibited, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Decent action holding on despite emergency order of no bait allowed. Section in Sourdough area and above best bet but fish are scattered throughout river. Size 12 to 25 lbs., larger possible. Fish condition bright to dark red, most medium blush.**Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair. Run has peaked but some decent pulses of fish are moving through; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Fish condition bright to dark red, most light/medium blush. Size 5-7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river section in and around canyon area. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8 to 15 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are generally low and clarity good to excellent. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Deception, and Willow, also Byers and East Fork Chulitna. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size low teens to 3-4 lbs.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Montana and Sheep.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or red salmon might be encountered also. A few pinks and chums now present from mouth of Willow to Sheep and first silver should hit next week. Some kings are present (closed to fishing).

FISH CREEK

Conditions: Water is low; clarity excellent. Tides are large this weekend. Fishing in lower stream is only allowed between 5:00am and 10:00pm by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Run is arriving and anglers have the opportunity to fish for them through July 14 when stream closes to all fishing until second weekend of August. Sight-fish for schools of fish moving upstream between upper tidewater and road crossing. Drift/swing flies. Limits possible after an early morning tide. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 3 to 6 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Upper reaches of stream supports decent catches of trout on flies and small spinners. Size low teens to 3 lbs.

OTHER: A few pink and silver salmon and Dolly Varden may be present in tidewater around mouth of stream.

PORT VALDEZ

Conditions: Water is silty on low tide, clear to greenish at high. Tides are large this weekend (10.5-13 ft.), occurring very early morning and mid/late afternoon.

PINK SALMON: Good. Productive action from shore at primarily Allison Point and beach near hatchery on the tides; run is building and fishing could be excellent sometime next week if trajectory continues. Some tides/days may be slower pending commercial/cost recovery operations in port. Spoon and spinners work best; also flies. Fish condition chrome/bright to light blush; most bright. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

OTHER: A few red and chum salmon and Dolly Varden may be present.

Updated Thursday, July 3

4TH OF JULY WEEKEND FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KASILOF REDS; GULKANA KINGS, GRAYLING; RUSSIAN REDS; EKLUTNA KINGS; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: With the 4th of July Weekend starting, anglers have plenty of options for mainly salmon, trout, char, and grayling as well as several species of marine fish. Although it is well understood that various salmon runs have been more abundant in years past during this time, there are still decent and varied fishing to be experienced both north, south, and east of Anchorage.

With early-run king salmon dwindling in numbers across the region and late runs either closed or heavily restricted, anglers’ attention is now directed elsewhere, specifically to the more abundant red salmon and the newly arriving summer runs of pink, chum, and silver salmon, all of which are making subtle appearances in fisheries across Southcentral. Look specifically to the waters of Kenai Peninsula and Copper Valley to yield the most salmon action this weekend.

Rainbows and grayling are striking in a great many rivers and streams, yet have entered a slow-down in most low-lying lakes, while lakes in alpine and higher elevations are still quite productive. Dolly Varden are becoming more prevalent as sea-run fish are beginning to return from the salt after spending a month or two feeding in the marine environment around the Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound.

Surf-casters in marine waters are reporting good catches of not only smaller bottomfish but shark and skate as well with a few halibut in the mix for good measure. Again, the Kenai Peninsula presents the better action in this genre.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate to high levels and slightly greenish-gray silt, depending on weather conditions. Tides are fairly small this weekend (22-25 ft.), occurring at night and late afternoon and early evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm by regulation.

KING SALMON: Fair. Run is tailing off but some nice fish are still around; likely last decent weekend for kings. Roe with a bobber, casting spinners, and flipping yarn flies all work. Incoming and outgoing tides best. Size 6 to 28 lbs., specimens 30-35 lbs. or more possible. Fish condition chrome to dark blush, most semi-bright. Bag limit 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: Word of a few pinks showing up and silvers are next any tide now, very likely sometime this weekend. Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are high with meltwater due to warmer temperatures; moderate visibility. Opened to king salmon fishing on July 1; bait restrictions are in effect—check emergency orders.

KING SALMON: Fair. Majority of fish present are early run kings; upper river best bet. Expect larger, late-run fish to start arriving in two weeks. Fish condition medium to heavy dark red with occasional brighter specimens. Bright and colorful attractors work. Size 15 to 25 lbs. **Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair. Early run still allowing some catches but action steadily slowing down; fish are spread throughout river. Limit still possible with persistence. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Fish condition grayish bright/semi-bright to medium blush, some dark. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are small to moderate this weekend (14-16 ft.), occurring at night and early/mid afternoon. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Excellent. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Size 15 to 30 lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red and pink salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are small to moderate this weekend (6-9.5 ft.); peak highs in late morning and late evening this weekend.

RED SALMON: Poor. Mouths of Resurrection River and Salmon Creek and Spring Creek Beach are still producing a few fish. Success rates vary considerably depending on individual tide—most tides are very slow, other see a few fish caught; snagging best harvest method. Early run of Bear Lake origin is ending but smaller late runs bound for other locations are starting to arrive. Size 4 to 6 lbs. Fish condition chrome to light blush. Bag limit 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Check mouths of clearwater streams draining into bay; Spruce, and Tonsina are producing. Use small spoons/flies resembling juvenile salmon. Try incoming and outgoing tides. Size teens to 5-6 lbs.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size 10 to 20 lbs., occasionally up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4 to 8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Some chums along with a few pinks are starting to show up. A few hatchery kings are still being encountered at mouth of Scheffler Creek.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity fair. Tides will be small this weekend (14-16 ft.); peaking at night and early/mid afternoon. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Poor. A few fish are being caught, mainly off the bank; the channel between the island and mainland just below mouth of Crooked Creek is a popular and reliable spot. Swing/drift flies. Size 6 to 25 lbs. Fish condition bright to dark red, most medium/heavy blush. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit 1 hatchery fish starting July 1.

RED SALMON: Good to Excellent. Fish are being caught from shore and many anglers are limiting out; actual success varies by tide and day. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Size 4 to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Sea-run char are schooling in lower tidewater holes and starting to move upstream; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows available, occasional catches of pink salmon.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity low to moderate. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Early run has almost finished, late run starting. Flip and swing/drift flies. Productivity will increase substantially next week. Fish condition chrome to very light blush, most chrome. Size 5 to 9 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Fish range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

OTHER: Dolly Varden moving into lower end of river, should be productive very shortly. Some kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order, first few pinks likely present.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Early run is ending, a few late-run fish should be coming through. Try from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to medium blush. Size 4 to 8 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Numbers of Dolly Varden are increasing along with round whitefish.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. Sanctuary area opened to fishing by emergency order.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Mouth of river (sanctuary) offers best opportunities, especially early morning; limits possible. Flip and swing/drift flies. Fish condition bright to medium blush, most gray/semi-bright. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; best action in stretch of water from campground to sanctuary using forage and flesh pattern flies best, also try dry flies and beads. Size range from teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught; occasional grayling.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are high this weekend (17.5-19.5 ft.) and will occur in early morning and early evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Poor. A few fresh fish still coming in on the tides but most fish were removed from Dudiak Lagoon during opening of snag fishery; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing tide. Salmon roe and spinners work, also flies. Run is ending. Fish condition chrome/bright to dark/red. Size 6 to 20 lbs. Bag limit 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit yielding a few fish; try Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Action is continuing to subside as fish are leaving area for freshwater. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work. Size teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Red salmon are show in numbers along the spit and the lagoon; some pinks reportedly present along beaches of spit. First silver salmon of season caught in lagoon a few days ago and run will be building.

GULKANA RIVER

KING SALMON: Fair. Decent action holding on despite emergency order of no bait allowed. Section in Sourdough area best bet but fish are scattered throughout river. Size 12 to 25 lbs., larger possible. Fish condition bright to dark blush, most light blush.**Catch-and-release only by emergency order.**

RED SALMON: Fair. Run has peaked; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Fish condition bright to dark red, most light blush. Size 5-7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river sections. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8 to 15 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low and clarity good to excellent. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Deception, and Willow, also Byers and East Fork Chulitna. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are found throughout drainage; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Willow, and Deception, and Middle Fork Chulitna using flies and small spinners. Size 8 to 14 in.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Montana and Sheep.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or red salmon might be encountered also. First few pinks and chums should be arriving. Some kings are present (closed to fishing).

EKLUTNA TAILRACE

Conditions: Water is high and greenish silty.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Hatchery fish arriving in decent numbers and being caught throughout tailrace. Best fishing during low light hours (late evening to very early morning), slower midday. Use salmon roe sitting on bottom or drifted with bobber; spoons, spinners, flies also work. Fish condition bright to dark red, most medium/dark blush. Size 6 to 25 lbs. Bag limit 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: A few red salmon may start showing soon, first silvers due next week. Dolly Varden will hit bait fished on bottom at Knik confluence.

PORT VALDEZ

Conditions: Water is silty on low tide, clear to greenish at high. Tides are small to moderate this weekend, peaking late morning and late evening (7.5-11 ft.).

PINK SALMON: Fair. Anglers are catching some fish at Allison Point and beach near hatchery on the tides; run is building. Spoon and spinners work well. Fish condition chrome/bright. Size 2 to 5 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish.

BOTTOMFISH: Fair to Good. Dropping bait and small jigs at city dock is producing a variety of smaller codfish, sablefish, an d flounder/sole.

OTHER: A few red and chum salmon may be present.

Updated Friday, June 27

ROADSIDE ANGLER FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KASILOF REDS; GULKANA KINGS, GRAYLING; RUSSIAN REDS; KLUTINA REDS; COOK INLET SHARK, SKATE; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: There are still some opportunities for king salmon in the region but the hatchery runs (Ship, Dudiak, Kasilof) are starting to show wear and the wild early runs (Gulkana) still open to fishing are hanging on; what will happen with the late runs (Klutina, Tonsina) in July is still a question mark until abundance and sustainability can be determined. Likewise, the early runs of red salmon (Upper Kenai, Russian, Klutina) are just past the peak and a few have slowed significantly (Seward/Resurrection Bay); the late runs are showing great promise right now (such as the Kasilof) and predicted to be some of the best on record (Kenai). A few pinks and chums are now confirmed to be present in sparse numbers in roadside fisheries but set to increase in abundance within the next ten days. This is also the time of season when the first early runs of silvers begin to arrive.

Trout, char, and grayling are very active in a great many rivers and streams but the action has slowed considerably in lakes and ponds, except a few of the recently stocked locations and waters at higher and cooler elevations.

The halibut fisheries have entered the mid-summer lull but some fish can still be had around the peninsula, yet the shark and skate opportunities are climbing as more fish arrive in coastal waters. Smaller bottomfish are also at peak abundance in shallow, inshore waters.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate to high levels and slightly greenish-gray silt, depending on weather conditions. Tides are high this weekend and into early next week (27-30 ft.), occurring in mid/late morning and late evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm by regulation.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Every tide still producing a slug of nice fish. Roe with a bobber, casting spinners, and flipping yarn flies all work. Incoming and outgoing tides best. Size 10 to 28 lbs., specimens 30-35 lbs. or more possible. Condition range from chrome to medium blush, most grayish bright/semi-bright. Bag limit 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides. First pink, chum, and silver due any day.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are high with meltwater due to warmer temperatures; moderate visibility. Closed to king salmon fishing through June 30.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Season opens Tuesday, July 1. Mainly early run kings expected present; upper river best bet. Condition of fish typically light to heavy blush with occasional brighter specimens. Attractor/bait combos work great. Bag/seasonal limit 1 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Early run has peaked; fish are spread throughout river. Limit still possible with persistence. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Condition range grayish bright/semi-bright, some blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

OTHER: A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Tides are high this weekend (17-20 ft.), occurring in early morning and early/mid evening. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Size 10 to 15 lbs.; larger specimens to 50+ lbs. possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Ninilchik are producing a few fish. Bag limit 2 fish.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Excellent. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Size 15 to 30 lbs., skates up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; king salmon (closed) and red salmon may be encountered.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are moderate to high this weekend (9 to 11.5 ft.); peak highs in very early morning and late afternoon this weekend.

KING SALMON: Poor. The mouth of Scheffler Creek is yielding a few hatchery kings on the tides. Fish may be encountered anywhere clearwater streams enter the bay. Size 6 to 20 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to medium blush. Bag limit is 2 fish.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Mouths of Resurrection River and Salmon Creek and Spring Creek Beach are producing a few fish. Success rates vary considerably depending on individual tide—some tides are dead, other see some fish caught, occasional limits; snagging best harvest method. Early run of Bear Lake origin has peaked but smaller late runs bound for other locations will be arriving. Size 4 to 6 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome to light gray. Bag limit 6 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size 4 to 8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: A few reds being caught in Salmon Creek at Nash Road crossing when water conditions are favorable. Expect a few pinks and chums to be present throughout bay.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity fair. Tides will be large this weekend (19-21.5 ft.); peaking morning and early evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Poor to Fair. Some fish are being caught from boats and off the bank; the Crooked Creek area is a popular and reliable spot from shore an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Swing/drift flies and attractors or use plugs. Size 6 to 25 lbs. Condition of fish chrome to red, most light/medium blush. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit 2 hatchery fish through June 30, 1 hatchery fish starting July 1.

RED SALMON: Good. Fish are being caught from shore and many anglers are limiting out; actual success varies by tide and day. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Size 4 to 6 lbs. Bag limit 6 fish by emergency order.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Sea-run char are schooling in lower tidewater holes until July and many have left river for marine feeding grounds; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows available, rare steelhead trout.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately high and rising; clarity low to moderate. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RED SALMON: Poor. Early run nearly completed, late run just getting started. Flip and swing/drift flies. Productivity will increase about second week of July. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Fish range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

OTHER: A few spawned-out steelhead trout present; Dolly Varden will move into river very shortly. Some kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order, first few pinks expected any day.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair. Early run has peaked; occasional limits possible with persistence. Try area around Sportsman’s Landing and Russian River for best chances. Flip and swing/drift flies. Condition of fish bright to light blush, most gray/semi-bright. Size 5 to 7 lbs. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught along with round whitefish.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Early run arriving; try at first light in early morning, scouting deeper holes and runs for schools of fish. Flip and swing/drift flies. Run appears to be small this season. Limits possible in morning, much slower midday. Condition of fish bright to light blush, most gray/semi-bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught; occasional grayling.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Tides are high this weekend (17.5-19.5 ft.) and will occur in early morning and early evening. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Poor to Fair. A few fresh fish still coming in on the tides but most are holdovers with lockjaw; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming and early morning. Salmon roe and spinners work, also flies. Run has peaked and slowing down. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to medium dark/red, most semi-bright/light blush. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit productive; try Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Action is subsiding as fish have started leaving area for freshwater. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work. Size teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Red salmon are starting to show in numbers along the spit and other parts of the bay; occasional catches in lagoon. A few pinks should be present.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and dropping; clarity decent and improving with warmer/drier weather. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Decent action holding on despite emergency order of no bait allowed. Section from Sailors Pit to Sourdough and beyond best bet. Size 12 to 25 lbs., larger possible. Condition of fish bright to dark blush, most semi-bright/light blush. Bag/seasonal limit 1 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair. Run may have peaked; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Try from Sourdough area on upstream. Drift/swing flies. Size 5-7 lbs. Condition of fish bright to medium blush, most gray. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches had in upper river sections. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Excellent. Fish are distributed throughout the system; try upper stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size 8 to 15 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels in tributaries are dropping after recent rains; good to excellent visibility prevails soon. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing when water conditions allow. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Deception, and Willow, also Byers and East Fork Chulitna. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size teens to 3-4 lbs.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Montana and Sheep.

EKLUTNA TAILRACE

Conditions: Water is high and greenish silty.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Hatchery fish arriving in decent numbers and being caught throughout tailrace. Best fishing during low light hours (late evening to very early morning), slower midday. Use salmon roe sitting on bottom or drifted with bobber; spoons, spinners, flies also work. Condition of fish is bright to medium red, most light blush. Size 6 to 25 lbs. Bag limit 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: A few red salmon may start showing soon, first silvers in two weeks. Dolly Varden will hit bait fished on bottom at Knik confluence.

Updated Thursday, June 19

ROADSIDE ANGLER FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: SHIP KINGS; KLUTINA REDS; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; GULKANA KINGS, GRAYLING; KASILOF REDS; COOK INLET SHARK, SKATE; RUSSIAN REDS; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: With the solstice weekend upon us, anglers can look forward to some warmer days, short nights, and good and varied fishing to come the next several weeks. Despite recent emergency orders further limiting a few of our king salmon fisheries, anglers seeking this species still have opportunities to catch some sizable personal trophies just as the early runs of red salmon are moving into rivers and streams on the Kenai Peninsula and in the Copper Valley. And adding to the menu shortly, the first few pink and chum salmon will be a possibility in regional marine waters as well as some of the associated tidewater creeks.

Trout, char, and grayling are still active in many flowing waters and getting better in others, just as the lake fisheries are starting to slow down as the shallow waters are warming and fish seek out cooler depths.

The marine fisheries targeting halibut, cod, shark, skate, and the myriad of other bottomfish continue to produce around the Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound, yet the hectic spring halibut fling has died down but a much more modest opportunity will still be available for the species through the summer months. Skates, sharks, and a variety of bottomfish will support good to excellent opportunities now and on into the fall months.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate levels and generally clear to slightly greenish-gray silt, depending on weather conditions. Tides are moderate to high this weekend and into next week (25-31 ft.), occurring in early morning and late afternoon/early evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm by regulation.

KING SALMON: Good. Every tide is seeing a slew of fish to the cleaning tables and scale. Roe with a bobber, casting spinners, and flipping yarn flies all work. Incoming and outgoing tides best. Size range is 10 to 26 lbs., specimens in excess of 30-35 lbs. or more possible. Condition of fish are mainly chrome and bright, a few hint of blush. Bag limit is 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising with onset of warmer temperatures; clarity fair/silty. Closed to king salmon fishing until July 1 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Good. Early run is peaking and limits are common; fish are spread throughout river. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size range 5 to 7 lbs. Condition of fish are mainly bright, a few hint of blush. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size range teens to 3-4 lbs.

OTHER: Early-run king salmon are present but closed to fishing. A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Peak high tides this weekend will be in middle of night/very early morning and early/mid afternoon. Tides will be 16 to 20 ft.; up to 22 ft. next week. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Average 10 to 15 lbs.; larger specimens to 50+ lbs. possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Kenai Beach are producing a few fish. Bag limit is 2 fish.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Very Good. Beaches from Ninilchik to Kenai Beach are producing. Most fish are 15 to 30 lbs., skates up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: An occasional Pacific cod possible, Dolly Varden present; early-run king salmon (closed) and red salmon may be encountered.

NINILCHIK RIVER

Conditions: Opened to fishing daily last Monday, June 16, but will close again to all fishing on Monday, June 23, by new emergency order due to low numbers of wild kings present. Only hatchery fish may be retained, all wild fish must be released. Other emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Very early mornings will yield fish in harbor area as well as on the tides; upstreams locations usually not as consistent at this time. Try one to three hours after high tide or at first light using spoons and spinners. Catch ratio of hatchery vs. wild fish is expected to be around 2:1; many jacks present. Recent catches averaged 6 to 15 lbs., up to 25 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome to blush, most bright. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

OTHER: An occasional spawned-out steelhead (kelt) may still be present but outmigration is almost complete. A few Dolly Varden and rainbow trout may be present. Occasional catches of early-run red salmon possible in harbor area on the tides.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Tides are moderate to high this weekend (7.5-11.5 ft.) and through next week (8.5-12.5); peak highs in late morning and late evening this weekend.

KING SALMON: Poor. The mouth of Scheffler Creek is yielding a few hatchery kings on the tides. Fish may be encountered anywhere clearwater streams enter the bay. Size range 6 to 20 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to medium blush. Bag limit is 2 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Mouths of Resurrection River and Spring Creek and Spring Creek Beach are popular spots. Success rates vary considerably depending on individual tide—some tides are near dead, other see many anglers catching limits; snagging best harvest method. Run has likely peaked. Size range 4 to 6 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome to light gray. Bag limit is 6 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. Check mouths of clearwater streams draining into bay; Lowell, Spruce, Tonsina are all producing. Use small spoons/flies resembling juvenile salmon. Try incoming and outgoing tides.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size range 10 to 20 lbs., occasionally up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size range 4 to 8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

BOTTOMFISH: Good. Best spots along Lowell Point Road and off Lowell Point beach for pollock, flounder, and a few rockfish; occasional catches of shark, skate. Herring or squid bait best; smaller jigs work well at times. Bag limit varies according to species (none for pollock, flounder, sole, greenling, sculpin); check regulations.

OTHER: Some reds are being caught in Salmon Creek at Nash Road crossing when water conditions are favorable. Expect first catches of pinks and chums any day now in the bay. The hooligan fishery has finished by regulation.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity fair. High tides will be moderately high this weekend (16-20 ft.), up to 22.5 ft. next week; peaks this weekend will be in middle of night/very early morning and early/mid afternoon. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Fish are being caught from boats and off the bank; the Crooked Creek area is a popular and reliable spot from shore an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Swing/drift flies and attractors or use plugs. Current size range is 6 to 25 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome to dark blush, most bright/semi-bright. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

RED SALMON: Good. Fish are being caught from shore and many anglers are limiting out; actual success varies by the tide and day. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Flip and swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Current size range is 4 to 6 lbs. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Sea-run char are schooling in lower tidewater holes until July and many have left river for marine feeding grounds; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows available; an occasional steelhead trout may be caught near Crooked Creek.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity generally good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RED SALMON: Fair. Early run is moving through and some fish are being taken from shore in the Soldotna and Sterling areas; try Swiftwater and Moose Meadows in Soldotna and around Moose River mouth and Bing’s Landing in Sterling for best chances. Flip and swing/drift flies. Productivity will drop off next week until late run arrives in mid-July. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Fish range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

OTHER: A few spawned-out steelhead trout and Dolly Varden present. Some early-run kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. The hooligan fishery has finished by regulation.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high and rising; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. River opened to fishing on June 11.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Peak of early run passing through; limits possible. Try area from Sportsman’s Landing to Jims’ Landing for best chances. Flip and swing/drift flies. Condition of fish is mainly bright to light gray. Bag limit 3 fish.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught along with round whitefish.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. River opened to fishing on June 11.

RED SALMON: Good. Early run arriving; try at first light in early morning, scouting deeper holes and runs for schools of fish. Flip and swing/drift flies. Peak of early run is expected starting this weekend/early next week. Limits possible in morning, slower midday. Condition of fish is bright to light gray. Bag limit is 3 fish.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught; occasional grayling.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Peak high tides this weekend will occur in middle of night and late morning/early afternoon, 15-19 ft.; up to 21 ft. next week. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Fair. Kings are arriving on the tides at the Dudiak Lagoon and a fair number are being landed by anglers on each tide; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming and early morning. Herring and salmon roe are perfect bait options, spinners and flies also work. Run is peaking. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to dark blush. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit productive; Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall best. Action is subsiding as fish have started leaving area for freshwater. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work best. Size teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size range 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Red salmon are starting to show in small numbers along the spit and other parts of the bay; occasional catches in lagoon. First few pinks will arrive soon.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity decent and improving with warmer temperatures and no rain. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Very decent action the last ten days, run is starting to peak but emergency order of no bait allowed will slow success down. Section from highway bridge upstream to Sailors Pit producing most catches but can be caught up to Sourdough and beyond. Size range 12 to 25 lbs., larger possible. Condition of fish bright to light blush, most semi-bright. Bag limit 1 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair. Run is building and likely to start peaking next week; best fishing occurs when water is low and clear. Most of run situated downstream of Sourdough to river mouth. Drift/swing flies. Size range 5-7 lbs. Condition of fish bright to light blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Best catches being had in middle to upper river sections. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size range teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good to Excellent. Fish are found distributed throughout the system and will continue to improve as more fish arrive and river drops and clears; try upper and middle stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size range 8 to 15 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels in tributaries are generally moderate to low and clarity good to excellent. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing as water conditions are ideal. Fish are foremost being caught in middle and upper sections of tributaries; Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, and Willow best. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Fish are found throughout drainage; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Little Willow, Willow, and Deception using flies and small spinners.

DOLLY VARDEN: Poor to Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system; try the mouths of Montana and Sheep.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or early-run red salmon might be encountered also. Some kings are arriving (closed to fishing). The hooligan fishery has ended by regulation.

Updated Thursday, June 12

ROADSIDE ANGLER FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: SEWARD REDS; SHIP KINGS; KLUTINA REDS; NINILCHIK KINGS; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; GULKANA KINGS; COOK INLET SHARK, SKATE; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: Summer has finally hit the Southcentral region with warm temperatures and more stable weather conditions and along with it some hot action for multiple species, foremost red salmon but almost surprisingly also kings(!), with both stocked and a few wild runs supporting good opportunities presently. And pike and lake trout as well as all kinds of resident species in local lakes have been on fire the past week or two and continue to produce high success rates until waters warm up.

Although the opening bell on the Upper Kenai and Russian Rivers on June 11 was largely subdued, the coastal red salmon fisheries of Seward/Resurrection Bay and Kasilof River, in addition to inland Klutina River, are currently very productive, with Seward really being a true hot spot the past several days with 6-fish limits commonplace. Not to be outdone, Ship Creek in downtown Anchorage is experiencing one of the best king salmon seasons in years with some very respectful catches being made right now (and big fish, too!); the Ninilchik River on the peninsula is another location that has been yielding a decent number of kings the last few weekends and will reopen to daily fishing on Monday, June 16, and anticipates what could be the best opportunity of the year there as hatchery fish appear to be plentiful. The Gulkana River is reporting some very decent numbers of kings being landed, especially for this early in the season, and could be set for a successful season going forward.

Lakes and streams in the region are full of activity, with the clearwater tributaries of Susitna and Copper Rivers providing a healthy selection of trout, char, grayling, and whitefish. Both grayling and rainbows are coming off the spawn and feeding voraciously in flowing and still waters, with some hefty pike and lake trout (as well as humpback whitefish) being targeted by anglers in lake systems. With the possible exception of a few alpine lakes at higher elevations, such as Summit Lake (Copper Valley), all waters are ice free and arguably yielding some of the best angling of the year.

Marine fisheries targeting halibut, cod, shark, skate, and the myriad of other bottomfish are a mixed bag from now on; in Cook Inlet, some halibut have been caught the past week but the action has been gradually subsiding as many fish are moving away from the surf into slightly deeper (but still relatively shallow) water. However, some halibut will still be available from shore throughout the summer in the inlet as well as in Homer and Seward, yet shark and skate and all smaller bottomfish are becoming more abundant as the season progresses.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate levels and generally clear to slightly greenish silt—likely to turn more color/silty with warmer temperatures. Tides are moderate this weekend (27-28 ft.), occurring in mid/late morning and evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm by regulation.

KING SALMON: Good. Anglers are bringing in very decent numbers of fish on virtually every tide. Roe with a bobber, casting spinners, and flipping yarn flies all work. Incoming and outgoing tides best. Size range is 8 to 25 lbs., specimens to around 30 lbs. or more possible. Condition of fish are mainly chrome and bright, a few hint of blush. Bag limit is 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: Sea-run Dolly Varden being caught near mouth on bait fished on bottom during high tides.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising with onset of warmer temperatures; clarity fair/silty. Closed to king salmon fishing until July 1 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Good. Run is building and limits are common; early run expected to start peaking next week. No big crowds of anglers yet. Flipping and drifting yarn flies best. Size range 5 to 7 lbs. Condition of fish are mainly bright, a few hint of blush/gray. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size range teens to 3-4 lbs.

OTHER: Early-run king salmon are present but closed to fishing. A few rainbow trout and round whitefish possible.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Peak high tides this weekend will be in early morning and late afternoon. Tides will be moderate into next week, with 17- to 20-foot tides, which is preferred by many anglers due to less current. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Average 10 to 20 lbs.; larger specimens to 50+ lbs. possible. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Kenai are producing a few fish, Clam Gulch/Cohoe area active; limit possible. Bag limit is 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Poor. Beaches between Anchor Point and Cohoe have seen a few catches recently. Size range 4 to 8 lbs., up to 10 lbs. No bag/size limit.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Very Good. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Nikiski are producing. Most fish are 15 to 30 lbs., skates up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: Dolly Varden present; early-run red salmon may be encountered.

NINILCHIK RIVER

Conditions: Opens to fishing daily starting Monday, June 16; king salmon fishing allowed but only hatchery fish may be retained, all wild fish must be released. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Very early Monday morning will yield peak fishing upstream of highway crossing to River Mile 2. Boat harbor will produce catches following each tide; try one to three hours after high tide or at first light using spoons and spinners. Catch ratio of hatchery vs. wild fish is expected to be 3:1; many jacks present. Recent catches averaged 6 to 15 lbs., up to 25 lbs. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

OTHER: Spawned-out steelhead (kelts) may still be present but numbers will subside through the month. A few Dolly Varden and rainbow trout may be present. Occasional catches of early-run red salmon possible in harbor area on the tides.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; glacial green to very silty at head of bay. Moderate tides this weekend and through next week; peak highs in early morning and mid/late afternoon.

KING SALMON: Poor. The mouth of Scheffler Creek is yielding a few nice hatchery kings (and reds, too) on the tides. Fish may be encountered anywhere clearwater streams enter the bay. Size range 6 to 20 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to very light blush. Bag limit is 2 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair to Excellent. Mouths of Resurrection River and Spring Creek top spots, also Spring Creek Beach. Success rates vary considerably depending on individual tide and coinciding commercial fishing efforts at head of bay. Many anglers report catching limits on the tides; snagging best harvest method. Run is peaking and expected to yield great action for another week or two. Size range 4 to 6 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome/bright. Bag limit is 6 fish.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size range 10 to 20 lbs., occasionally up to 50+ lbs. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size range 4 to 8 lbs., up to 15 lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: A few hooligan are still trickling into Salmon Creek and Resurrection River but runs are just about done; season ends June 15 in freshwater, already closed in saltwater as of June 1.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity fair. High tides will be moderately high this weekend and into next week; peaks this weekend will be in early morning and late afternoon. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Fish are being caught from boats and off the bank, the Crooked Creek area is a popular and reliable spot from shore an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Swing/drift flies and attractors or use plugs. Current size range is 6 to 25 lbs. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to light blush. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Early-run fish are being caught from shore and success is improving; anglers are starting to realize limits. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Current size range is 4 to 6 lbs. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Sea-run char are schooling in lower tidewater holes until July and many have left river for marine feeding grounds; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows available; an occasional steelhead trout may be caught near Crooked Creek.

KENAI RIVER, LOWER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity generally good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RED SALMON: Fair. First run arriving and building in numbers and some fish are taken from shore in the Soldotna and Sterling areas; try Swiftwater and Moose Meadows in Soldotna and around Moose River mouth and Bing’s Landing in Sterling for best chances. Swing/drift flies. Peak of early run is passing through lower river now. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Can be decent in some spots, especially in the “middle” river stretch between Skilak Lake outlet and Bing’s Landing. Fish are scattered throughout drainage. Fish range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

OTHER: A few steelhead trout and Dolly Varden present. Some early-run kings moving through river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order. The hooligan run is almost done; season ends June 15.

KENAI RIVER, UPPER

Conditions: Water levels are high and rising; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. River opened to fishing on June 11.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. First run arriving and building in numbers; try below ferry crossing for best chances. Swing/drift flies. Peak of early run is expected in another week. Condition of fish is bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; better stretch last few days since opener has been from Sportsman’s Landing to Skilak Lake inlet. Forage pattern flies best, also try dry flies. Size range from teens to 5-6 lbs., sometimes much larger.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught along with round whitefish.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity excellent. Closed to king salmon fishing by regulation. River opened to fishing on June 11.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. First run arriving and building in numbers; try at first light in early morning, scouting deeper holes and runs for small schools of fish. Swing/drift flies. Peak of early run is expected in another ten days. Limits possible in morning, slower midday. Condition of fish is bright. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair to Good. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; better action in stretch of water from campground to sanctuary. Forage and flesh pattern flies best, also try dry flies and beads. Size range from teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally much larger.

OTHER: Some Dolly Varden being caught; occasional grayling.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Fair. Kings are arriving on the tides at the Dudiak Lagoon and some are being landed by anglers on each tide; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming and early morning. Herring and salmon roe are perfect bait options, spinners also work. Run is peaking. Condition of fish is chrome/bright to light blush. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. The incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit are usually most productive but fish may be taken along most areas, including Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Action will begin to slow soon as fish begin leaving area. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work best. Size teens to 3-4 lbs., occasionally larger.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size range 4 to 10 lbs., up to 15+ lbs. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Rare catches of early-run red salmon around the spit and outside of the lagoon.

GULKANA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate; clarity fair and improving with warmer temperatures and no rain.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Relatively strong and early appearance of fish in the lower river, mostly downstream of Sourdough. Fish are being caught from shore, some rafters are reporting excellent success. Size range 12 to 25 lbs., larger possible. Condition of fish bright to light blush. Bag limit 1 fish.

RED SALMON: Fair. Action will improve as early run arrives in force and river drops and clears; peak expected in ten days. Most of run situated downstream of Sourdough to river mouth. Drift/swing flies. Size range 5-7 lbs. Condition of fish bright to very light blush. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Better catches being had in middle to upper river sections. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Size range teens to 3-4 lbs.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Fish are found distributed throughout the system and will improve as additional fish arrive from spawning locations and river drops and clear; try upper and middle stretches for best action using flies and small spinners. Size range 8 to 15 in.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels in tributaries are generally moderate and clarity good to excellent. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing as water conditions are usually ideal. Fish are being caught in lower and middle sections; also productive in upper parts of larger tributaries. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Catch-and-release only through June 15.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Fish are found distributed throughout the system; try Montana, Goose, Sheep, Kashwitna, Little Willow, and Willow using flies and small spinners.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Fish may be found anywhere within the system but some of the more successful catches generally come from the mouths of Talkeetna, Montana, Sheep, and Kashwitna this time of season.

Updated Thursday, June 5

ROADSIDE ANGLER FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: KLUTINA REDS; NINILCHIK KINGS; SEWARD REDS; SHIP KINGS; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; COOK INLET HALIBUT, SHARK, SKATE; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: Despite unseasonably cool, windy, and wet weather in the region the past week that often impacted regional fisheries negatively, things are steadily improving not only weather-wise but the number of locations now receiving steady flows of salmon, productive fishing for trout, char, pike, landlocked salmon in lakes and streams, as well as opportunities for marine species.

King and red salmon have mixed reports of success (or lack thereof) this past week. While kings are continuing to arrive in several coastal and inland fisheries, it is no surprise that numbers are down yet again this season; however, the hatchery-supported waters—such as Ship, Ninilchik, Dudiak, Eklutna, and Kasilof—are yielding some promising action despite the obvious downward trend in wild populations. The only viable place for wild freshwater kings is in the Copper Valley, where fish are just starting to show up in the Gulkana. Red salmon opportunities are definitely a bit more prolific, with sizable early runs entering the Kenai, Kasilof, and Klutina and ramping up in the Gulkana, too. The Bear Lake reds at the head of Resurrection Bay started early with some decent action but quickly folded due to lack of new fish but now improving again. Yet the most anticipated fisheries in all of Southcentral are about to open next week, Wednesday, June 11, as the Russian and Upper Kenai are set to kick off the red salmon and rainbow trout season and early reports indicate fish are incoming.

Lakes and streams in the region support great angling right now, with the streams in Susitna Valley being especially good for rainbows and grayling, and there are mediocre chances for whitefish, also. The Copper Valley supports good action for grayling overall with humpback whitefish and lake trout aggressively hitting offerings in a few larger lakes. Pike are present and active in “wild” waters within the Matanuska Valley/lower Susitna Valley area. Stocked lakes throughout Southcentral have received a fresh supply of landlocked salmon, trout, char, and grayling and the action good to excellent.

The saltwater locations for halibut, cod, skate, and shark are yielding some decent but often spotty fishing over the past week; halibut come easy in a few spots but absent in others—the main spring “run” may soon come to an end, at least along the beaches of Cook Inlet. But there will still be fish to be had all summer long there and in Seward as well all summer long. As for other bottomfish species, excellent opportunities persist for the next few months.

Hot Spots of the Week:

SHIP CREEK

Conditions: Stream is flowing at moderate levels and generally clear to slightly greenish silt. Tides are moderate to high this weekend, occurring in mid/late morning and evening. Note: Fishing is only allowed between 6:00am and 11:00pm by regulation.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Each tide is yielding a decent crop of fish and there are larger catches now being reported. A mix of offerings are effective, from floating roe with a bobber to tossing spinners to drifting/swinging yarn flies. Incoming and outgoing tides best. Size range is 6 to 20 pounds, with most in the teens—specimens to 25-30 pounds possible. Bag limit is 1 fish 20 inches or longer; 10 fish less than 20 inches.

OTHER: There is an increasing number of sea-run Dolly Varden showing up on the tides and mouth of creek.

KLUTINA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderately low and rising with onset of warmer temperatures; clarity fair/silty. Closed to king salmon fishing until July 1 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Fair to Good. Fish started appearing last weekend; run is rapidly building. Not a big crowd of anglers here just yet but the group present are doing well with some catching their limits flipping and drifting yarn flies. Size range 5 to 7 pounds. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair to Good. The outlet of Klutina Lake is providing some decent catches on lures and flies. Size range teens to 3-4 pounds.

OTHER: Early-run king salmon are starting but closed to fishing. A few rainbow trout and round whitefish are present.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Peak high tides this weekend will be in mid-afternoon and middle of night/very early morning. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. Tides will be moderate to high into next week, with 15 to 19 foot tides dominating, which is preferred by many anglers due to less current. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Fair to Good. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Average 10 to 20 pounds; larger specimens to 50+ pounds a possibility. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Kenai are producing, Clam Gulch/Cohoe area active; limits possible. Bag limit is 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Poor to Fair. Try beaches between Anchor Point and Ninilchik. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 10 pounds. No bag/size limit.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Very Good. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Nikiski are producing. Most fish are 15 to 30 pounds, skates up to 50+ pounds. Bag limit for spiny dogfish is 5 fish; skate no bag/size limit.

OTHER: Dolly Varden present; early-run red salmon may be encountered.

NINILCHIK RIVER

Conditions: Weekend-Only Fishery (including Mondays); third and final opener coming up (6/7-9). Water is relatively low and clear, good visibility. Last weekend opener was poor on Saturday due to high and murky water from rain day before, improved on Sunday and Monday as water dropped and cleared; anglers were catching limits of kings upstream of highway. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair to Good. Very early Saturday morning typically provides best opportunities from highway crossing on upstream to river mile 2. Ratio of wild fish to hatchery is approximately 50/50; many jacks present. Boat harbor will produce most consistent catches throughout the opener; try one to three hours after high tide or at first light using spoons and spinners. Recent catches averaged 6 to 15 pounds, up to 25 pounds. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

OTHER: Spawned-out steelhead (kelts) linger and being caught and released. A few Dolly Varden and rainbow trout may be present. Occasional catches of early-run red salmon possible in harbor area on the tides.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; murky to very silty at head of bay. Moderate tides this weekend and larger through next week.

RED SALMON: Poor to Good. Success rates can vary considerably depending on individual tide and coinciding commercial fishing efforts at head of bay but has been slow and inconsistent this past week. Some anglers report picking up a few fish on the tides and a few are limiting out; snagging best harvest method. Run typically peaks the second week of June and could improve drastically any day now. Bag limit is 6 fish.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size range 10 to 20 pounds, occasionally up to 50+ pounds. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 15 pounds. No bag/size limit.

HOOLIGAN: Poor. Small concentrations of fish can be located in middle sections of Resurrection River, Japanese Creek, and Salmon Creek; appears to be a small run again this year. No catch restrictions. Season ends June 15 in freshwaters.

OTHER: A few hatchery king salmon (and some reds) arriving at mouth of Scheffler Creek; angler success slow for kings but should improve to be fishable starting next week.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity fair. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Poor. Some kings caught from boats in or near tidewater; a few fish landed off the bank but action is noticeably picking up. The Crooked Creek area is a popular and reliable spot; try an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Swing/drift flies and attractors or use plugs. Current size range is 6 to 25 pounds. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Early-run fish are being caught in small numbers daily from shore and success is getting better; the bigger tides coming up should produce a few limits. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Current size range is 4 to 6 pounds. Bag limit is 3 fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Sea-run char are schooling in lower tidewater holes until July and many have left river for marine feeding grounds; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows available; an occasional steelhead trout may be caught near Crooked Creek.

KENAI RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are moderate and rising; clarity generally good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed. All of upper river and middle river from 1 mile above Lower Killey River confluence to Skilak Lake closed to fishing through June 10 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. First run arriving and building in numbers and some fish are now taken regularly by anglers, especially in the lower drainage. Try Swiftwater and Moose Meadows in Soldotna and around Moose River mouth and Bing’s Landing in Sterling for best chances. Swing/drift flies. Peak of early run expected second week of June. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair. Can be decent in some spots, very slow in others depending on day and fish movements. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; occasional catches of large spawners.

HOOLIGAN: Poor. Numbers of fish entering from inlet has dropped off substantially and many fish are starting to spawn and die off; look for fish traveling close to shore—use dip net. No catch restrictions; season ends on June 15.

OTHER: A few steelhead trout and Dolly Varden present. Some early-run kings showing in lower end of river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Poor. Some kings are arriving on the tides at the Dudiak Lagoon and a few are being landed by anglers on each tide; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming and early morning. Herring and salmon roe are perfect bait options, and spinners work also. Run is about a week away from peaking. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. The incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit are usually most productive but fish may be taken along most areas, including Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work best.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size range 4 to 10 pounds, up to 15+ pounds. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Rare catches of early-run red salmon around the spit and outside of the lagoon.

SUSITNA RIVER

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Productive fishing these days as water conditions are usually ideal. Fish are being caught at mouths of tributaries as well as in lower and middle sections; also productive in upper parts of larger tributaries. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Catch-and-release only through June 15.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. Fish are found distributed throughout the system; try the lower and middle reaches of Montana, Goose, Sheep, Kashwitna, Little Willow, and Willow using flies and small spinners.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower and middle sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or early-run red salmon might be encountered also. A few kings are arriving (closed to fishing). The hooligan fishery has come to an end but a few specimens may still be around.

Upcoming Hot Spots:

UPPER KENAI RIVER: Opens to fishing on June 11. Early-run reds are moving into and through the entire length of the river with most fish concentrated between Skilak Lake and Russian River. A pre-season report on this popular fishery will soon be listed on this site. Additionally, look for good fishing for rainbows along with some Dolly Varden on opening day.

RUSSIAN RIVER: Opens to fishing on June 11. Early-run red salmon are arriving at the mouth and—providing numbers continue building exponentially—could be a hot spot starting next week. A pre-season report on this popular fishery will soon be listed on this site. Also, expect decent rainbow trout fishing on the opener with some big fish present.

GULKANA RIVER: The ADF&G weir on the river began operating on June 2 and a few dozen fish have already passed through, a good indication of an early run this season and hopefully a productive one at that. Water conditions are quite good. Should be a great spot to go in another week or so.

Updated Thursday, May 29

ROADSIDE ANGLER FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: SEWARD REDS; NINILCHIK KINGS; COOK INLET HALIBUT, SHARK, SKATE; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; HOMER COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: The season continues to evolve into a more prolific profile as far as salmon abundance is concerned, with reds starting to take the lead over kings (runs appear to be largely weak yet again this year, as expected). Anglers are having varied success for reds at the headwaters of Resurrection Bay in Seward and there are fishable numbers starting to show up in the lower Kenai and Kasilof rivers as well; before long, the Klutina River will see a major influx of fish also, followed by the Gulkana River. As far as kings go, some fish are being landed daily at Ship Creek and in the Kasilof River and the Ninilchik River had some nice fish brought in last weekend and should do a bit better this coming weekend. The lagoon in Homer is another spot that supports an opportunity for kings and there may be a few fish in Seward, too. Anglers are also getting a few kings in the Knik River near the mouth of Eklutna Tailrace.

Lakes and streams in the region are producing some of the best fishing of the year right now, with the tributaries of the Susitna River being tops for rainbows and grayling with additional chances for whitefish. The Copper Valley supports good action for grayling overall with whitefish and lake trout active in a few larger lakes. Pike are present and active in “wild” waters within the Matanuska Valley area. Stocked lakes throughout Southcentral are always reliable this time of year for landlocked salmon, trout, char, and grayling.

The saltwater fisheries for halibut, cod, skate, and shark are holding a more subdued position at the moment, yet still productive with some really nice flatfish being brought in over the past week. As for other bottomfish species, excellent opportunities abound.

COOK INLET

Conditions: Peak high tides this weekend will be in early to mid-morning and early evening. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. Tides will start off as high but moderate into next week, with 16 to 19 foot tides dominating, which is preferred by many anglers due to less current. From Ninilchik south, fish tides at night/early morning and on cloudy/rainy days; north up to Nikiski any time. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order.

HALIBUT: Fair. Spotty success depending on location and tide. Average 10 to 20 pounds; larger specimens to 50+ pounds a possibility. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Kenai are producing; limits possible. Bag limit is 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Poor to Fair. Try beaches between Anchor Point and Ninilchik. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 10 pounds. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Schools of Dolly Varden and early-run red salmon may be encountered.

NINILCHIK RIVER

Conditions: Weekend-Only Fishery (including Mondays); second opener coming up (5/31-6/2). Water is relatively low and clear, good visibility. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Very early Saturday morning will provide best opportunities throughout stretch of water open to fishing (lower 2 miles of river). Ratio of wild fish to hatchery is approximately 50/50; good supply of jacks present. Boat harbor will produce most consistent catches through the weekend; start fishing one hour after high tide using spoons and spinners. Recent catches averaged 6 to 15 pounds, up to 25 pounds. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

STEELHEAD TROUT: Poor. Most all fish present will be in post-spawning condition (kelts). Catch-and-release only.

OTHER: A few Dolly Varden and rainbow trout may be present. Occasional catches of early-run red salmon possible in harbor area on the tides.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; murky to very silty at head of bay. Large tides this weekend and moderate through next week.

RED SALMON: Fair. Success rates vary considerably depending on individual tide and coinciding commercial fishing efforts at head of bay. Some anglers report near of full limits but most 1 or 2 fish; action could pick up sharply soon as main run expected to arrive in force sometime this coming week or by next weekend. Snagging best harvest method. Try incoming tide. Bag limit is 6 fish.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size range 10 to 20 pounds, occasionally up to 50+ pounds. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 15 pounds. No bag/size limit.

HOOLIGAN: Poor to Fair. Small concentrations of fish can be located in middle sections of Resurrection River, Japanese Creek, and Salmon Creek; appears to be a small run again this year. No catch restrictions.

OTHER: A few hatchery king salmon (and some reds) arriving at mouth of Scheffler Creek; angler success very slow for kings yet.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low to moderate and rising; clarity fair. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Poor. Some kings caught from boats in or near tidewater; a few fish landed off the bank but action is slow still. Best shot at hooking fish is near and around the Crooked Creek area; try an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Swing/drift flies and attractors or use plugs. Current size range is 6 to 25 pounds. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

RED SALMON: Poor. A few early-run fish are now being caught on a daily basis between boaters and bankers and success will pick up rapidly come next week as run accelerates. Best fishing one hour before to one hour after high tide around Crooked Creek, opportunities all day long upstream of highway bridge. Swing/drift flies or use small plugs. Current size range is 4 to 6 pounds. Bag limit is 3 fish.

STEELHEAD TROUT: Poor. The run of fish up Crooked Creek is nearly finished with only a few pre-spawning trout and more kelts remaining around the Kasilof confluence from now and for the next few weeks. Catch-and-release only.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. The annual out-migration of sea-run char is ongoing; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: Some rainbows being caught.

KENAI RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low to moderate and rising; clarity generally good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed. All of upper river and middle river above Bing’s Landing closed to fishing through June 10 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Poor. First run arriving and building in numbers and some fish are now taken regularly by anglers. Try Swiftwater and Moose Meadows in Soldotna and around Moose River mouth and Bing’s Landing in Sterling for best chances. Swing/drift flies. Peak of early run expected second week of June. Bag limit 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT: Fair. Can be decent in some spots, very slow in others depending on day and fish movements. Fish are scattered throughout drainage; occasional catches of large spawners.

HOOLIGAN: Fair. Numbers of fish entering from inlet is subsiding with most of run being located upstream at top of tidewater and lower river sections; look for fish traveling close to shore—use dip net. No catch restrictions.

OTHER: A few steelhead trout and Dolly Varden present. Some early-run kings showing in lower end of river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Poor. Some kings are arriving on the tides at the Dudiak Lagoon and a few have been taken by anglers; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming and early morning. Herring and salmon roe are perfect bait options, and spinners work also. Run is about ten days away from peaking. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. The incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit are usually most productive but fish may be taken along most areas, including Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work best.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size range 4 to 10 pounds, up to 15+ pounds. No bag/size limit.

OTHER: Rare catches of early-run red salmon around the spit and outside of the lagoon.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are generally low and clarity very good due to low snowpack in area last winter and an early spring. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Decent numbers of fish are being caught at mouths of tributaries as well as in lower and middle sections; also productive in upper parts of Montana and Willow. The larger associated drainages, like Talkeetna and Kashwitna, are also yielding nice (and sometimes heftier) trout. Try insect, forage, and salmon fry/smolt imitations. Catch-and-release only.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. The spawn is largely done and fish are distributed throughout the system; try the lower and middle reaches of Montana, Goose, Sheep, Kashwitna, Little Willow, and Willow using flies and small spinners.

HOOLIGAN: Poor to Fair. The mainstem Susitna River just downstream of the mouth of Willow Creek is producing some fish for dip netters but opportunities will drop off next week as the run comes to an end. No catch restrictions.

OTHER: Round whitefish are moving into lower sections of tributaries; burbot present in slow/slack water around stream mouths. An occasional pike or early-run red salmon might be encountered also. A few kings are arriving (closed to fishing).

Upcoming Hot Spots:

SHIP CREEK: King salmon run is building and fish are being caught on the tides. Look for potentially consistent action in another week. Recent catches have pegged the scale at between 10 and 15 pounds with larger specimens coming.

UPPER KENAI RIVER: Opens to fishing on June 11. A few reds are usually present by now but numbers will quickly build towards a peak starting around the 15th. Look for good fishing for rainbows on opening day.

RUSSIAN RIVER: Opens to fishing on June 11. A small number of reds are typically in the mouth of the river by June 1 (some years even by Memorial Day weekend) with numbers building towards a peak starting around the 15th. Expect decent rainbow trout fishing on the opener with some big fish present.

KLUTINA RIVER: The reds are headed this way by the tens of thousands and a few scouts are likely already here, yet do not expect much in terms of success until another week to ten days. Until then, try for Dolly Varden on the upper river at the lake outlet.

Updated Thursday, May 22

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ROADSIDE FISHING REPORT

TOP WEEKEND PICKS: COOK INLET HALIBUT, COD, SHARK, SKATE; NINILCHIK KINGS; SEWARD SEA-RUN CHAR, COD, BOTTOMFISH, HOOLIGAN; SUSITNA RAINBOWS, GRAYLING; HOMER SEA-RUN CHAR, COD, BOTTOMFISH

REGIONAL SUMMARY: Opportunities are starting to add up quickly as the season progresses and this holiday weekend should prove very worthwhile for anglers both north and south of Anchorage and throughout much of the Southcentral region.

King and red salmon are are staging off the mouths of freshwaters draining into the salt and beginning to make an earnest push into multiple rivers and streams on the Kenai Peninsula as well as along the North Gulf Coast. A small number of kings have already been confirmed caught in Ship Creek in downtown Anchorage and in the Kasilof River, and are being tallied in the Ninilchik River as well. The lower Copper River is now receiving thousands of early-run reds, which should begin to appear at the mouths of Klutina and Gulkana rivers in another week to ten days. Halibut, cod, shark, and skate are present in good numbers in a few locations on the peninsula and without a doubt one of the leading fisheries this holiday weekend. And due to a relatively low snowpack followed by an early thaw resulting in optimal water conditions, the Susitna Valley has some great stream action this spring for primarily rainbows and grayling. The hooligan run into Turnagain Arm is slowing down but still productive, yet the Seward and Susitna runs are now starting to peak.

State stocking trucks are making the rounds to lakes and ponds in the region; expect good to excellent success for generally smaller fish but there will be some much larger specimens available in some locations.

Hot Spots of the Week

COOK INLET

Conditions: This weekend and through the week into the following weekend promises a series of very large tides. Although the fishing time may be less due to stronger current on the incoming and outgoing compared to smaller tides, the water depth is greater and often brings larger fish closer to shore—especially at night and on cloudy/rainy days. Peak high tides this weekend will be in middle of the night/very early morning and in mid-afternoon. Herring best bait, squid and salmon parts also good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases. Closed to king salmon fishing by emergency order. Closed to all fishing within 200 yards of Anchor, Stariski, Deep, and Ninilchik mouths by regulation.

HALIBUT: Fair to Very Good. Average landings 10- to 20-pound flatfish; larger specimens to 50+ pounds very much a possibility. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Nikiski are producing; limits quite common. Bag limit is 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Beaches from Anchor Point to Cohoe best. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 10 pounds.

SHARK/SKATE: Fair to Very Good. Beaches from Whiskey Gulch to Nikiski are producing. Most fish are 15 to 30 pounds, up to 50 pounds.

OTHER: Schools of Dolly Varden and red salmon may be encountered.

NINILCHIK RIVER

Conditions: Weekend-Only Fishery (including Mondays). Water is relatively low and clear, good visibility. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Fair. Very early Saturday morning will provide best opportunities throughout stretch of water open to fishing (lower 2 miles of river). Boat harbor will produce most consistent catches through the weekend; start fishing one hour after high tide using spinners. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

STEELHEAD TROUT: Poor. Most fish present will be in post-spawning condition (kelts). Catch-and-release only.

OTHER: A few Dolly Varden and rainbow trout may be present. Occasional catches of early-run red salmon possible in harbor area on the tides.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY

Conditions: Water is clear on high tides and in outer bay; murky to very silty at head of bay. Very large tides this weekend and through next week.

RED SALMON: Poor to Fair. Fish started trickling into the mouths of Resurrection River and Salmon Creek at the head of the bay last week; still spotty and inconsistent but picking up and could be fairly decent next week, if not sooner. Peak of run expected in 10 days. Snagging best harvest method. Try incoming tide. Bag limit is 6 fish.

HALIBUT: Poor to Fair. Better chances in deep waters off Lowell Point Road and beach area, near the SeaLife Center, and off the mouth of Lowell Creek; beaches of Spring Creek and Tonsina Creek sometimes productive. Herring best bait; use hinged-style set-up. Size range 10 to 20 pounds, occasionally up to 50+ pounds. Bag limit 2 fish.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Stretch of water along Lowell Point Road and south beach best. Size range 4 to 8 pounds, up to 15 pounds.

HOOLIGAN: Fair to Good. Concentrations of fish can be located on the tides at the mouths and lower sections of Resurrection River and Salmon Creek; should be productive at road crossings shortly using dip nets.

OTHER: Few signs of king salmon at this point but should be a trickle of hatchery kings (and some reds) showing up at the mouth of Scheffler Creek any day now.

KASILOF RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low but rising; clarity fair. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed, single-hook/artificial lures only.

KING SALMON: Poor. A few kings caught from boats in or near tidewater; only a few fish landed off the bank so far. Increase chances by trying an hour before to two hours after peak high tide. Only hatchery kings may be retained; all wild fish must be released. Bag limit is 2 hatchery fish.

DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. The annual out-migration of sea-run char is ongoing; salmon egg and juvenile fish imitations are effective.

OTHER: A few early-run reds beginning to show, should be worth targeting in another week to ten days. Some rainbows being caught.

KENAI RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are low but rising; clarity fair. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; bait and multiple hooks not allowed. All of upper river and middle river above Bing’s Landing closed to fishing through June 10 by regulation.

RED SALMON: Poor. First run arriving and building in numbers and likely fishable by next week; a few fish have been reported caught. Try Swiftwater and Moose Meadows in Soldotna and near Moose River mouth and Bing’s Landing in Sterling for best chances. Peak of run expected second week of June. Bag limit is 3 fish.

RAINBOW TROUT/DOLLY VARDEN: Fair. Can be decent in some spots, very slow in others depending on day and fish movements; char are headed to inlet.

HOOLIGAN: Fair to Good. Numbers of fish entering from inlet has peaked with most of run being located upstream at top of tidewater and lower river sections; look for fish traveling close to shore—use dip net.

OTHER: Some early-run kings showing in lower end of river but closed to fishing this season by emergency order.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY

Conditions: Water is clear to slightly silty. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases.

KING SALMON: Poor. A few kings are reportedly arriving on the tides at the Dudiak Lagoon; try outside of lagoon on the outgoing and the inside on the incoming. Bait such as herring and salmon roe are perfect options, as are spinners. Run is about two weeks away from peaking. Bag limit is 2 fish in the lagoon.

DOLLY VARDEN: Good. The incoming and outgoing tides along south side of spit are usually most productive but fish may be taken along most areas, including Coal Point, mouth of boat harbor, and Dudiak Lagoon outfall. Small flies/lures imitating juvenile salmon work best.

PACIFIC COD: Fair to Good. Coal Point and area in front of hotel and condos best spots; use bait like herring or cast jigs. Size range 4 to 10 pounds, up to 15+ pounds.

BOTTOMFISH: Excellent. A variety of species being caught off Coal Point/End of Spit; pollock, flounder, sculpin. Low tide best. Some smaller halibut less than 10 pounds present; larger specimens as well as rockfish, skate, and shark possible in area off the front of hotel and condos.

OTHER: Rare catches of early-run red salmon around the spit and outside of the lagoon.

SUSITNA RIVER

Conditions: Water levels are generally low and clarity very good. Emergency orders are in effect—check news releases; closed to king salmon fishing and bait and multiple hooks not allowed.

RAINBOW TROUT: Good. Decent numbers of fish are being caught at mouths of tributaries as well as in lower and middle sections; also productive in upper parts of Montana and Willow. The larger associated drainages, like Talkeetna and Kashwitna, are also yielding nice (and sometimes heftier) trout. Try insect and forage imitation flies, including salmon fry/smolt imitations.

ARCTIC GRAYLING: Good. The spawn is finishing up and fish are distributed throughout the system; try the mouths and lower reaches of Montana, Goose, Sheep, Kashwitna, Little Willow, and Willow using flies and small spinners.

HOOLIGAN: Fair to Good. The Susitna River just downstream of the mouth of Willow Creek is starting to produce fish for dip netters and opportunities should pick up this weekend and next week. It appears to be a large run this year but action rarely extends much beyond the first several days of June most years.

OTHER: Round whitefish and burbot are present in and around the mouths of tributaries. An occasional early-run red salmon could be encountered also.

Updated Friday, May 16

COOK INLET BEACH HALIBUT PEAKING, KINGS AND REDS START ARRIVING IN STREAMS, HOOLIGAN STRONG IN TURNAGAIN ARM AND KENAI RIVER

Regional Summary: Excitement continues to stir in the angling community as not only are halibut, cod, and hooligan being caught in good numbers but king and red salmon are now being documented in several freshwater locations throughout the Southcentral region and a few fortunate anglers have already caught some. While still very early in the season for salmon, there is definitely optimism brewing that this year will yield some great action. In addition, many of the lake fisheries are picking up as water temperatures warm and the landlocked salmon, trout, char, grayling, and pike action gets busy. Note: The more detailed fishing reports will begin for the Memorial Day weekend.

LOWER KENAI RIVER: Dip netters are taking hooligan in places along the tidewater reaches of the river, such as Warren Ames Bridge and Cunningham Park, while those operating long-handled drift nets are doing best from Warren Ames Bridge down to the mouth at Kenai Beach on the tides; the fishing has and continues to be good. For those exploring the river by rod-and-reel, a few steelhead trout have been landed the past couple of months but opportunities are sporadic and generally limited to areas around the mouths of known spawning tributaries at this time, such as Funny River and Slikok Creek. A handful of rainbow trout and the occasional Dolly Varden are also present. A trickle of red salmon bound for Russian River and other early-run locations are typically moving through the lower (and middle) section right now and persistent anglers may be able to hook a fish or two in the right spot; try Swiftwater Campground and Bing’s Landing or anywhere the main river channel is next to the shoreline. Water levels remain low. Note: A few king salmon are likely in the river but are closed to fishing this year by emergency order. The upper Kenai and part of the middle river (upstream of Bing’s Landing in Sterling) are closed to all fishing through June 10 by regulation.

KASILOF RIVER: There are still a fair number of steelhead trout being caught around the mouth of Crooked Creek, including some brighter specimens, but the run is past peak and has commenced its trajectory up Crooked, which is closed to all fishing until August. Fishing for out-migrating Dolly Varden is fair. But the good news is that king salmon are showing up and there will be opportunities for anglers to harvest hatchery/fin-clipped fish over the next several weeks; all wild kings must be released. This is also the time of month when small numbers of early-run red salmon begin appearing, although do not expect any reliable action for at least another week or more. If targeting salmon on the lower river around Crooked Creek, try an hour or two before high tide to two hours after. Kings generally move up the river at a slower pace than the reds, which tend to shoot upstream very quickly. Note: Single hook only and no bait by emergency order.

COOK INLET: This salt water fishery remains the hot spot for anglers seeking action, with halibut weighing 10 to 20 pounds being brought to shore daily and limits of two fish are increasingly common in spots. Several fish in the 30- to 40-pound range have been landed this week, with at least one fish estimated to be in the 50 range—yet even bigger flatfish are out there. Pacific cod are producing steady catches, as are shark and skate, with the latter two becoming increasingly common. There are also plenty of flounders and other bottomfish being hooked. Success rates are fair to very good depending on location, skill level, and size of tide. Tides this weekend and into next week are small and the better opportunities will be in locations with deeper water near shore; long-distance casting skills are important during these smaller tides and those employing drones to get their bait far offshore will be the most successful. The next very large tide cycle will occur starting Saturday, May 24, and continues through Saturday, May 31. Note: Fishing is closed within 200 yards of the mouths of Anchor River, Stariski Creek, Deep Creek, and Ninilchik River through July 15 (King Salmon Conservation Zones).

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY: Anglers casting off Coal Point at the end of the spit are treated to some fast-paced action, mainly from pollock, flounders/sole, and sculpins, but some large Pacific cod are also being reported. Overall, the fishing is good to excellent; for cod, expect fair success, with the occasional halibut. Dolly Varden are cruising the shoreline all around the spit and good results may be had using salmon smolt/fry and sand lance imitation lures and flies. Although no confirmed reports yet, king salmon are undoubtedly in the area and starting to trickle into the Dudiak Lagoon on the tides—expect the first fish to be caught any day now. Do not be too surprised if a sporadic red salmon shows.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY: Hooligan are starting to move up the lower reaches of Resurrection River and Salmon Creek, providing some opportunity for dip netters looking for a relatively easy meal—this run should peak in another week, with fish available as far upstream as Japanese Creek highway crossing and Salmon Creek at the Nash Road crossing. Red salmon have begun showing up in small numbers in the snag fishery at the head of the bay but success is still inconsistent and usually far more misses than hits—but at least they are arriving and chances are there to be had on the tides. No reports yet of hatchery king salmon being caught by anglers surf-casting the beaches and points in and around town, which is not unusual, and the first fish is generally taken around the Memorial Day weekend. Anglers targeting Pacific cod are doing fair to good around the south beach of Lowell Point and the deeper water along Lowell Point Road; a few rockfish, smaller halibut, shark, and skate are possible, too, in addition to flounder/sole, pollock, and sculpin.

TURNAGAIN ARM: Dip netting for hooligan remains good to excellent at the head of the arm as well as in 20-Mile River. The run is still peaking and expected to stay strong through the weekend and next week before starting to slow down, unless the run proves very strong and carries longevity. Dippers are doing best on the outgoing tide from the 20-Mile to the large parking lot area at the edge of the Portage Flatlands, yet can be productive in many places along the highway south-east of Peterson Creek. Sea-run Dolly Varden are beginning to appear in the arm and can be encountered in small, scattered numbers at the mouths of clearwater streams; fishing will only improve from here on out into summer. Note: Bird Creek is closed to all fishing through July 13.

Updated Wednesday, May 7

COOK INLET HALIBUT PEAKING IN THE SURF, HOOLIGAN FILLING COOLERS IN TURNAGAIN ARM

Regional Summary: Fishing around the Southcentral region is picking up as waters warm and the season progresses. The long-awaited spring beach halibut fishery on the Kenai Peninsula has started in earnest and is set to yield some impressive catches over the next several weeks. Hooligan are inundating Turnagain Arm and 20-Mile River as dip netters are taking home big coolers full of these silvery smelt and success is set for other locations as well, like lower Kenai River, and the Resurrection River and Salmon Creek in Seward. The spring steelhead action on the Kasilof has peaked but expected to hold for a few more days before winding down. Sea-run Dolly Varden are making a sporty appearance in Kachemak Bay and Resurrection Bay. Yet this is only the beginning to a great summer ahead, as signs are already there of king and red salmon showing up in nearshore waters. But for now, the following locations are the Hot Spots for the weekend coming up.

COOK INLET: Despite a small tide series recently, surf-casters still managed to connect with a decent number of smaller halibut along inlet beaches. Now, with tides building in height through this weekend into next week, the action should really spark and with larger specimens coming closer to shore. Anglers have experienced success in virtually every spot between Nikiski and Anchor Point the past week with some of the more impressive landings being from Cohoe, Ninilchik/Deep Creek, and Whiskey Gulch where 2-fish limits realized by some. Additionally, Pacific cod, shark, and skate are becoming more common catches these days. The fish do move around not just with the individual tide but also according to movement of prey within an area so action can vary considerably from one day to the next. Herring is the best bait but squid and salmon parts work, too. To maximize hookups, use fresh bait with strong scent and fish the low-light hours. Select a place where water is deeper along the shoreline on high tide—indicated by a relatively steep gradient beach and how close to shore water can be seen on a low tide. If water on peak low is near shore, it will be deeper on peak high; some area beaches extend a quarter mile offshore on low tide so produce better fishing on very large tidal swings (18-23 ft.). As with anything fishing, there are of course many other active components for success and each location has its own variables.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY: Anglers targeting saltwater fish are finding good action still off Lowell Point and along Lowell Point Road, with Pacific cod and other bottomfish dominating the scene. The occasional shark, skate, and rockfish is possible, yet halibut catches are slowly increasing with the advent of baitfish in the area. As the hooligan run arrives in earnest—which could be any day now, if not already—the outer portion of Spring Creek Beach should be a strong contender for the larger flatfish. As for salmon, there was a claim of a couple of salmon observed jumping at the head of the bay not far from the Resurrection River/Salmon Creek marine saltwater snag fishery, which could very well be a reliable sighting as red salmon scouts of Bear Lake origin are due. Also, the hatchery run of king salmon to Seward Lagoon will (hopefully) be showing up the next few weeks. Numbers of Dolly Varden off area beaches are surging as fish are exiting freshwater in droves; try the mouths of most any clearwater salmon spawning stream using flies and lures resembling a juvenile salmon. The tidal swings are generally most productive but high tides can do well also. The whole beach area all along Lowell Point is a good place to look for sea-run char, as is the mouth of Tonsina Creek.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY: There is steady saltwater action to be experienced here, with codfish, flounders, and sculpins keeping anglers busy at Coal Point at the end of Homer Spit Road. Low tide is traditionally best for these species as the “chum” line from the processing plant outfall pipe in the area—a true fish magnate—is easily within casting range from shore. And as demonstrated before, the deeper channel in front of the hotel and condos support a better chance of larger specimens, such as halibut and Pacific cod and the occasional skate. Pieces of herring and squid see quantity hookups, while larger chunks and whole herring fished in deeper water has a way of seeing less action but quality size fish. Sea-run Dolly Varden are presenting good opportunities around the spit at this time as they chase down smaller prey like sand lance and juvenile salmon—lures and flies mimicking these species cast along the surf line will assuredly attract a strike. No sign yet of king salmon returning to the Dudiak Lagoon but it is still very early, especially these days with runs being so small or depleted overall. Historically, the first few kings of the season would be caught during the second week of May by anglers casting herring at the outfall stream mouth on the bay side on an outgoing tide—while a longshot, it is theoretically still possible.

TURNAGAIN ARM: Dip netting for hooligan along the arm has been good to phenomenal the last several days—depending on tide and location— and expected to hold for at least another week to ten days. Those up on the movement of fish according to tidal changes have been filling coolers easily, while other dippers are struggling to fill a bucket. Also look for bird activity, such as huge flocks of seagulls and eagles indicating a mass of hooligan present, and coordinate efforts accordingly. The stretch of water from the new turnoff up through the large parking area the start of Portage flatlands and on into 20-Mile River has been best as of late. As usual, the incoming and outgoing tides are best, with the latter being preferred as fish move in against the current on their way to the river and can readily be scooped up without too much effort.

KASILOF RIVER: Fishing for steelhead trout has been relatively good at the mouth of Crooked last weekend and so far this week. Anglers are hitting some nice fish on a variety of offerings, from forage to attractor patters. Egg imitations, such as beads, corkies, and yarn-style flies do very well in the murky, glacial sections of the river, while the more subdued, traditional schemes often produce better in the clear water from Crooked. With rising temperatures and water levels, the mass of fish holding in the confluence area will soon be exiting the main river and heading on up the small spawning tributary—expect this coming weekend to be the last productive period for this spring, although there will be pre-spawning trout present through the month and even into early June most years before being outnumbered by kelts (spawned-out fish). And the steelhead fishing is catch-and-release only per regulation. No solid reports yet of king salmon being sighted or caught but now is the time of season when there should be a few kings arriving on the tides; this weekend has a good series of larger tides so expect first fish to be caught any day now going forward—but reds are still at least ten days to two weeks off. As a reminder, only fin-clipped hatchery kings are allowed to be retained; all wild fish must be released. Additionally, no bait is allowed from May 1 through August 15 this year by emergency order.

Updated Thursday, May 1

HALIBUT HIT COOK INLET BEACHES, HOOLIGAN ARRIVING IN TURNAGAIN ARM

Regional Summary: Although the great spring trout fishery on the middle and upper sections of the Kenai River has closed for the season, the big news around Southcentral is that hooligan are pulling into Turnagain Arm and 20-Mile River yielding great dip netting opportunities for this early in the run and halibut are hitting the beaches along the west coast of Kenai Peninsula from the Kenai area down to Anchor Point. Excitement is definitely stirring in the local angling community and many are getting ready for the onslaught of early-run reds to Seward and even the Kenai and Kasilof rivers. As for king salmon prospects, due to emergency orders and recent poor performance of runs, anglers are taking it with stride and tempered expectations right now; however, there are upcoming opportunities to be had later this month for hatchery fish in Ship, Homer, Ninilchik, Kasilof, and Seward.

TURNAGAIN ARM: Hooligan are entering the arm in decent numbers and dip netters are filling buckets and smaller coolers with silvery smelt in a relatively short time. We could be looking at a strong early return—or at least early showing—this season and the run is projected to peak starting in ten days with opportunities continuing through the month until the regulatory June 1 salt water closure. Fish are also being dipped in respectable numbers out of the 20-Mile River; anywhere from the river tidewaters and west along the shoreline to Peterson Creek is productive. Depending on location, incoming and outgoing tides are best with many dippers favoring the latter.

COOK INLET: The wait is over and the word is out: Halibut are arriving off area beaches and surf-casters are scoring nice catches from Nikiski down to Whiskey Gulch. Most fish landed are in the 10- to 20-pound range but at least one fish in the 30-35 range has been reported—before long there will be ‘buts in the 50- to 60-pound category showing up with some lucky angler perhaps breaking triple digits. Peak action generally occurs in mid-May but solid opportunities continue until around June 10 most years before things slow down. Pacific cod are also being beached along with a variety of other bottomfish. Catches of shark and skate are still low but expected to increase substantially the next few weeks. Tides this weekend will be on the small side so long-distance casting becomes a focal point for success; the next series of relatively large tides begin mid next week.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY: Surf-casters here are continuing to land scores of Pacific cod, some which are quite large in the 10- to 15-pound range, but most are considerably smaller at several pounds. Catches of halibut remains sporadic with most all being in the “chicken” category, yet there are likely much larger specimens lurking the bay within casting range now that hooligan and herring are arriving. Apart from the usual haunts off Lowell Point and the Lowell Point Road, it is soon possible to get them across the bay along the outer section of Spring Creek Beach. Additional species showing up include rockfish, shark, flounders, codfish, and a variety of other bottomfish. Very few anglers have been targeting sea-run Dolly Varden in the bay but there have been a few caught off the mouths of salmon spawning streams at the head of the bay; action will accelerate the next couple of weeks as numbers of fish available increases—look to the mouth of Tonsina Creek to be a hot spot soon. Apart from the occasional feeder king present in nearshore waters, the early return of red salmon could very well launch in another two weeks; often the first few fish are caught at the snag fishery at the mouths of Resurrection River/Salmon Creek by May 15 but anglers have landed scouts as early as around May 7 in years past. It all comes down to the arrival of these fish from the depths of the Pacific in conjunction to what the water levels and temperature readings are on the Resurrection River/Salmon Creek fresh waters to green light the run.

KASILOF RIVER: Anglers taking a break from or not interested in beach halibut can tempt the steelhead currently running in the river. Fishing has been fair to good with reports of multiple landings easily achieved. It appears that most of the Crooked Creek run is now situated around the Kasilof confluence but there are fish distributed throughout the system from the upper river and rapids area down into tidewater. Expect most steelies to be in the 5- to 8-pound range with occasional catches into the teens. There are also resident rainbows being hooked, as well as a few out-migrating Dolly Varden. The action should continue for another week to ten days before slowing down, at which point the trout move into Crooked Creek closed area. There should be a “fishable” number of king salmon present by the third week of this month; as for reds, about late May is the time to encounter them—more on that in fishing reports to come.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY: The spit is yielding a reliable number of bottomfish at Coal Point, with good catches of pollock, flounder, and sculpins on low tides, especially, although there are fish present on all stages of the tide. Surf-casters trying the deep waters off the hotel/condo section are managing to beach some larger Pacific cod with a couple of fish into the teens reported. Although no recent reports of halibut being caught, there are fish in the area and will continue to be through spring and summer on into fall. A trickle of king salmon bound for the Dudiak Lagoon is likely to be coming around starting about now and for the next several weeks; do not expect much in the lagoon itself until May 15. Dolly Varden are building in numbers with fair to good action on the tidal changes—most anywhere along the spit from Bishop’s Beach to Coal Point and at the entrance of the boat harbor can be productive.

Updated Thursday, April 24

LATE APRIL FISHING REPORT

Regional Summary: After a brief return of winter-like weather conditions recently that hampered some of the spring enthusiasm in parts of Southcentral, it appears anglers are once again on track in finding some worthwhile opportunities this weekend and next week. The usual open water hot spots on the Kenai Peninsula and surrounding areas are producing action from a wide range of fish, perhaps especially marine species, but there are definitely some decent catches being made in a couple of our larger rivers as well. And from this point on into May, anglers can expect more substantial success as the season really begins to unfold. For now, the following is a short list of waters that are currently producing or are about to do so very shortly.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY: Perhaps the most noteworthy of marine fisheries at this time, the bay is producing consistent catches of Pacific cod for surf-casters as well as other bottomfish species like flounder, pollock, and sculpin. For those using long-range casting equipment or drones, the opportunities are much more varied and also include halibut, rockfish, skate, and the occasional shark. As always, the favored place to go is the south side of Lowell Point that features a gravel beach perfect and safe for landing fish. Also, the boulder-strewn stretch of shoreline along Lowell Point road can be productive as well. It is reported that the annual runs of herring and smelt are just starting to trickle into the head of the bay and will be close to shore in another week to ten days and in greater numbers; larger, more popular predatory species—such as halibut and Pacific cod—will very likely be in hot pursuit. While not a sure bet for anglers with no access to a boat, there will be feeder king salmon targeting these baitfish and a few of them have been caught by surf-casters the past decades during latter April and May, even right inside the boat harbor where herring often school. Sea-run Dolly Varden should be exiting local wintering lakes and streams starting about now and be available at the mouths of salmon spawning streams; expect action to build until a peak starting in mid-May—use small lures and flies mimicking juvenile salmon for results.

UPPER KENAI RIVER: An increasing number of rainbow trout are moving into and through the river bound for spawning and feeding areas within the drainage and anglers are managing to land some very decent fish in the process, including a few Dolly Varden. While it is true that many of these rainbows will reproduce in a few weeks, it is also true that a fair portion will not as research has documented that trout in the river do not necessarily spawn annually; therefore, expect a mix of darker and very bright trout. Midge and flesh flies often work well on feeding rainbows in April, while larger forage and attractor patterns succeed on larger spawn-bound specimens. Russian River is seeing opportunities for sight-fishing ‘bows but access is limited to use of a boat as the road to the campground is closed for construction through June 3rd; the road and campground will open to regular use on June 4. Time is running short for Upper and Middle Kenai and tributaries as they close down to all fishing by regulation on Thursday, May, 1 and will not open again until June 11.

KASILOF RIVER: With snow and ice largely gone in this area and warming water temperatures, anglers are seeing some productive action for steelhead trout. Depending on location on river, presentation used, and skill level, success has been generally fair with some very good catches also reported. Last fall did experience a respectful return of sea-run rainbows, of which is reflected in catch rates along the river. Fish are being caught from the upper Kasilof down into tidewater, with the Crooked Creek confluence being the hot spot for those walking in. Typically, this fishery peaks from now and into the second week of May; most fish vacate the mainstem river and head up Crooked Creek (closed to fishing) to spawn sometime after May 15. A mix of forage and attractor pattern flies and lures are working, including larger beads and smaller plugs. Fishing for hatchery-produced king salmon is allowed this season; all wild fish must be released. There is often a trickle of kings coming into the Kasilof by the first week of May but numbers generally do not build much until after mid-month and on into June. As a reference, back in the 80s and 90s when king returns were epic, it was not unheard of to see the first salmon show already in late April and anglers catching the first king off the bank by May 5th.

COOK INLET: Action along the stretch of water between Anchor Point and Nikiski has been rather muted recently but there are signs that things will improve very shortly as water temperatures nearshore are rising and herring and smelt (hooligan) are starting to appear. As it stands right now, we are looking at a more “normal” year in terms of seasonal timing for halibut. A few smaller flatfish have been landed in locations at the southern end of the peninsula and the big push of larger specimens is expected any day; this weekend and into next week could be productive as tides are very large—the beaches in the vicinity of Ninilchik, Deep Creek, Whiskey Gulch and on down along the coast are recommended for early season catches. Favored bait this time of year is herring (smaller whole or larger chunks) but squid and pieces of salmon also work. There are reports of flounder, sculpin, and codfish present as well and soon skate and shark will join the fray.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY: Success off the spit is improving day by day with anglers catching good numbers of flounders, codfish (especially pollock), and sculpin right off the end of Homer Spit at Coal Point. While the area around the pilings supports quick action, often the larger fish are landed to the west in front of the hotel and condos where the water is deeper near shore—low tide is best time to access the deepwater trench there. Expect opportunities for halibut, large Pacific cod, and the occasional rockfish, in addition to the possibility of hooking a feeder kings salmon. It is also feasible that there may be a few kings headed to the Dudiak Lagoon present. Fishing for sea-run Dolly Varden is slowly picking up along the spit and tossing smolt-imitation lures and flies is the way to go; cast at an angle to the beach and sometimes even parallel if wading a ways out as the char hunt in the swells near shore.

TURNAGAIN ARM: Effort targeting hooligan with dip nets has been meager thus far this season, mostly due to a snowstorm in the area some two weeks ago that knocked the wind out of any hopes for an early return of these silvery smelt. But with the snow now mostly melted and water temperatures rising again, the first few fish should appear by this weekend, if not already, with the waters from Peterson Creek to the flatlands at the head of the arm best bet on the outgoing tides. Look for the run to peak right around May 15 in the saltwaters of the arm and extending into late May in 20-Mile River. No reports of anyone trying for sea-run Dolly Varden at the mouths of area streams; historically, a few are present at this time but success will improve later on in May and especially June. As a note, Bird Creek is closed to all fishing until July 13 by regulation.

Updated Wednesday, April 2

FIRST OPEN WATER FISHING REPORT OF 2025

Summary: In stark contrast to previous years (perhaps especially last year), the start of April now had a true feel of spring to it as most of the snow is gone and many areas at lower elevations completely bare and temperatures reaching near record or new record highs in the 50s for the date. For anglers this is great news as most coastal and some inland waters are flowing, fish are starting to move around, and the marine fisheries along the Kenai Peninsula perhaps only days away from action turning on. While there is definitely some great ice fishing opportunities to be had in the Southcentral region, mostly at higher elevations of the Susitna, Matanuska, and Copper valleys, much of the angling populace has had enough of winter and looking for open water and the chance of hooking into trout, char, halibut, and cod. Although things are just getting started and success still on the slow side overall, there is no denying that the season has arrived and the fishing will only improve from here on out.

UPPER KENAI RIVER: With a relatively mild winter and lack of the usual snow cover, anglers visiting this river can expect bare ground and no shelf ice to kick off the spring season (a very different story compared to last year at this time). A few dedicated souls this winter did manage to land some fish on consistent basis—mostly rainbow trout along with a few Dolly Varden, the action was generally slow to fair at best with a relatively good day here and there. And there were occasional reports of fish measured into the mid-twenties landed, yet smaller specimens in the teens ruled. But now that April rolled around, there are larger ‘bows starting to show as they are moving in from overwintering areas bound for spawning locations in tributaries as well as the mainstem river. In fact, it is not unusual for anglers to connect with some of the biggest catches of the year the next several weeks, with trophies in the 10- to 16-pound range or more possible. Forage pattern flies and midges are effective this month; beads and flesh will also work as there may still be a few silver salmon spawning and dying off. Expect fish to be well distributed throughout the main river with numbers building daily; additionally, the area around the mouth of Russian River is a seasonal “hot spot” for larger-sized trout. As we are apparently experiencing an early spring, there will be some rainbows moving into the Russian itself in another couple of weeks, providing good sight-fishing opportunities. Water conditions are very low and clear. The spring season ends on May 1 as the upper and middle sections of the Kenai as well as tributaries close to all fishing through June 10.

KASILOF RIVER: There have been a few reports from this river of the occasional steelhead trout being landed. Water temperatures are still very cold as shelf ice is present along many parts of the river and Tustumena Lake is mostly covered in ice yet; expect the action here to pick up in the next couple of weeks as these sea-run rainbows begin moving from the lake into the river in increasing numbers. Crooked Creek and Nikolai Creek host small but stable runs of steelhead, with the former being the best option for roadside anglers due to easy foot access. Initially fall-run fish, they overwinter in the lake (although some also utilize deep holes in the river) and head towards spawning streams in the spring. The mouth of Crooked Creek is a good spot to intercept these fish beginning mid-month and on through early May as they congregate before heading up the clearwater tributary to spawn. Condition of fish range from bright to dark blush; these trout have not spawned yet and the majority of them still many weeks away from doing so (most steelhead in Crooked reproduce between late May and mid-June, some even right up until July). A variety of forage pattern flies as well as beads and corkies work. King salmon typically start arriving sometime after May 1.

COOK INLET: This may be one of the more popular fishing locations this month, with surf-casters eagerly awaiting the spring “run” of halibut. Anglers have been landing the occasional smaller flatfish for several weeks already but success is best described as very slow at this time. Due to a lack of snowmelt and ice around the peninsula as well as areas to the north, expect coastal waters to warm early this season. And as water temperatures increase a bit more, sparking the annual spawning runs of herring and hooligan, halibut will give chase into the shallows and become perfect targets for anglers lobbing chunks of bait from area beaches between Anchor Point and Nikiski. There should be a noticeable increase of fish movement along these beaches starting soon after April 15, depending on location, with action building through the month and halibut numbers peaking starting in early to mid-May. While every year is different, there may be a decent influx of Pacific cod available, too. Last spring was a really productive year for cod along these beaches. As always, expect shark and skate to show up soon along with the halibut, but these species generally become more abundant later on. Best bait universally is herring, with squid and salmon pieces also productive at times in places.

HOMER/KACHEMAK BAY: The Homer Spit has been yielding some decent catches of flounder, codfish, and other bottomfish recently but the action will intensify later this month and especially in May. The usual spot at Coal Point (Land’s End) and the pilings is a good spot to try; for more consistent catches of halibut and larger specimens of Pacific cod, the stretch of water in front of the hotel and condos seem to be more productive as the water is deeper there. Another species that is just now beginning to appear is Dolly Varden; a few have been taken but while success is still on the slow side, things will pick up as more char exit area wintering streams and gather in Kachemak Bay to feed on juvenile salmon. Expect the first few king salmon bound for the Dudiak Lagoon to show after May 1st, and there are feeders patrolling these waters right now with the occasional catch from shore possible.

SEWARD/RESURRECTION BAY: Due to deep water present within casting range from shore, anglers here typically do better earlier in the spring season compared to other salt water locations on the peninsula and a few small halibut and some Pacific cod have already been taken from the surf this year. While most halibut and cod are still situated in deeper water—but well within range of fishers using drones to bring bait farther out—there are opportunities to be had for true surf-casters, particularly along the Lowell Point Road. The bottom drops off very quickly along most stretches of this road, the only drawback being complications dragging big fish through the kelp beds closer to shore and landing them between the boulders lining the surf, which can be a chore and sometimes a hazardous one at that. More popular is the gravel beach area at the end of the road on the south side of Lowell Point; it is the perfect spot for landing fish but accessing deep water requires either very good long-distance casting skills or a drone to carry bait far out. But the halibut will move into more shallow water as temperatures increase and the hooligan and herring runs appear, usually towards the end of April or early May. Sea-run Dolly Varden are beginning to drop out of area streams and will increase in numbers along the bay through the month and into next; until then, anglers trying local lakes—such as Grouse—will do well.

TURNAGAIN ARM: Latest news from here is that the ice is gone from all waters of the arm, including the lower section of 20-Mile River, and snow depth very minimal inland but already melted along the waterways. This means that as long as temperatures in the area do not plunge and no significant snowfall occurs the next couple of weeks, it is a good possibility of hooligan arriving a little earlier than most years—if the run is on a normal track arriving from the depths of the gulf. Years ago when this area experienced a very early and warm spring, the first few hooligan were caught around April 7th with the run coming in strong the last week of that month. Keep this in mind, not just dip netters wanting smelt but surf-casters targeting halibut down along the beaches of Cook Inlet. In addition, most lakes in Portage Valley are ice free, promoting potential opportunities for trout and/or char.