Like to know what is going on in your favorite fishing spot? Are there any kings showing up in the Ninilchik or Anchor? Will there be any reds at all to catch for the Russian opener June 11? Pinks thick in Hope yet? This section is a summary of exclusive information for various popular roadside fresh- and saltwater fisheries that is updated regularly and timely, making it a vital tool for planning future fishing trips. Largely gathered from first-hand observations of Roadside Angler’s Guide staff and appointed agents, it also contains information provided by the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, area guides, and private fishermen and -women throughout the Southcentral and Interior regions of the state.
June 9: 2024 RUSSIAN RIVER PRE-SEASON OPENER REPORT
With the official and long-awaited opener at the popular Russian River virtually only hours away, Roadside Angler visited the upcoming fishery and documented the following information:
On Saturday, June 8, a walk-through was completed from the Pink Salmon parking stairs to and including the Kenai River confluence area at the Kenai-Russian Rivers ferry.
Fish Observations: There were small numbers of red salmon seen throughout most of the course of the river with somewhat greater concentrations in deeper and slower holes, pools, and runs. Due to moderate water volume and few shallows to contend with, fish are moving into and up the river unhindered, only pausing momentarily before continuing on.
As of June 8, a total of 53 reds had passed through the ADF&G weir near the outlet of Lower Russian Lake and “many” more fish have been reported at the bottom of the falls waiting to negotiate the strong currents by other sources. At the river mouth and along the Kenai River confluence to the ferry, a decent number of reds were observed holding. Fish began arriving in this location about ten days ago, which is normal for the early run of reds.
Stream Conditions: The Russian is flowing at moderate levels and may be difficult to cross in many places due to elevated stream volume from ongoing snowmelt in the surrounding mountains after a late and cool spring; individuals with issues regarding safely crossing the river due to swift currents and depth should think twice before proceeding. The current slows down somewhat prior to flowing into the Kenai River island channel, although the water is fairly deep in that area; the gravel bar at the mouth of the Russian is mostly submerged.
Despite higher than normal water levels, clarity is good and sight-fishing will be very possible with sufficient light. However, this may change as temperatures were in the 70s in the Cooper Landing area on Saturday, which will prompt rapid melting of snow in the mountains and could result in further elevated water levels and reduced clarity by the time the river opens to fishing on June 11.
All stairways, the cleaning table at the river mouth, and plastic border fencing are assembled and in place.
June 11 Season Opener: Anglers can expect at least fair opportunities in the Russian River itself with some anglers reaching the 3-fish daily bag limit; those skilled at sight-fishing will do the best, unless water conditions deteriorate from what was observed on June 8. If the mass of fish down in the mainstem Kenai River suddenly decides to move upstream in the next day or two, action could potentially be good or better. Overall, things are looking fairly normal for the opener.