What You Need To Know
What Should I Bring?
Weather on the peninsula ranges from 55 to 75 degrees. We suggest dressing in layers and recommend waterproof rain gear and footwear. Our trips are fully guided and outfitted however if you’d like to bring your own favorite waders feel free to do so. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses or any form of eye protection, mosquito repellent and a camera. Also remember to bring a cooler to leave in your vehicle to take fish home.
Your charter will typically be 6-8 hours so you will need to pack a lunch, snacks and drinks. Alcohol is permitted in moderation.
Printed copy of fishing license required. Without it you will not be able to fish. Printed copy is used to record your catch. Do not forget to purchase a king stamp if you will be king fishing.
Will Everyone Need a Fishing License and King Stamp?
NON RESIDENTS: 16 years and above are required to purchase a fishing license and have it in possession while fishing. A king stamp is required if fishing for Kings May 15th – July 31st
NON RESIDENTS: 15 years of age or younger do not require a fishing license or King stamp but must have a HARVEST CARD. Harvest cards are free at any location where fishing licenses are sold.
ALASKA RESIDENTS: 18 years and above are required to purchase a fishing license and have it in possession while fishing. A king stamp is required if fishing for Kings May 15th – July 31st
ALASKA RESIDENTS: 17 years of age or younger do not require a fishing license or King stamp but must have a HARVEST CARD. Harvest cards are free at any location where fishing licenses are sold.
Printed copy of fishing license required. Without it you will not be able to fish. Printed copy is used to record your catch.
How Far is Anchorage From Kenai?
The drive from Anchorage to Kenai is approximately 150 miles and takes around three hours if driving with minimal stops.
If you are traveling with time to spare, we’d encourage you to make the most of your Alaskan summer vacation and stop along the way at destinations like Turnigan Arm, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the town of Girdwood, Portage Glacier, and Kenai Lake where the glacial fed headwaters form the Kenai River. These are just a few stops that will maximize your experience on this unforgettable road trip.
Where Can I Find Lodging?
Kenai and Soldotna have multiple lodging options you can find on the web. Advanced booking is recommended due to limited availability during peak season. We are happy to provide you with suggestions.
Are There Grocery Stores and Restaurants in Town?
Yes, we have plenty of grocery stores to choose from and even a Walmart! Most of our guest will have a light breakfast, pack a lunch for the trip and have dinner at one of our local restaurants or breweries. Ask your guide for recommendations.
Do I Need a Rental Car?
Yes. The Kenai Peninsula is a vast landscape with a very large geographic area. There is much to do during the long Alaska days where transportation is a must. Kenai Wild offers various locations to fish. From rivers to saltwater and even fly out trips. Our River fishing and fly out trips are centrally located, within 30 minutes driving from the city of Kenai, while saltwater can range from 1 hour to 2.5 hours.
If you chose to rent a car in Anchorage and make the three-hour drive to Kenai, you are in for one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Another available option is to take a short 30-minute flight from Anchorage to Kenai Airport. Raven Airlines and Grant Aviation are two of the companies that offer these flights. Rental cars are available in the city of Kenai, but availability can become an issue during the summer months.
Will We See Wildlife?
You may see bald eagles, whales, moose, caribou, otter and sometimes seals. You may also book a wildlife bear viewing tour on one of our fly-outs.
Where Can I Get My Fish Processed and How Do I Get it Home?
There are multiple fish processing locations that will freeze, vacuum pack and ship your catch. Another option is to have your fish processed and use a fish box to send as checked baggage on your flight home. Please check with your airline for rules prior to your departure.
When Should I Book My Fishing trip?
If you are targeting a certain species advance booking is crucial to ensure the best dates.
How are Gratuities Handled?
Gratuities are totally discretionary, however, here are some common practices:
A customary tip is 15-20% of the cost of the charter per person. If your guide went above and beyond and showed exemplary service additional gratuities are always appreciated but not expected. Guides are tipped daily.
Are There Other Activities Besides Fishing?
• Glacier tours
• Scenic drive to Seward or Homer spit
• Hiking
• Biking
• Kayaking
• Visit the Seward Sea Life Center
• Museum and Kenai Cultural Center
• Walking tour of Old Town Kenai
• Explore our beaches
What is The Daily Fish Limit and Regulations?
Kenai River Regulations
King salmon: No guided king fishing on Sunday-Monday in May, June and July with the exception of Memorial Day. 1 Kenai King is permitted per day and total of 2 per season.
Sockeye salmon: No guided restrictions. Sockeye limit is 3 per day. Sockeye limits increase if escapement goals are reached.
Silver salmon: No guided silver fishing on Mondays August -September.
Silver salmon limit is 2 per day during the month of August and 3 per day in September.
Rainbow Trout: Catch and release only.
Emergency orders and regulations can change day to day.
You can find up to date info at:
Kasilof River Regulations
King Salmon: Hatchery and wild king salmon are found in the Kasilof River. Starting May 15th – June 30th King salmon limit is 2 per day, 2 in possession and total of 3 per season. Hatchery kings may be kept any day of the week.
On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday you are permitted to keep 1 wild king salmon that will count toward your 2 per day limit.
King salmon: No guided king fishing on Sundays during the month of July. King salmon limit is 1 per day in July and total of 3 per season. Wild and hatchery king salmon may be kept in the month of July.
Sockeye salmon: Sockeye limit is 3 per day. Sockeye limits increase if escapement goals are reached.
Emergency orders and regulations can change day to day.
You can find up to date info at:
Saltwater Regulations
Halibut: 2 per day. One halibut must be under 28 inches, second can be of any size. Limit is 4 per season.
King salmon: 1-2 per day. Limit is 5 per season.
Silver Salmon: 3 per day. No annual limit.
Lingcod: 1-2 per day
Rockfish: 4-5 per day
Emergency orders and regulations can change day to day.
You can find up to date info at: