FAQs
Sportfishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license?
Anyone over the age of 16 is required by law to purchase an Alaska fishing license.
If you are fishing for King salmon you will also need a King salmon stamp. One-day
licenses cost $10 per person and one-day King stamps cost $20 per person. Anyone
under the age of 16 fishing is not required to purchase a fishing license but
will need a free harvest record card. Licenses are not included in our trip costs,
and must be purchased prior to your fishing trip. If you'd like to purchase your
license in advance, you may apply online at
www.admin.adfg.state.ak.us/license (Note: For online purchases please allow at least 2 weeks to receive your license
in the mail). Fishing licenses and King salmon stamps are also available for purchase
at most gas stations and convenience stores here in Alaska.
What equipment is provided?
We provide all tackle, top-notch fishing gear, rain jackets, rain pants, hip
waders, and U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices. If you prefer,
you are also welcome to bring along your own favorite fishing tackle, waterproof
rain gear, and waders. Please contact us for tackle and gear recommendations.
What should I bring?
Bring along plenty of warm clothes! The best way to dress for a fishing trip
in Alaska is in layers. Polypro, capilene, or wool all keep you warm even when
wet and are excellent first and second layers. We suggest bringing a hat, gloves,
a warm jacket, long underwear, and an extra pair of socks. Always have rain gear
with you even if it's clear and sunny in the morning. Some other helpful items
to bring along are insect repellant and polarized sun glasses, as they come in
handy on the river. Please refer to our Packing List for our recommendations on
what to bring.
What can I fish for?
We will do our best to provide the most exciting fishing available on any given
day. May through July, we'll fish for giant King salmon in the Lower Kenai and
Kasilof rivers. In August and September, we'll fish for Silver salmon in the Lower
Kenai River and in Resurrection Bay near Seward. The Upper Kenai River offers
excellent fishing for Sockeye Salmon in June and July as well as Rainbow Trout
and Dolly Varden from June through September.
Can I keep what I catch?
You can keep King, Sockeye and Silver Salmon within the Alaska Department of
Fish and Game regulations. The bag limits set forth by the Alaska Department of
Fish and Game are subject to change at any time to protect the viability of each
species. We'll clean, cut, bag, and vacuum seal any kept fish. The current limits
are as follows:
King Salmon:
1 per day, 2 per season (Kenai River), 3 per season (Kasilof River)
Sockeye Salmon:
3 per day
Silver Salmon:
2 per day (Kenai River); 6 per day (Resurrection Bay)
Rainbow Trout:
Catch and Release, no retention
Dolly Varden:
Catch and Release, no retention
Note: You may catch and release King Salmon until you retain a "keeper". However,
by state regulation, once you retain a King Salmon from either the Kenai or Kasilof
River, you are no longer allowed to fish in that same water for that day.
Can I bring my camera and binoculars on the boat?
Definitely. You will want to take many pictures of your fish, magnificent scenery,
and wildlife along the river. Your gear will remain relatively dry in the boat
storage spaces, and we provide waterproof bags for protection from the occasional
splash.
Will I see wildlife?
The Kenai River valley is home to moose, eagles, bears, beavers, otters, and
numerous fish and waterfowl. Wildlife sightings vary on each trip. Your guide
will share with you ways to search for wildlife and recognize wildlife signs.
What if I've never fished before?
No previous knowledge of fishing is necessary. You need only be in average physical
condition and have a hearty appetite for adventure. Fishing in Alaska is fun regardless
of your experience level and our guides will teach you their successful techniques.
How many people are in each fishing boat?
There are usually 2 to 4 people per boat on the fishing trips.
Can my family fish with me?
We often guide groups or families with various ages and fishing abilities. Children
over the age of 12 are able to handle the Alaska fishing challenges and frequently
catch the largest fish in the group! There's usually enough fishing adventure
and wildlife sightings to keep the entire family entertained.
Are there bathroom facilities along the river?
On the Upper Kenai, we'll be fishing through some undeveloped wilderness areas
with enough trees for everyone. On the Lower Kenai, restroom facilities are always
available within a short boat ride.
What's the weather going to be like?
Alaskan weather is unpredictable and can change hourly. Even on the sunniest
days of summer, the temperature on the river will feel cool. Your guides will
offer advice on how to layer your clothing to maximize comfort. (Please refer
to our recommended Packing List.)
What is the "Two Dollars a Day Program"?
Alaska Wildland Adventures contributes annually to Alaska-based nonprofit efforts
for environmental protection. As a consumer, you can elect to participate in our
"Two Dollars A Day Program". Since its inception, the program has allowed us to
pass through tens of thousands of dollars in contributions. You can help support
groups working to preserve and protect the Kenai Peninsula by making a voluntary
contribution of $2. Donations made to this program will be equally divided among:
Friends of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Kenai River Sportfishing Association
Eastern Kenai Peninsula Environmental Action Association
Cook Inlet Keeper