Early Opening of the Russian River Sanctuary for Sport Fishing

Great news for anglers! The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is opening the Russian River Sanctuary Area earlier than usual for sport fishing for sockeye salmon. This change is effective from 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 3, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Typically, the Russian River Sanctuary Area opens by regulation from July 15 through August 20. This early opening provides an extended opportunity for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the abundant sockeye salmon run in this prime location.

For additional details, you can visit the original announcement by ADF&G here.

Fishing Regulations for the Russian River Sanctuary Area:

• Dates: July 3 – August 20
• Fly-fishing-only waters: Sockeye or coho salmon
• Size Limits:
  • Sockeye or coho salmon 16 inches or longer: 3 per day, 6 in possession (only 1 coho salmon per day/in possession)
  • Sockeye or coho salmon less than 16 inches: 10 per day, 10 in possession

According to ADF&G, as of June 30, 2024, a total of 27,518 sockeye salmon have passed the Russian River weir, surpassing the biological escapement goal (BEG) of 22,000–44,000 sockeye salmon. This success prompted the early opening, allowing more anglers to target these fish.

Angler Reminders:

• Cleaning Your Catch: Take your fish away from the clear waters of the Russian River to the mainstem Kenai River cleaning tables located at the confluence and ferry crossing to fillet. Cut up sockeye salmon carcasses into small pieces and throw the pieces into deep, flowing waters of the Kenai River.
• Personal Belongings: Keep all personal belongings, including stringers of fish, closely attended.
• Respect Habitat and Cultural Resource Protection Sites: Stay on established trails and boardwalks in the Sanctuary Area, campground, and Russian River Ferry areas. Use public restroom facilities in these areas.
• Bear Awareness: Always be bear aware. Keep a clean camp and store food and fish properly. Stay alert and make noise to avoid surprising bears.

Gear for Fly-Fishing-Only Waters:

• One unweighted, single hook, unbaited fly with a gap between point and shank of 3/8″ or less is allowed.
• The fly must weigh less than 1/4 oz. Artificial flies are defined on page 8.
• If weights are used, they must be at least 18″ ahead of the fly.

Map Information:

• Area A: Includes Sportsman’s Landing (mi. 55)
• Area B: Kenai-Russian River Ferry
• Fishing Gear Restrictions: Fly-fishing-only waters require specific gear, as outlined above.

Make sure to plan your fishing trip soon to take advantage of this early opening, and always stay informed about local regulations and conditions. Happy fishing!