What You Can Do on the Kenai River in May (Even Without Salmon Fishing)

Posted May 16, 2025 · Add Comment

Think there’s nothing to do on the Kenai River in May because the salmon haven’t arrived yet?
Think again.

May is a quiet, magical month in Alaska — and while the famous sockeye and silver runs are still weeks away, there’s plenty to do on the river if you’re looking for solitude, scenery, and light adventure.

At Kenai Fly Fish, we guide more than just fishing trips — we help people connect with the river.
Here’s how you can enjoy Alaska’s Kenai River in May, even if you’re not casting for salmon.

🛶 1. Scenic Float Trips – Wild and Wide Open

In May, the Kenai River flows cold and clear, surrounded by snowy peaks and budding forests.
Our drift boat scenic floats are peaceful, wildlife-rich, and perfect for:

🦅 Spotting bald eagles in cottonwoods
🐻 Watching bears explore thawing gravel bars
🦌 Seeing moose crossing side channels
📷 Snapping quiet, photo-worthy moments

✅ Great for photographers, nature lovers, and non-anglers looking to explore Alaska in a gentle, quiet way.

🎣 2. Fly Casting Lessons & Gear Clinics

If you’re new to Alaska or want to sharpen your skills before summer, May is the perfect time to:

🎯 Practice your fly cast on quiet banks
🧰 Learn how to rig bead setups and leaders
🔁 Test different rods, reels, and waders before your big trip
🧠 Ask a guide anything you’ve ever wondered about river fishing

✅ No pressure, no fish on the line — just time to learn and get confident.

🐟 3. Plan & Prep for June–August Fishing

Even if you’re not fishing in May, it’s the best month to prep for the heart of Alaska’s fishing season:

✅ Book prime salmon dates
✅ Scout launch spots and river sections
✅ Dial in your gear, license, and logistics
✅ Add optional extras like meals or fish packaging

🎯 Think of it as preseason — but with better scenery.

🐾 4. Wildlife Viewing & Kenai River Photography

May is wildlife central on the Kenai:

🦅 Eagles nesting and hunting
🐻 Bears returning to the river
🦊 Foxes, moose, lynx, and waterfowl all active
🏔️ Glacial melt, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains everywhere

Bring your camera. You’re not likely to see crowds — just nature at its finest.

🌤️ Why May Is Special (Even Without Salmon)

Light traffic = peace and privacy
Long days = sunlight for miles
Warm afternoons + cool mornings = perfect float weather
Prime time for solo travelers, photographers, and locals
It’s the only time of year the Kenai feels this empty

✅ This is the river before the rush — and it’s something you’ll never forget.

📦 What We Provide on May Trips

✔️ Comfortable drift boat access
✔️ Local guide to interpret wildlife, river history, and stories
✔️ Optional casting gear for practice
✔️ Waders, boots, rods, reels (if requested)
✔️ Flexible start times and float lengths
✔️ Optional meals, coffee, or hot drinks on the boat