When planning your fishing trip to Alaska, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is where to fish. Two of the most productive and scenic rivers in the state—the Kenai River and the Kasilof River—are both located on the Kenai Peninsula and offer unforgettable experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
At Kenai Fly Fish, we guide trips on both rivers, and each one offers its own unique adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer, a family, or a seasoned salmon hunter, here’s how to choose between the Kenai vs. Kasilof for your next Alaska fishing trip.
📍 The Basics – Location & Access
Kenai River:
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The most famous river in Alaska
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Runs 82 miles from Kenai Lake to Cook Inlet
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Easily accessed from towns like Soldotna, Kenai, and Cooper Landing
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Power boats allowed in many sections
Kasilof River:
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Just 12 miles south of the Kenai River
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Flows from Tustumena Lake to Cook Inlet
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Motor-free drift boat only river
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More secluded, quieter, and less pressured
Both rivers are less than 30 minutes apart, so it’s easy to fish both during your stay—but choosing the right one for your primary trip can shape your experience.
🎣 Fishing Style & Trip Vibe
Kenai River – Power Boat Access, Big Water, Big Fish
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Great for covering a lot of river quickly
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Ideal for combo days (salmon + trout)
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Active, fast-paced fishing
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More fishing pressure and boat traffic during peak season
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Perfect for anglers who want action and variety
Kasilof River – Drift Boat Only, Peaceful & Intimate
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Motorless = quiet, relaxing, and scenic
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Ideal for sockeye and silver salmon runs
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Great for first-timers, families, and nature photographers
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Fewer boats, more wildlife encounters
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Excellent for those wanting a slower, more serene experience
🐟 What Can You Catch?
Kenai River Target Species
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Sockeye Salmon (June–August)
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Silver Salmon (August–October)
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Rainbow Trout & Dolly Varden (June–November)
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Steelhead (Late August–October)
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❌ No King Salmon in 2025
Kasilof River Target Species
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Sockeye Salmon (June–July)
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Silver Salmon (August–September)
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Pink Salmon (August, even years)
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✅ Hatchery King Salmon (May–July – only river with kings in 2025!)
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Dolly Varden
🧭 Which River Is Right for You?
| Angler Type | Recommended River | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Families with kids | 🛶 Kasilof River | Calm water, no motors, great wildlife viewing |
| First-time Alaska visitors | 🛶 Kasilof or ⚡ Kenai | Both offer scenic views and active fish—Kasilof is more relaxed |
| Hardcore trout anglers | ⚡ Kenai River | Legendary rainbow trout fishing, larger water access |
| Salmon harvest/fill the freezer | 🛶 Kasilof or ⚡ Kenai | Both offer strong sockeye/silver runs—Kasilof is quieter |
| Photography & nature lovers | 🛶 Kasilof River | Wildlife encounters, peaceful drifts |
| Multi-species fishing combos | ⚡ Kenai River | Easy to target both trout and salmon in one trip |
📸 The X-Factors
Kenai River:
✅ More infrastructure and access
✅ Power boat = cover more ground
✅ More famous, more fishable miles
Kasilof River:
✅ No motors—just the sound of the water
✅ Perfect for spotting eagles, moose, and bears
✅ Ideal “Alaska float” experience
🎣 Why Not Both?
Many guests book a day on each river to experience the full range of what Alaska fishing has to offer. If you’re here for a few days, we can set you up with a combo itinerary to fish both rivers based on timing, species, and run strength.
📞 Ready to Choose Your Alaska River?
Whether you’re chasing your first salmon or hunting trophy trout, Kenai Fly Fish is ready to guide your Alaska fishing adventure.
📞 Call or text Ian McDonald: (907) 301-6957
🌐 Explore trip options: kenaiflyfish.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
📸 Follow the river action: @kenaiflyfish
🐟 Kenai or Kasilof? You Can’t Go Wrong.
Each river offers something special.
Pick your pace, pick your species, and let’s fish.
