Kenai River King Salmon Fish Counts
Accurate, up-to-date, and historical sonar fish counts tracking both early and late run King Salmon on the Kenai River.
Understanding Kenai River Chinook Runs
The Kenai River supports two distinct runs of Chinook (King) salmon each year, monitored by sonar near river mile 8.6. The sonar operates from mid-May through late August, counting fish as they migrate upstream to spawn.
🕐 Early Run (May 16 – June 30)
Smaller fish averaging 20-30 lbs, headed primarily for upper tributaries.
🕐 Late Run (July 1 – August 27)
Larger "Kenai Kings" averaging 30-50+ lbs that spawn in the mainstem.
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About Kenai River King Salmon Fishing
The Kenai River in Southcentral Alaska is world-renowned for producing trophy-class Chinook (King) salmon. Located on the Kenai Peninsula approximately 150 miles south of Anchorage, near the city of Soldotna, this 82-mile river holds the world record for the largest sport-caught King salmon—a massive 97 pounds 4 ounces caught in 1985. The Kenai River remains one of Alaska's premier destinations for anglers pursuing these legendary fish.
Fish are monitored by sonar near river mile 8.6, counting salmon as they migrate upstream. The sonar operates from mid-May through late August, providing daily escapement data that helps anglers and fisheries managers track run strength in real time.
Early Run Fishing Tips
The early run Chinook salmon migration occurs from mid-May through June, with fish headed primarily for upper tributaries of the Kenai River system. These fish average 20-30 pounds—smaller than their late-run counterparts but excellent table fare. Peak early run fishing typically falls between June 1 and June 20. Early run Kings are often targeted with back-trolling and back-bouncing techniques in the middle and upper river sections.
Late Run Fishing Tips
The late run brings the legendary "Kenai Kings"—the largest Chinook salmon in the world, averaging 30-50+ pounds with fish exceeding 70 pounds caught each season. These fish spawn in the mainstem Kenai River. Peak late run fishing typically occurs from July 10 through July 31. The lower river from Soldotna to the confluence with the Moose River is particularly productive during this period. Guided drift boat trips are popular for targeting these trophy fish.
Understanding Escapement & Regulations
Tracking Kenai River Chinook salmon escapement is critical for both conservation and fishing opportunity. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game actively manages the fishery based on in-season run strength. When escapement goals appear at risk, emergency restrictions may be implemented, including reduced bag limits, gear restrictions, or temporary closures. Conversely, strong runs may result in liberalized regulations.
Early run goals (3,900-6,600 fish) are typically assessed by late June, while late run goals (15,000-30,000 fish) are evaluated throughout July and August. Anglers should monitor emergency orders and check current regulations before fishing, as conditions can change rapidly based on sonar counts.