Deshka River Coho (Silver) Salmon Fish Counts
Real-time and historical weir counts tracking Coho (Silver) salmon on the Deshka River—a remote Susitna River tributary facing recent conservation challenges.
Understanding Deshka River Coho Runs
The Deshka River is a 44-mile tributary of the Susitna River in Southcentral Alaska. Coho salmon are counted at a weir as they migrate upstream to spawn. Historically known for productive Silver salmon runs, the Deshka has experienced concerning declines in recent years, prompting management restrictions.
🐟 Coho Run (Late July – End of September)
Silver salmon typically begin arriving in late July, with peak passage occurring in August through mid-September. The weir operates from approximately July 25 through October 1. Most fishing occurs in the mouth area and lower 7 miles of river.
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About Deshka River Coho Salmon Fishing
The Deshka River is a 44-mile tributary of the Susitna River in Southcentral Alaska, located approximately 60 miles north of Anchorage. Historically renowned for excellent Silver salmon fishing, the Deshka has experienced significant Coho declines in recent years, leading to progressive restrictions and eventual closure of the retention fishery in 2025.
Recent Conservation Concerns
The Deshka River Coho population has fallen dramatically below its Sustainable Escapement Goal (SEG) of 10,200-24,100 fish:
• 2025: Only 3,869 Coho counted—fishery closed to retention August 21
• Historical Average (2005-2014): 18,684 fish annually
In 2025, ADF&G implemented emergency restrictions: bag limits were reduced to one fish on August 15, bait was prohibited, and the fishery was fully closed to retention on August 21. These measures aimed to protect the remaining spawning stock.
Run Timing & Peak Fishing
Deshka River Coho salmon typically arrive in late July, with peak passage in August through mid-September. The weir operates from approximately July 25 through October 1. When the fishery is open, most angling occurs in the mouth area and lower 7 miles of the river where fish congregate before moving upstream.
Weir Monitoring
Coho salmon have been counted through a weir on the Deshka River since 1995, providing nearly 30 years of escapement data. This long-term monitoring is essential for tracking population trends and informing management decisions. The weir provides accurate daily counts as salmon migrate upstream to spawn.
Access & Location
The Deshka River is located within a roadless area, requiring boat or floatplane access:
• Primary Access: Jetboat from Deshka Landing near Willow
• Distance: Four river miles downstream on the Susitna River to the Deshka mouth
• Best Fishing Areas: Mouth area and lower 7 miles of river
• Alternative Access: Floatplane to upriver locations
The remote setting and pristine wilderness add to the fishing experience, though anglers should plan carefully and bring appropriate equipment for river travel.
Fishing Regulations
Due to conservation concerns, regulations on the Deshka River are subject to emergency orders. When open, standard regulations typically allow:
• Bag Limit: 3 Coho salmon per day (reduced to 1 during restrictions)
• Possession Limit: 6 Coho salmon
• Bait: Allowed unless prohibited by emergency order
• Multiple Hooks: Allowed unless restricted
Always check current ADF&G emergency orders before fishing, as regulations can change quickly based on real-time run assessments.
Other Fishing Opportunities
While Coho fishing may be restricted, the Deshka River offers additional angling opportunities:
• Pink Salmon: Strong runs in even years (June-August)
• Chum Salmon: Available July through mid-August
• Rainbow Trout: Catch-and-release during salmon runs
• Arctic Grayling: Present throughout the river system
Tracking Deshka River Coho fish counts helps anglers understand run timing and strength, while the escapement data supports conservation efforts essential for rebuilding this once-productive Silver salmon fishery.