(Soldotna) - In favor of protecting returning king salmon and ensuring sport fishing opportunities in the future, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is closing the early-run king salmon sport fishery in the Kenai River drainage from its mouth upstream to the outlet of Skilak Lake effective 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, May 1 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 2024. Fishing for king salmon of any size, including catch-and-release, is prohibited. King salmon caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. As a reminder only unbaited, single-hook, artificial lures may be used.

The 2024 preseason forecast for Kenai River early-run king salmon is 2,630 large fish (fish greater than 34 inches in length). The total run forecast is less than the optimum escapement goal range of 3,900 – 6,600 fish. If realized, the 2024 run would rank as one of the poorest runs in 38 years.

“In an effort to protect Kenai River early-run king salmon and remain in compliance with the management plan, the early-run king salmon fishery is closed to sport fishing,” stated Area Management Biologist Phill Stacey.

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Phill Stacey at
(907) 260-2920, or (907) 267-2324.

#24-3645