Kenai River - The Angler’s Choice

1. Kenai River - The Angler’s Choice Among the many locations for fishing, Kenai River has remained the choice of game fishing enthusiasts for long. And this is not without reason. The river in Alaska is one among the few places where all five species of salmon are available. With dwindling shoals of fish, especially the salmon, the Kenai River has become one of the most popular for game fishing. In addition to the different salmon varieties, the river also boasts of more than 40 different varieties of fish. This makes the river a favorite among anglers for Alaska fishing trips, with a large number of charters catering to the needs of the visitors. Here is all that you need to know to make your trip fulfilling and exciting. All about the different varieties of salmon Salmon are anadromous varieties of fish - born in freshwater, maturing in salt water and returning to freshwater to spawn. By virtue of this need for freshwater and saltwater, Salmon is found in limited natural habitats. And the coastal waters of Alaska and British Columbia are the more famed habitats of salmon. Therefore, when you do get aboard a charter on the river Kenai for Alaska fishing trips, you can be sure that you are fishing for arguably the best of the salmon. Know more about a few varieties, which will help you have a better experience of Alaska salmon fishing trip. King Salmon This is a very large variety with an average size of 40 pounds, very small eyes and dark gums which earn it the nickname “blackmouths”. The fish has scaling which is either blue or green mix with white sides and underbelly. The flesh is typically orange or white with a pale tint. The best fishing technique for this variety is to keep a rigid bait with tight and short line which will give you full control over the Salmon. The Alaskan waters are home to some of the best King Salmon in the world, with the river Kenai accounting for 8 out of 10 of the largest king salmon in the world. The ideal time to look for Alaska salmon fishing trip packages would be the month of May, June or July to land a big catch with the help of experienced guides. Red Salmon The Red Salmon is considered a prize catch as this variety is known to not fall for lures easily. As a result, individuals and groups are known to use a different set of techniques to hook them. This is popularly known as flossing or tight lining. The months between May to August are the best for fishing this variety during Alaska salmon fishing trip. The waters of the Kenia have a reputation of being home to the biggest Red Salmon run in the world with estimates up to one and a half million run up every year.

2. Silver Salmon The Silver Salmon fish, true to its name has an overall base color with different shades of silver from head to tail, with a dark silver color on the back. The fins are transparent and contrast sharply with the body color. The Silver Salmon reaches almost 25 inches and the specie is averse to fast-moving waters, preferring the sedate pace of slower rivers. The months between July to end of November are ideal for Silver Salmon fishing in the Kenai River. By virtue ofbeing aggressive feeders, the fish easily lands in artificial baits and lures and are relatively easier to hook than other varieties of salmon. Pink salmon Also known as humpy salmon, the pink salmon is the most abundant species found in Alaska. The fish changes color from silvery to olive when entering freshwater, and are known to develop dark patches along the back and sides. Not only is this variety the most abundant, it is also the easiest among all the species to catch. The fish easily falls for most bait, and all fly patterns, including spinners and spoons. If you happen to be a novice or if you have kids along on your trip, then it would be a good option to go for this variety as you will not return disappointed. Dog Salmon Popularly known as dog salmon, this variety is the most abundant across certain locations in Alaska, especially the Kuskokwim River. It is distinct by its dull gray back with yellow silver sides. The fish earned its tag of ‘dog’ salmon because of its history of feeding the sled dogs in Western Alaska. Incidentally, it also has large teeth that have a striking resemblance to those of dogs. The fish is also a great fighter and if you happen to get a bite, then you need to be ready for an unexpected fight. It has the energy for long runs and it would be a good idea to learn more about the best tactics to land it, before you try your hand.