ADF&G Emergency Orders
Alaska fisheries are managed in real-time. The Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G) issues Emergency Orders (EOs) to restrict or liberalize fishing based on live sonar counts and escapement goals.
Kenai River King Salmon Fishery Closed
Effective Dates: May 1, 2026 through August 15, 2026
By emergency order of the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, the Kenai River is entirely closed to sport fishing for King (Chinook) Salmon. This closure encompasses both the early run and late run to protect historically low returns of wild King Salmon.
- No Targeting: Anglers may not intentionally target King Salmon.
- Catch & Release: Any King Salmon caught incidentally while fishing for other species must be released immediately without being removed from the water.
- Bait Restrictions: Current bait restrictions for other species on the Kenai River also apply during this timeframe.
Our Pivot Strategy
Our guides fully support ADF&G's conservation measures. During this closure, we transition our trips to target the massive runs of Sockeye Salmon and Trophy Rainbow Trout on the Kenai River, or migrate trips to the Kasilof River where hatchery King Salmon harvest may still be permitted.
Kasilof River Early-Run King Salmon Restrictions
Effective Dates: May 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026
To ensure adequate escapement of wild Crooked Creek King Salmon while still allowing for the harvest of hatchery fish, the following regulations are in effect on the Kasilof River:
- Hatchery Only: Only hatchery-produced King Salmon (missing an adipose fin) may be retained.
- Wild Release: Wild King Salmon (adipose fin intact) must be released immediately in the water.
- Gear Restrictions: Only one unbaited, single-hook, artificial lure may be used.
For the official and most up-to-date Emergency Orders, please visit the State of Alaska's Department of Fish & Game website.
Visit ADF&G Official EO Page