(Soldotna) – To protect returning king salmon and ensure 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 downstream of the outlet of Skilak Lake effective 12:01 a.m. Thursday, May 1, 2025 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, June 30. Fishing for king salmon of any size, including catch-and-release, is closed in the Kenai River from its mouth upstream to the outlet of Skilak Lake. King salmon caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately.

The 2025 preseason forecast for Kenai River early-run king salmon is 1,531 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 2025 run would rank as the 2^nd lowest run in 38 years.

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

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

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