Contact:
Robert Begich
Area Management Biologist
Phone: 907-262-9368

 The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is lifting restrictions to the early-run king salmon fishery on the Kasilof River and restoring the fishery to existing sport fish regulation. This change will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, June 18.

Regulations for the Kasilof River king salmon fishery can be found on page 57 of the 2016 Southcentral sport fishing regulation book.

Under existing sport fish regulations for the Kasilof River early-run king fishery, anglers may use bait and multiple hooks in the area open to fishing for king salmon. In addition, anglers are allowed to harvest hatchery-produced king salmon seven days per week and one naturally-produced king salmon on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays only each week. Naturally-produced king salmon are distinguished from hatchery-produced king salmon in the Kasilof River by the presence of an adipose fin. The adipose fin is the small fleshy fin on the back just ahead of the tail.

“Over the past few years, the department has increased the number of king salmon stocked by 50 percent at Crooked Creek, which feeds into the Kasilof River,” Robert Begich, the Area Management Biologist said. “It’s evident that we are seeing a stronger return of hatchery-run king salmon in the Kasilof River this year. Based on inseason information, which includes data from inriver assessment programs and catch data from guide logbooks, we are able to lift early-run king salmon restrictions.”

For more information, contact Robert Begich or Jason Pawluk in Soldotna at 907-262-9368.