(Palmer) –The main Talkeetna River channel has naturally shifted away from the side channel that historically supplied water to the Talkeetna Landing boat launch area. This change has significantly reduced water levels at the launch site and has compromised using the facility to access the main channel of the Talkeetna River. Prior to planning a trip from the Talkeetna Landing, please be aware that water levels and conditions may fluctuate, and the facility may not be in a condition for safely launching a vessel and accessing the main channel. Other boat launching options in the area include the Susitna Landing and Deshka Landing. Additionally, this year’s low snowpack has resulted in unusually low spring water levels across the region, that are likely to further impact access.
The Talkeetna Landing boat launch was developed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) in 1996. Annual dredging has occurred in recent years in an attempt to maintain adequate water depth at the facility. ADF&G has acquired a permit to dredge the boat launch area this spring and are actively working to provide anglers with safe access at this location. Due to the increasing difficulty with maintaining this site, the department is currently reviewing options for improving the facility for this season and options for a long-term solution to provide safe and reliable sport fishing access to the area. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as work to provide consistent access continues. Updates will be shared as new information becomes available.

For additional information, please contact Andy Garry, Fishery Biologist, in Palmer at (907) 746-6300 or acting Cook Inlet management coordinator, Mike Booz in Homer at (907) 235-8191.

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