(Soldotna) - In favor of protecting returning king salmon and ensuring 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 effective 12:01 a.m. Friday, May 1 through June 19, 2026. Fishing for king salmon of any size, including catch-and-release, is closed in the Kenai River drainage. King salmon caught while fishing for other species may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. Sport fishing for other species remains open. Only one unbaited, single-hook, artificial lure may be used.

Conservative management action is also being implemented for Kenai River late-run king salmon, please see separate advisory announcement.

The 2026 preseason forecast for Kenai River early-run king salmon is 2,325 large fish (fish greater than or equal to 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 2026 run would rank as the 5th lowest run on record.

“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 sport fishery is closed until the early-run escapement goal is met,” stated Area Management Biologist Phill Stacey.

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

#26-3979