(Palmer) – To protect returning king salmon and increase fishing opportunities in the future, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is implementing the following sport fishing regulations for Units 1-6 of the Susitna River drainage and for the Little Susitna River effective 6:00 a.m. Friday, May 1 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 13, 2026:

• Sport fishing for king salmon is closed. King salmon may not be targeted or retained and incidentally caught king salmon may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately.
• Sport fishing gear is limited to one unbaited, single-hook, artificial lure with a gap between the point and shank of the hook of one-half inch or less.

Sport fishing for other species will be allowed seven days per week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Bait may be used when sport fishing for burbot only. For a complete description of these waters, anglers should refer to the Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary.

King salmon stocks in Northern Cook Inlet, continue to experience a period of low productivity, and the forecast for the Deshka River is historically low. “Historic low escapements were experienced area wide in 2024-2025 and no king salmon goals were made in the Northern Cook Inlet management area in 2023-2025,” stated Area Management Biologist Samantha Oslund. “ADF&G staff understand the frustrations and tremendous impact closing this fishery has on anglers, local businesses, and guides. However, there is every indication that the 2026 king salmon returns will not have a harvestable surplus”.

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Samantha Oslund at (907) 746-6300.

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