When to go Salmon Fishing for Alaska King Salmon

When people talk about Alaska Salmon fishing they usually mean going fishing in Alaska for King or Chinook salmon (same fish - different name) and for good reason. In 1985, the World Angling Record was established for Chinook Salmon at 97 pounds 4 ounces in the Kenai River, Alaska and in 1949 a 126 pounds salmon as was caught commercially near Pertersberg, Alaska.

Because the salmon "run" in different areas at different times, it is critical to know when to go before you decide to book an Alaska salmon fishing trip. Pick the right place and the wrong time and you may experience a less than fulfilling fishing experience.

• Freshwater - July
• Saltwater - May, June, July

• Prince William Sound: Upper Copper/Upper Sustina Rivers - June, July
• Prince William Sound: Resurrection Bay - January, February, June, November, December
• Kenai Peninsula (salt water) - May, June, July, August
• Kenai Peninsula (fresh water) - Jun, July

• Anchorage, Mantanuska-Susitna (fresh water) - June, July
• West-Side Susitna Drainage, Western Cook Inlet - June, July
• Bristol Bay, Kodiak Island (fresh water) - June, July
• Bristol Bay, Kodiak Island (salt water) - June

• Arctic/Yukon/Kuskokwim: July
• Tanana Area: July

This information shows when the largest king salmon are present in Alaska. It does not mean the area is open for fishing, nor does it guarantee success (duh!).

If you want more information you can see the Alaska Department of Fish & Game website or if you want to see a list of salmon fishing guides, lodges and charter boats in Alaska you can visit my site at www.planyourfishingtrip.com.

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