The Middle Kenai

The middle Kenai River is the longest of the three sections and flows from the outlet of Skilak Lake to the Sterling Highway Bridge. According to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources roughly 14% of the Kenai River's guide services operate on this section of the river, making it the least utilized section of the River.

For a distance of about 10 miles from Skilak Lake to Naptowne Rapids there are a number of quality trout and salmon holes including Rainbow Alley, Super Hole, and Thompson's Hole. The first four miles of the middle river flows within the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge with the only access point for boats at the lower Skilak Lake landing. You can also utilize the put-in at Bing's Landing and jet upriver. Portions of the river in this area can be up to 15 feet deep.

Downstream of the Naptowne Rapids is the Isaac Walton Park boat launch at the Moose River confluence in Sterling. Be aware that there are two areas closed to fishing in this section, Morgan's Landing and Funny River.