The Upper Kenai

The upper section of the Kenai River is world renown for its quality of trout, dollies, and fresh sockeye Salmon. The river starts near the peaceful town of Cooper Landing and quickly becomes class one rapids. It is the drift-only section of water on the Kenai. The public boat launch at the Kenai Lake outlet provides access to the upper stretches of the river. The river flows gently past various businesses in Cooper Landing before reaching its most famous tributary, the Russian River.

Just past the Russian River confluence is another boat launch with a ferry that takes anglers across the Kenai River to fertile fishing grounds. This can be shoulder to shoulder fishing during one of the two sockeye runs. From here to Jim's Landing is some of the most picturesque scenery in Alaska containing exceptional Dolly Varden and trout opportunities.

The first 12 miles of the upper Kenai flows at a nice leisurely pace before being funneled through the Kenai Canyon. This two mile stretch is fast and provides enough whitewater to excite experienced floaters and kayakers. Experienced oarsman can find excellent fishing in this section of the river. After exiting Kenai Canyon the river flows at a gentler pace for about three miles before emptying into Skilak Lake. Fishing for king salmon is prohibited in the upper Kenai. rainbow trout are catch and release only including in Skilak Lake within one half-mile of the river.