Fishing on the Kenai Peninsula
Alaska is one of the premier fishing destinations of the world. With annual salmon runs totaling in the millions, our rivers offer some of the most dynamic and productive fishing to be found.
The Kenai Peninsula is often referred to as “Alaska’s Playground”. Centrally located in the stunning Chugach National Forest, Cooper Landing is an excellent place to set up your home base. We are an easy drive away from the beautiful Kenai Fjords National Park out of Seward or Halibut Fishing in the Cook Inlet. Best of all, we are right in the middle of some of the best trout and salmon fishing waters in the world. The Mighty Kenai River, the Russian River, Quartz Creek and the Kasilof River are all easily accessed from our location.
Our season begins in mid-May when the King Salmon begin to arrive. The season ends in Mid-October when the snow begins to fall and the Rainbow Trout are fat and happy. We have assembled some of the best and most passionate guides on the river to cater to all of your fishing needs. Our primary goal is to ensure that every guest, from first timers to clients who return every year, have the trip of a lifetime. We are not satisfied with anything less than greatness and that philosophy echoes throughout our organization. Our fishing guides are fishing fanatics and are on the water the entire year, rain or shine. So, rest assured that when you book a trip with us, you are getting someone who is not only great with people, but knows where the fish are, and will also give you the best chance at hooking into that fish of a lifetime.
Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula is one of the premier fishing destinations in the world. With annual salmon runs totaling in the millions, our rivers offer some of the most dynamic and productive fishing opportunities anywhere.
Fishing lodges and fishing trips are a dime a dozen on the Kenai Peninsula. If you truly seek the ultimate fishing experience, come to Drifters Lodge. Our staff and fishing guides specialize in providing a fishing experience of a lifetime.
We offer a variety of guided fishing trips that take advantage of the incredible opportunities of the Kenai River, Kasilof River, Russian River and many other local streams and alpine lakes.
Trophy Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic Grayling, King, Silver, Sockeye Salmon. It’s all here!
We are dedicated to getting you on the right trips to suit your fishing dreams, and you’ll benefit from our local knowledge and years on the river.
Drifters Lodge is permitted to operate in public lands under special use permits from the Chugach National Forest, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and Alaska State Parks. Drifters Lodge is an equal opportunity provider.
There are many trips available, so you’ll need to decide:
Salmon or Trout?
Do you want to keep fish? Then a salmon a trip is what you need. All of our Rainbow Trout trips are catch and release only.
When are you coming to the Kenai Peninsula?
This is Alaska, and fishing is always great. However, there are certain peak times for salmon runs. Take a look over our run chart or give us a call to discuss dates.
How many of in your group want to fish?
We can accommodate everyone from singles to large groups. We fish four in a boat or three people per guide for a walk-in trip. Private trips are available.
Do you know how to fly fish?
Much of the fishing we do is fly fishing, however spin fishing is also available. If you feel strongly about the techniques and gear you want to use, please let us know.
Whether you are a novice or a well-seasoned angler, you will find fishing opportunities to match your skill level. Our guides are excellent teachers and they are well prepared to help beginners learn the basics and catch their first fish on a fly rod if that is what you desire. If you’re an expert, you still may pick up a few things too. Depending on the weather and species, your guide may recommend a certain type of fishing technique over another, it is still up to you but your guide will make these recommendations based on the most up to date information about your fishing day.
Half or Full day?
How much time do you have for fishing? A half day trout trip is perfect for beginners, kids, and people who don’t have a full day to devote to fishing on their Alaska trip. A full day is great for salmon fishing (gives you a better chance at a limit) and folks who are a little more serious about their fishing.
Drift boat or walk-in?
Depending on the location and what you want to fish for, we either fish from a boat or we walk to the fishing location and wade fish. If you have any concerns about mobility, let us know. Power boats may also be an option. When you call, we will make a recommendation for the best opportunities for you for the day you are inquiring about. It may be that a walk in trip has been most productive or fishing from a drift boat has been the best lately, again, it is completely up to you but we will present you with all options.
