Now Booking For 2026
Now Booking For 2026
June marks the beginning of an incredible fishing season in Alaska, and the Kenai River stands as a premier destination for anglers seeking world-class action. With the Kenai River opener on June 11th, the arrival of early-run king salmon on the Kasilof River, and the renowned sockeye salmon fishery on the Russian River, June offers a diverse and thrilling experience for every angler. At Drifters Lodge, located in the heart of Cooper Landing, we’re ready to guide you to the best fishing that Alaska has to offer during this exciting month.
The June 11th Kenai River opener is a highly anticipated event for anglers, signaling the start of the trophy rainbow trout fishing season. As the water begins to clear and the king salmon make their way upriver, these resident giants become increasingly active. Drifters Lodge, situated right on the banks of the Kenai, provides unparalleled access to these prime fishing grounds. Our experienced guides know the river intimately and will put you on the best spots to target these magnificent fish using various techniques. Whether you prefer fly fishing or conventional tackle, we’ll tailor your trip to your preferences and skill level.
While the salmon runs are a major draw, the Kenai River is also home to some of the largest rainbow trout in the world. In June, these fish are actively feeding and preparing for the upcoming salmon spawn. This presents an excellent opportunity to target trophy-sized trout on the fly or with conventional gear. Drifters Lodge guides are experts at finding these elusive fish and can help you hone your skills for a truly unforgettable experience. These fish are strictly catch and release on this section of the river.
The Russian River’s early run of sockeye salmon typically begins in early June, building to peak numbers by mid-month. This crystal-clear tributary of the Kenai River offers one of Alaska’s most accessible salmon fisheries, with a well-maintained trail system providing easy access to prime fishing spots.
The Russian River Ferry marks the starting point for most anglers, providing access to both sides of the river. From here, anglers can walk upstream along either bank, finding countless productive spots along the way. The famous Russian River Falls, located about two miles upstream, creates a natural stopping point for salmon, making the pools below particularly productive.
The river’s clarity allows anglers to spot incoming schools of sockeye, making sight fishing possible. These bright red salmon often travel in groups, moving from pool to pool as they make their way upstream. The confluence area, where the Russian meets the Kenai River, often holds large numbers of fish, particularly during incoming tides.
During June’s nearly endless daylight, productive fishing can happen around the clock. Early mornings often see fresh pushes of fish moving upstream, while evening hours frequently provide excellent action as temperatures cool. The Russian River lies within bear country, so proper precautions and awareness remain essential.
June represents the peak of early-run King salmon fishing on both the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. These early-run Kings, while typically smaller than the late-run giants of July, are renowned for their aggressive nature and powerful fights.
The Kasilof River provides excellent opportunities throughout June, with its smaller water size creating perfect conditions for drift boat fishing. The more intimate setting of the Kasilof allows for precise presentations and exciting close-quarters battles with these powerful fish.
On the Kenai River, the early run builds through June, providing opportunities to target Kings in the lower river sections. These fresh-from-the-ocean fish often still carry sea-lice, indicating their recent arrival and ensuring they’re at their fighting peak.
June offers nearly round-the-clock fishing opportunities thanks to Alaska’s long daylight hours. The weather typically stabilizes, providing comfortable fishing conditions with daytime temperatures perfect for being on the water. While afternoon showers remain possible, June generally offers more stable weather than later summer months.
Water conditions in June remain ideal, with moderate flows and good visibility. The Kenai River hasn’t yet seen the heavy glacial melt of summer, making it easier to spot fish and present your offerings effectively. This combination of clear water and active fish creates perfect conditions for multiple fishing techniques.
At Drifters Lodge, we’re passionate about providing our guests with exceptional Alaska fishing experiences. Our prime location on the Kenai River in Cooper Landing puts you at the doorstep of world-class fishing. Our experienced guides will share their knowledge and expertise, ensuring you have the best chance of success. We offer a variety of fishing packages to suit your needs, from single-day trips to all-inclusive adventures. Plus, our comfortable lodge accommodations provide a relaxing retreat after a day on the water.
Contact us to plan your June fishing adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of trophy rainbow trout, hard-fighting Kings, or chrome-bright sockeye, June offers the perfect opportunity to experience the finest fishing Alaska has to offer.
