Now Booking For 2026
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The Kasilof River flows 17 miles from Tustumena Lake to Cook Inlet, and is home to numerous runs of salmon and steelhead. This glacial-fed river winds through the heart of the Kenai Peninsula and parts of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, carving a path through wild Alaska and providing crucial spawning habitat for multiple species of salmon and steelhead.
The Kasilof is born from Tustumena Lake, the largest body of freshwater on the Kenai Peninsula. The river carries the melt water from Tustumena Glacier and surrounding Kenai Mountains. Due to the glacial origins, the river has a high turbidity and flows in a range of colors from turquoise to grey-ish blue. Huge boulders deposited by retreating glaciers dot the gentle bends and sweeping corners of the stream, adding rapids and interest to this river’s journey to Cook Inlet. At the lower tidal sections, the banks are cut from silty grass covered banks that flood with each incoming tide.
Moose browse along the banks, with many cows and new calves in the area in early summer. The lower tidal sections hold wading birds and waterfowl such as norther shovelers and mallards, and mergansers.
The upper river features faster water and defined gravel bars. As it progresses downstream, the river widens and slows, creating more extensive gravel bars and side channels.
Sockeye salmon surge remarkably into the Kasilof River each summer, with annual runs often exceeding half a million fish. This massive migration typically kicks off in mid-June. It continues through July as the brilliant, silver-sided salmon push upstream toward Tustumena Lake and its network of tributary streams for spawning. During the peak of the run, their overwhelming presence can turn sections of the glacial river a red, creating a spectacle that draws anglers worldwide.
Although sockeye is scattered throughout the river, most fishing occurs in the upper stretches, where these salmon briefly pause on their journey. Known for their firm, richly flavored meat, sockeye are a prized catch for recreational fishermen and anyone seeking fresh, high-quality salmon. Whether you use conventional gear or opt for fly-fishing techniques, hooking into one of these powerful fish in the swift current is a thrilling experience, showcasing why the Kasilof is renowned for its prolific sockeye runs.
Silver Salmon begin their annual migration into the Kasilof River in early August, continuing to arrive in healthy numbers well through September, and even into October. Averaging between 8 and 12 pounds—though some exceptional fish can top 15 pounds—these energetic salmon are renowned for their aggressive strikes and spirited fights. The cool glacial waters of the Kasilof amplify their tenacity, making for adrenaline-fueled battles that keep anglers returning each season.
Often referred to as Coho Salmon, Silvers are prized for both their superb table fare and the true angling experience they provide once hooked. We catch them on a variety of techniques, from drift-fishing with cured eggs to casting spinners, spoons, or flies. Anglers who bass fish in the lower 48 will find casting spoons and spinner very similar to beating the banks for bass.
Steelhead—ocean-going rainbow trout—offer one of the most rewarding angling experiences on the Kasilof River. These fish typically move into the river from late summer through fall, bringing an added layer of excitement once the major salmon runs begin to wane. Known for their sleek, powerful builds and acrobatic fights, Kasilof steelhead test both skill and persistence, rewarding anglers who appreciate the art of reading water and presenting the right lure or fly.
A drift boat approach allows for a stealthy float down the river’s scenic lower stretches, offering the chance to cover prime holding water while basking in the beauty of the Kenai Peninsula’s rugged backdrop. Whether you favor swing tactics with spey rods, bobber-dogging, or drifting beads and egg patterns, the Kasilof’s glacial waters and the steelhead’s aggressive nature promise plenty of thrilling hook-ups. While regulations may dictate a catch-and-release policy to protect this prized fishery, the thrill of hooking a wild Kasilof steelhead—and watching it rocket across the river—remains an unforgettable highlight of any Alaskan fishing adventure.
Discover some of Alaska’s best salmon fishing on the Kasilof River with Drifters Lodge. Our seasoned guides bring years of local expertise, ensuring each outing is both productive and enjoyable. Whether you’re after King, Sockeye, or Silver Salmon, we tailor every trip to your skill level, offering personalized tips on technique, gear, and reading the water. Drifting along this glacial-fed river, you’ll savor the serene scenery while gaining a deeper appreciation for its vibrant ecosystem. With comfortable drift boats and a focus on exceptional service, Drifters Lodge makes every adventure memorable—perfect for anglers who crave both the thrill of the catch and the beauty of Alaska’s wild frontier.
Contact us to book a half or full day guided fishing trip or to start building a package.
