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Alaska silver salmon, also known as coho salmon, represent one of Alaska’s most exciting fall fisheries. These aggressive fighters, weighing between 8-16 pounds, arrive in the river system from early August through November, providing anglers with exceptional fishing opportunities after the sockeye and king salmon runs have concluded.
The Kenai River supports two distinct runs of silver salmon. The early run starts in August, peaking late in the month, while the late run arrives from mid-September through November. Recent studies by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game estimate annual returns ranging from 80,000 to 150,000 fish. It can feel like one long run of salmon since the two waves of fish arrive back to back and usually overlap somewhat, but the genetic populations are distinct. The early fish are usually smaller, averaging 6-10 pounds, and the late run fish are 8-12 pounds. Some specimens have even weighed in at 15+ pounds. Silvers move through the river often holding in slow water areas.
Kenai River silvers spend approximately 1-3 years in freshwater after hatching from the gravel, followed by another 18 months in the ocean. This results in most fish returning as three-year-olds, though some males, known as “jacks,” return prematurely.
Adult silver salmon entering the Kenai display distinctive characteristics. They’re bright silver with black spots on the back, similar to kings (though the spots are smaller). However, their mouths do not have the same black colored gums as king salmon. As they mature in freshwater, males develop deep red sides and prominently hooked jaws. Females also turn deep red.
Each species of salmon entering the Kenai has specific areas ideal for spawning. Silvers primarily spawn in small tributaries and the upper river. Radiotelemetry studies have shown that these fish may spend several weeks moving up and down the river before selecting their final spawning location.
Female silver salmon construct a nest, or redd, in the gravel riverbed in water depths of 1-3 feet with moderate current velocities. Each female deposits approximately 2,400-4,500 eggs, which are buried in the gravel and incubate through the winter months.
Juvenile rearing habitat includes complex cover elements such as undercut banks, woody debris, and deep pools. These areas provide protection from predators and create feeding stations where young silvers can efficiently capture drifting food. Silver fry feed voraciously on aquatic insects and plankton and spend 1-3 years in small tributary streams before migrating to the ocean as smolt. Once at sea, a silver salmon’s diet consists of small fish and squid.
When mature silvers return to the river for spawning, their aggressive feeding tendencies make them particularly susceptible to artificial lures and flies.
Silver salmon, also known as coho salmon, provide some of the most exciting fishing opportunities in Alaska. Their acrobatic fights, aggressive strikes, and high-quality fillets make them a favorite among anglers. The prime time to target silver salmon in Alaska spans from late July through September, with peak fishing times varying by location.
Kenai River: The Kenai River sees its first run of silvers in late July, but the real action kicks off with the second run in mid to late August. This is when coho salmon are most abundant, providing thrilling opportunities for anglers casting spinners, drifting bait, or fly fishing. With the Kenai’s scenic beauty and rich waters, it’s a must-visit destination for coho enthusiasts.
Kasilof River: The Kasilof River offers an equally rewarding experience, with a strong run of silver salmon peaking in August and September. The quieter atmosphere of the Kasilof, often explored by drift boat, provides a serene and productive environment for catching silvers.
For anglers planning their Alaska Silver Salmon fishing trip, the late summer and early fall season offer not only incredible fishing but also breathtaking views of Alaska’s changing landscapes. The Kenai and Kasilof Rivers are prime destinations for landing these prized fish and creating lifelong memories.
