This past week we were in the catch enough fish for dinner phase of the run and not the fill up the freezer phase. We caught fish every time we were out, but so far the run has been small. Since July 1st, the lowest daily count of red salmon crossing the sonar counter has been 2,598. The most has been 8,064. Very soon the bulk of the run should hit the river and we’ll have double and even triple digit days.
Texans Robert, Danielle, Robert Allen, and Clifton last fished the Kenai during the 2020 pink and silver salmon run. They knew they wouldn’t have the same action coming early in July, but this time worked best for their schedule. Anytime on the river is better than no time on the river.
Fifteen minutes into our first day of fishing, Robert Daniel caught this beautiful fish.
Later in the day, Robert Daniel landed another beauty. We had a few other fish on, but that was it for the day.
Our next day of fishing started with Clifton landing a hard earned red salmon. Later in the day, Danielle caught a gorgeous, 10lb red salmon. Lots of flips, but not much to show for it.
In between their river trips, Team Texas spent a day fishing in Homer with Boo. Definitely more willing biters than what they found on the river.
I really enjoyed my time getting caught up with Robert, Danielle, Robert Daniel, and Clifton. I’m amazed how much the boys have grown since I first met them. They are both fine young men and mom and dad are doing a great job raising them. Also, I do appreciate becoming an honorary Aggie (or at least an honorary Texan).
I finished the week fishing with Chad and his son Nick. We had just a couple of hours to fish and the goal was fresh salmon for dinner.
Mission accomplished.
Based on the reports coming from the dipnet zone Saturday afternoon, the red salmon are starting to hit the river in big numbers. That gives me great optimism for bank anglers in the week ahead. Come back next Sunday to see how we did.
Fishing Report Week Ending 7/9/23