Last year, it took until June before a king salmon came to the boat. This year, we got it done in May.
Just barely.
On May 31st, after a three year hiatus, I was reunited with Chuck and Deb. On this visit, they brought their friends Larry and Brenda.
Not too long into the morning, Larry expertly reeled in the first king salmon of the year. It measured 38” and was quickly released. Although it didn’t beat his personal best, it was a great first fish to open the season.
With the first king salmon of the year out of the way, my expectations were high the next day when Chuck and Deb joined me for a second trip. Great weather and great conversation, but unfortunately no fish for our efforts. Hey guys, I wish it were a different outcome, but I look forward to the next time we fish together…
On Wednesday, it was Jerry, Allan, and Steve in the boat. It was a quiet morning on the river, but that all changed after we took a lunch break at the cabins.
On the second troll of the afternoon, Jerry caught this beautiful 42” king salmon. We tried to get better photos, but the salmon was restless and swam out of Jerry’s hand before we could take more.
I ended the week fishing with Jack and Steve. After twelve hours of fishing over two days, we ended up with moose photos, but no fish photos.
I guess it just wasn’t in the cards. We saw several fish caught around us, which was encouraging, but the salmon proved to be too elusive.
This was a first trip to Alaska for Jack. Steve last visited Alaska twenty five years ago. I’ve got a hunch they will both be back soon.
Thought I’d share this last photo with guests that are coming this summer. Vehicle rentals have been difficult (and expensive). For many, a UHaul moving truck is the only option. If you haven’t firmed up a rental vehicle, you should do so immediately.
For The Week Ahead
The lower peninsula streams and near coastal waters were recently closed to king salmon fishing. That is often a precursor to what will happen on the Kenai River. We will need to average 200 fish crossing the sonar counter each day for the next week, or restrictions will occur. On an up note, red salmon are starting to show in the lower Kenai River, the Kasilof River, and Resurrection Bay. It won’t be long before the famed Russian River will start to see a surge of red salmon as well. Hey, if we can’t fish king salmon, red salmon are a heck of a plan B.
Tight lines until next week.
Fishing Report Week Ending 5/30/21