Kenai Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout fishing on the Kenai River is among the finest in the world.  Since the majority of the anglers that visit the Kenai are pursuing salmon, trout fishing is often overlooked.  We recommend at least one day of trout fishing.  Kenai rainbows are extremely plentiful. They are indeed the most wild and beautiful fish you will ever see.  Since the rainbow trout is one the the river's year-round inhabitants, and not a harvest species, we return them all to the river after photos.  Check our rainbow trout gallery for pictures.  A catch and release trout fishing trip is an excellent way to teach children respect for our natural resources and  still have fun!  Click here for a short MPG video.

Season: June 14 - October 31. 
Fishing Methods: Drift/Fly Fishing with egg imitations.

Streams which support major rainbow trout fisheries are the Kenai River, Russian River, and the streams and lakes of the Swanson River and Moose River drainages among others. To provide additional fishing opportunity, landlocked lakes are also stocked with this species.

• Kenai River Rainbow Trout
• Alaska DFG Fish Species Notebook

• The majority of these fish are between two and five pounds. 
• Kenai rainbows can can exceed 20lbs!
• 42 lbs., 3 oz., 1970, Bell Island.

• Catch-and-release strongly encouraged if not mandated by regulation.

• Kenai River Professional Guide Association
• Kenai River Sportfishing Association
• Trout Unlimited
• Kenai Watershed Forum
• Cook Inlet Keeper

This site developed
by Philip R. Gantt