Kenai Drift Anglers

June Alaska Salmon Fishing – Kenai & Kasilof Rivers

Scott Daletas — Sun, 11 May 2025 19:18:04 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

June Alaska Salmon Fishing Guide: Top Kenai & Kasilof River Trips with Kenai Drift Anglers

Why June Is the Ultimate Month to Fish Alaska with Kenai Drift Anglers

Every angler dreams of pristine rivers, fresh salmon runs, and wide‑open water. In Alaska, July and August are great fishing months; however, it does bring some crowds, but savvy fishers know June is when the real magic happens. At Kenai Drift Anglers, we specialize in boutique, tailor‑made adventures. Here’s why you should look into booking your Alaska fishing trip in June.

Light Crowds, Big Water, Great Fishing

When guests do their research, they usually land on July and August as the peak time, as the fishing is great in those months. If you ask your guide, they would choose June. That means fewer boats on the river and more water all to yourself. No fighting for prime holes at the launch ramp or jostling for position mid‑drift—just you, your guide, and fewer tourists. Fewer crowds also translate to an unhurried, personalized experience: more time casting, fewer distractions, and the undivided attention your guide deserves to give. It’s simple math:

From the ADF&G Kasilof River sonar counts for 2024, using the daily escapement inferred from the cumulative totals (ADFG cite Alaska Department of Fish and Game):

June 15–30, 2024 (16 days)
Total inferred sockeye = 180,438 (Jun 30 cum) − 0 (assumed Jun 14 start) = 180,438
Average per day ≈ 11,277 fish
July 1–15, 2024 (15 days)
Total sockeye = 457,900 (Jul 15 cum) − 180,438 (Jun 30 cum) = 277,462
Average per day ≈ 18,497 fish

Summary:

June 15–30 average: ~11,300 sockeye/day
July 1–15 average: ~18,500 sockeye/day

Lower Crowds = More Fish Per Angler
By early July, angler pressure on the Kenai and Kasilof rivers spikes, often three to four times higher than in June. That heavier traffic means more fish are harvested downstream before you even get on the water, so your catch opportunities at times can be less. In June, with a quarter of the boat traffic, you’ve got less competition for every fish on the drift, which makes June an ideal time to lock in your limit—and keep more of those fresh reds for the dinner table.

Early Sockeye Action

Russian River Reds in Early June
Before the main sockeye surge, fresh fish start their journey downstream in the waters of the Kenai River in Soldotna. We know the hot spots in Soldotna—just above tidewater—where reds pause before their epic upstream journey to Cooper Landing. These early sockeyes are shockingly vibrant, and hooking into one is a rush few anglers ever feel.
Kasilof River Secret Mid June
Come mid-June, the Kasilof River lights up. This under‑the‑radar run remains one of Alaska’s best-kept secrets. Our custom Willie boats drift nine scenic miles—from Tustumena Lake through the river’s headwaters to the Kasilof Bridge—revealing gravel bars teeming with sockeye. We float, wade, and teach you to fly fish these reds for an authentic, hands‑on experience.

King Salmon “Chess Match”

King salmon are Alaska’s grand prize—tough, cunning, and ever‑changing. In early June, the Kasilof king run still holds strong, and our guides are experts at finding that one elusive bite. In fact, on May 19, 2024, Kenai Drift Anglers landed the first Kasilof king of the season—a testament to our local knowledge. When those kings taper off around mid‑June, we seamlessly pivot to sockeye on both rivers, keeping your trip full of wild excitement.

Premium Gear & Custom Boats

At Kenai Drift Anglers, we never cut corners. Our custom Willie drift boats are the best in the state, outfitted with top‑tier rods, reels, and fish‑finding electronics. Whether you prefer the finesse of fly fishing or classic trolling, we have the gear and the expertise to land fish. You’ll feel the difference the moment you step into one of our boats.

True Boutique Flexibility

We don’t run cookie‑cutter charters. Instead, your guide monitors river conditions daily and picks the best launch point just before your trip. Want a longer drift? More time on the Kasilof flats? A mix of techniques? We craft your day around your goals, not a preset agenda. That adaptability—being at the right water at the right time—is how we stay above the rest.

Book Your June Adventure Today

Skip the summer crowds and maximize your chances at fresh salmon, stunning scenery, and personalized service. June with Kenai Drift Anglers means early runs, light traffic, and boutique‑level attention on a river that’s all yours for your Alaska fishing trip!

Ready to experience June fishing in Alaska? Head over to www.kenairiverguideservice.com or give us a call. Tight lines—Alaska awaits!

The post June Alaska Salmon Fishing – Kenai & Kasilof Rivers appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Best Alaska Fishing Charters for Salmon on the Kenai 2025

Scott Daletas — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 20:42:31 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

Salmon Fishing in Alaska

Planning your best Alaska fishing trip for 2025 can seem like a daunting task. At Kenai Drift Anglers, we aim to simplify the process for you. As a local fishing charter operation on the Kenai Peninsula, based in Soldotna, Alaska, we fish both the Kenai River and the Kasilof River. We also offer Halibut charters near Homer, Alaska, as well as Alaska fly-out fishing trips across Cook Inlet to remote lakes and rivers for salmon fishing and bear viewing. We like to think of ourselves as a one-stop shop for your Alaska fishing adventure.

What sets us apart? First, we focus on you. We pride ourselves on being local fishing guides. Unlike some operations that only stick around for the summer season and leave when the salmon runs end, we contribute to the local economy and bring valuable Alaska knowledge to every aspect of your trip. Second, we invest in our gear. Hands down, we have the most comfortable and high-quality river boats on the Kenai Peninsula.

From our boats to our fishing equipment, including top-notch Willie Boats and Lamiglas and G. Loomis rods, we prioritize quality. Lastly, we remain exclusive. By offering just two drift boat trips on the Kasilof and two powerboat trips on the Kenai each day, we maintain a small-scale operation that focuses on providing the best possible experience for our clients.

Why Choose Kenai Drift Anglers?

We don’t run lodging ourselves but partner with local cabin rentals that focus on your stay while we focus on your fishing. This approach allows us to specialize in guided fishing trips, ensuring your time on the water is unforgettable. Many fishing lodges operate on rigid schedules, offering just one trip type per month. We’re different. Flexibility is key to creating incredible Alaska fishing trips. Whether it’s changing from a King Salmon trip to a Sockeye trip based on real-time conditions or exploring multiple fishing opportunities, we tailor each trip to your goals.

Best Alaska fishing Run Timing for 2025

Timing is everything when it comes to the best alaska salmon fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. Here’s a breakdown of the key salmon runs:

May 16th: The Kasilof King Salmon opener kicks off the season. This peaceful, non-motorized drift boat experience is as authentic as it gets and peaks in late May and early June.
June: Early Sockeye runs begin. The Russian River Sockeye run offers a short window of great fishing, while the Kasilof Sockeye run starts to pick up by mid-June. Our guides will recommend the best opportunities based on the day’s conditions. This time of year can really offer some unique Salmon trips and fewer people on the River!
July 10th – August 15th: The Kenai River’s Late Run Sockeye Salmon provides some of the most exciting fishing of the season, often lasting well into August. In the peak of the season does bring more people, but we have ways to escape from crowds.
August – September: Silver Salmon (Coho) fishing takes center stage on both rivers. September trips offer incredible opportunities as the salmon runs continue strong into the fall.
Fly-Out Fishing: From June through September, we offer fly-out fishing trips to remote, road-inaccessible areas for unmatched salmon fishing and bear viewing experiences.
Halibut Trips: Available from May through September, these trips are perfect for anglers looking to expand their adventure and take home a lot of meat!

Plan Your Full Kenai Peninsula Adventure

The Kenai Peninsula is not just about fishing; it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. In between fishing trips, you can explore scenic hiking trails, kayak along pristine coastlines, or take a wildlife cruise in Seward to see whales, puffins, and glaciers. For those interested in cultural experiences, Soldotna and Homer offer charming local art galleries, delicious seafood restaurants, and unique shops featuring Alaskan crafts.

Looking for a family-friendly activity? Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward or take a short drive to Cooper Landing for rafting adventures. Add a Kenai Fjords tour to your itinerary and explore the stunning glaciers and abundant marine wildlife within Kenai Fjords National Park. This breathtaking national park offers unforgettable opportunities to see tidewater glaciers, sea lions, and even humpback whales up close.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Kenai Peninsula offers something for everyone, making it the ideal base for your Alaska vacation. Combine your fishing experience with incredible sightseeing and outdoor activities for a truly unforgettable trip.

Ready to make memories that will last a lifetime? Let Kenai Drift Anglers guide you to the best fishing and help you experience all that the Kenai Peninsula has to offer.

Local Expertise and Accessibility

Kenai Drift Anglers is located just 2.5 hours from Anchorage. Many major airlines, including Delta, Alaska, United, and Southwest, offer direct flights. From Anchorage, the scenic Seward Highway drive takes you through charming towns like Girdwood and Cooper Landing before arriving in Soldotna, the heart of the Kenai River. This central location is ideal for accessing the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers, as well as Halibut trips in Homer and Seward.

We’ve traveled all over Alaska and firmly believe the Kenai Peninsula is the state’s playground, which is why we call it home. Whether you’re targeting salmon, halibut, or trout, our flexible approach and local expertise ensure you’ll experience the best alaska fishing Alaska has to offer. Book with Kenai Drift Anglers, and let’s create your perfect Alaska fishing adventure for 2025!

The post Best Alaska Fishing Charters for Salmon on the Kenai 2025 appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Kenai River Power Boats and Kasilof River Alaska Fishing Drift Boats

Scott Daletas — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 23:50:19 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

Experience the Ultimate Alaska Salmon Fishing Adventure in 2025

At Kenai Drift Anglers, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional Alaska fishing experience on the iconic Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. Based in Soldotna, the heart of these world-famous fisheries, we’re excited to announce the latest addition to our fleet—a brand-new, custom-built 2025 Willie Classic Power Boat. Designed with both performance and comfort in mind, this boat is tailor-made for fishing the Kenai River’s 50hp-restricted waters. From bow to stern, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure your Alaska fishing trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Like our trusted 2019 Willie Power Boat, the 2025 model accommodates up to five clients comfortably, adhering to Alaska Fish and Game regulations. Both boats feature premium heated seats, large storage boxes to keep your gear dry, and Willie Deluxe armrest seating for maximum comfort. Powered by Yamaha 50hp outboard motors, these boats are lightweight yet powerful, ensuring efficiency even when fully loaded with clients, gear, and—hopefully—a fish box full of salmon! Willie Boats’ Classic model, originally designed for the Kenai River, provides unparalleled maneuverability, shallow water handling, and a silky-smooth ride that sets it apart from the rest.

“Fishing success starts with preparation, and that includes starting your day in a boat designed for performance, comfort, and the perfect Alaskan fishing experience.”

Experience the Kasilof River in Style with Custom Willie Drift Boats

While power boats are essential for the Kenai River, drift boats reign supreme on the Kasilof River, where motorized boats are not allowed. Our Willie Drift Boats are equally custom-built to prioritize comfort and functionality. At 19 feet long, they comfortably accommodate four passengers, with an option for a fifth seat. Drift boats allow for a peaceful and immersive fishing experience as you float through the serene, undeveloped beauty of the Kasilof River, surrounded by stunning Alaskan wilderness.

The Kasilof River, often referred to as the Kenai’s little brother, offers earlier salmon runs than the Kenai, making it an excellent option for anglers. From mid-May to the end of July, the Kasilof Sockeye Salmon Run provides an unforgettable adventure, especially on the tranquil, motor-free waters between Tustumena Lake and the Sterling Highway Bridge. This quieter, more intimate setting is perfect for anglers looking to experience Alaska’s pristine fishing environment. The Kasilof River also offers exceptional Silver Salmon fishing in the middle of August and can extend to the end of September.

“We believe every great fishing trip starts with the best gear and the highest quality boats, setting the stage for the most successful day on the water.”

Why Choose Kenai Drift Anglers for Your Alaska Fishing Charter

Whether you choose the Kenai River Power Boat or the Kasilof River Drift Boat, which usually comes down to the dates you have available for your Alaska Fishing trip, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality gear, boats, and experience. Our Alaska fishing boats are specifically designed to handle the demands of each river, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency as you fish for Salmon. At Kenai Drift Anglers, we understand that while you can’t always make the fish bite, we can certainly control your comfort and the quality of your fishing equipment. From the moment your trip begins, we take great care to ensure you have everything you need for the most successful Alaska fishing trip!

The post Kenai River Power Boats and Kasilof River Alaska Fishing Drift Boats appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Unveiling the Ultimate Drift Fishing Experience for Salmon on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers

Scott Daletas — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 23:39:39 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

Drift Fishing Uncovered: Salmon Adventures on the Kenai

Are you ready for an exhilarating adventure in the heart of Alaska’s salmon paradise? Look no further than our renowned guide service, Kenai Drift Anglers! Nestled along the banks of the legendary Kenai River and the picturesque Kasilof River, our team of expert fishing guides is dedicated to providing an unforgettable drift fishing experience for avid anglers seeking the thrill of reeling in those precious salmon.

The Thrill of Drift Fishing for Salmon

Drift fishing for salmon is an art and a passion that we’ve mastered here at Kenai Drift. Picture yourself gliding down the pristine waters, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, as you cast your line into the crystal-clear depths, waiting for that electrifying moment when a mighty salmon takes the bait. Our skilled guides possess an intimate knowledge of these rivers, ensuring you’re in the best spots for a successful and thrilling fishing excursion.

Kenai Drift Anglers: Crafting the Art of Drift Fishing for Salmon Success

Delve into the rich tradition of drift fishing tailored specifically for the Kenai River, a renowned haven for salmon fishing enthusiasts. Originating from humble beginnings as ‘boon doggin’ or ‘boom dogging’ along the Skagit River, this technique has evolved into an art form when exploring the majestic Kenai waters.

Our guided trips with Kenai Drift Anglers encapsulate the evolution of drift fishing. Decades ago, loggers trailed lines behind booms in hopes of a prized catch, leading to the birth of this method. Today, guided by technology and expertise, we utilize sensitive graphite rods and innovative tackle suited for the Kenai’s currents. Our experienced guides, some hailing from the finest fishing regions, have transformed drift fishing into a skillful craft adaptable to these Alaskan waters.

Drift fishing on the Kenai River demands precision and finesse. Light spinning rods equipped with 10 to 15-pound mainlines, alongside smaller lead increments, allow for delicate bait presentations crucial for enticing salmon. Our recommended equipment, from top-tier reels to high-visibility monofilament backing, has been meticulously chosen to suit the river’s varying conditions. Our drift fishing technique is optimized for the Kenai’s abundant salmon species, offering an exhilarating adventure and promising a chance to reel in those prized Salmon and trout.”

Sockeye Salmon Fishing: Kasilof River’s Gravel Bars

On the Kasilof River, our journey often involves floating downstream to reach gravel bars where the Sockeye Salmon thrive. These remote shore-based gravel bars are accessible only via drift boats. This exclusive access ensures an intimate and fruitful fishing experience, surrounded by the untouched beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.

Kenai River’s Unique Opportunities

Contrasting the Kasilof, the Kenai River presents distinctive possibilities. With the use of power boats, we navigate up and down the river, seeking out the most promising gravel bars for Sockeye Salmon. This flexibility allows us to access prime locations efficiently, maximizing the chances of landing that coveted Sockeye Salmon.

Silver Salmon Fishing: Versatile Techniques

Transitioning to our Silver Salmon fishery, we embrace a variety of techniques tailored for an unforgettable experience. Drift fishing for Coho Salmon stands out among the methods employed. When bait is permitted, our arsenal includes Quickfish Luhrs, cast or back-trolled, while bobber and eggs become the preferred choice for drift fishing. In areas with bait closures, we turn to spinners, expertly cast using spin rods.

Experience the Thrill, Regardless of Technique

No matter the method employed, the thrill of Salmon fishing on these Alaskan rivers remains constant. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush from casting Quickfish Luhrs, the precision of drift fishing with bobber and eggs, or the finesse required for spinners, each technique promises an exhilarating adventure.

At Kenai Drift Anglers, we invite you to explore these varied fishing methods under the guidance of our experienced team. Join us for an immersive fishing escapade that celebrates the diverse approaches to Salmon fishing, promising excitement and lasting memories amidst Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes.

Ready to embark on your Salmon fishing adventure? Contact us today and let’s make your Alaskan fishing dreams a reality!

The post Unveiling the Ultimate Drift Fishing Experience for Salmon on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

The Ultimate Guide to Silver Fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers

Scott Daletas — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 23:49:03 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

Kenai Guide to Silver Fishing

Overview of Silver Salmon

Silver salmon, also known as Coho salmon, are a popular species for sport fishing in Alaska. They are prized for their acrobatics and powerful runs, making them a challenging and exciting catch for anglers. Silver Salmon are found throughout the North Pacific Ocean and along coastal streams and rivers from Alaska to central California, where they are most abundant.

Appearance-wise, silver salmon have dark metallic blue or greenish backs with silver sides and a light belly, with small black spots on their back and upper lobe of the tail while in the ocean. As anadromous fish, coho salmon hatch in freshwater streams and spend a year in the river before migrating to the ocean to feed and grow for 1-1.5 years. After that, they return to their natal streams to spawn, usually in fall or early winter. Coho salmon usually weigh 8-12 pounds and are 24-30 inches long, with a diet consisting of plankton, insects, and small fishes such as herring, sandlance, anchovies, and sardines.

Silver Fishing on the Kenai River and Kasilof River

The Kenai River and Kasilof River in Alaska are two of the best places to fish for silver salmon in Alaska. These rivers are known for their abundance of fish and the excellent fishing opportunities they offer. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, fishing for silver salmon on the Kenai and Kasilof rivers is an unforgettable experience.

Silver fishing on the Kenai River

Silver fishing on the Kenai River is world-famous for many reasons. The Kenai river is renowned for its abundant populations of silver salmon, which return each year to spawn. Silver fishing on the Kenai River is an exciting experience and offers anglers the opportunity to catch a great number of these prized fish.

The Kenai River is a large and meandering waterway that flows from its headwaters in the Chugach Mountains to the Cook Inlet. It is a vital habitat for numerous species of fish, including the silver salmon. Silver salmon typically enter the river in late July and continue to run through September and even into October, making this the prime time for silver fishing on the Kenai River.

Silver fishing on the Kenai River is typically done by drift fishing, where anglers drift down the river in a boat while casting their lines. This allows anglers to cover a large area of the river and increase their chances of hooking a silver salmon. The most popular techniques for silver fishing on the Kenai River include trolling, casting spinners and jigs, and fly fishing for silver salmon in the fall on the Kenai River.

Anglers looking to try their hand at silver fishing on the Kenai River should be prepared with the proper equipment and fishing gear, including a good quality rod and reel, a variety of lures and baits, and a drift fishing setup. It is also important to obtain the necessary fishing license and follow all fishing regulations to ensure a safe and sustainable fishery on the Kenai River.

Silver fishing on the Kasilof River

The Kasilof River is another popular destination for silver fishing on the Kenai Peninsula. The Kasilof River is known as the smaller brother of the Kenai River and is known for its clear and pristine water, making it an excellent destination for fishing. The Kasilof River is home to a large population of silver salmon, which enter the river each year to spawn.

Silver fishing on the Kasilof River is similar to silver fishing on the Kenai River, with drift fishing being the most popular method. Anglers will drift down the river in a boat while casting their lines, using a variety of techniques to try and hook a silver salmon. The most common technique used on the Kasilof River is bottom-bouncing salmon eggs on the river’s floor.

Anglers who are new to silver fishing on the Kasilof River should be prepared with the proper equipment and fishing gear. This includes a good quality rod and reel, a variety of lures and baits, and a drift fishing setup. It is also important to obtain the necessary fishing license and follow all fishing regulations to ensure a safe and sustainable fishery on the Kasilof River.

How to fish for Silver Salmon

How we Fish for Silver Salmon on the Kenai River

The Kenai River in Alaska is the destination for silver salmon fishing, and the best approach depends on the timing of the run and the current river conditions. The silver salmon season begins in mid-August and initially, the best fishing is in the tidewater near Kenai and Soldotna where the salmon are entering the river. During this early season, effective techniques include trolling with Luhrs, spin-n-glows with salmon eggs, and bottom bouncing. As the number of salmon increases in the river, anglers typically move upstream to target staging fish using Luhrs and Vibrax spinners. This typically occurs in the last two weeks of August.

As the Silver Salmon season progresses from August to September and into October, our fishing techniques transition from targeting Silver Salmon in the middle Kenai, near Sterling, Alaska to focusing on the mouth of the Kenai River near Kenai and Soldotna, Alaska. The second run of Silver Salmon usually starts to arrive by late August or early September and can continue until October. During this time, regulations for Silver Salmon allow for a higher catch limit, increasing from two Silvers per person in August to three per person in September and October.

How we fish for Silver Salmon on the Kasilof River

Get ready for a wild and thrilling fishing experience on the Kasilof River! Instead of power boats, we take to the water in Drift Boats for an unforgettable journey. As we float down the river, we target the feisty Silver Salmon with bottom-bouncing cured salmon eggs. It’s a rush to feel the tug on the line and see the flash of silver as these magnificent creatures take the bait just a few feet beneath the boat. Not only will you catch the catch of a lifetime, but the drift boat experience on the Kasilof River is a must-do for any Alaskan adventure. We highly recommend Silver fishing on the Kasilof river as it’s a fishing trip that always is one to remember, no matter how the fishing is.

Fly fishing for Silver Salmon on the Kenai River

Kenai River Fly fishing for Coho Salmon

Fly fishing for Silver Salmon on the Kenai River is an experience like no other. These mighty fish are a challenge to catch but once you have one on your line, you’ll understand why it’s worth it. With the right setup, fly fishing can be the most exhilarating way to catch Silver Salmon on the Kenai. Here’s a quick guide on why you should try fly fishing for Silver Salmon and how to do it:

Why Fly Fishing for Silver Salmon?

The thrill of catching a Silver Salmon with just a rod and line is an adrenaline rush like no other.
Fly fishing allows for a more subtle approach to catching these fish, making it a stealthier way to target them.
The beauty of the Kenai River and the excitement of fly fishing is a combination that will make for an unforgettable experience.

How to Fly Fish for Silver Salmon:

Get the right gear – You’ll need a 9-weight fly rod, a saltwater reel, and a sinking line.
Choose the right fly – Silver Salmon respond well to egg patterns, intruder flies, tube flies, and streamers.
Cast and retrieve – Cast upstream and retrieve the fly in a swinging motion. Make sure to keep the line tight to detect bites.
Reel them in – When a Silver Salmon takes the fly, reel it in slowly and steadily, using the rod to tire the fish out.

Fly fishing for Silver Salmon on the Kenai River is a must-try for any angler. The excitement of catching a Silver Salmon on the fly is unmatched and the beautiful scenery of the Kenai River only adds to the experience. So grab your gear, tie on a fly, and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!

Guided Silver Fishing Trip

Why Booking a Fishing Guide on the Kenai River is the Best Way to Catch Silver Salmon

If you’re planning an Alaska fishing trip to the Kenai River or the Kasilof River between August and October, you’ll want to make the most of your time and money. After all, fishing in Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many anglers, and you’ll want to make sure you come home with some great memories and even better fish.

That’s where booking a local Alaskan fishing guide comes in. Local guides like the ones at Kenai Drift Anglers have endless knowledge about silver salmon fishing on the Kenai River, and they fish the river year-round. They know the best spots to fish, the best times to fish, and the best techniques to use. When you spend a bunch of money flying to Alaska, it’s always smart to book a fishing guide.

But local knowledge isn’t the only benefit of booking a fishing guide on the Kenai River. When you fish for silver salmon from a boat, you’re much more effective than fishing from the bank. That’s because you can cover more water and get to the spots that the fish are holding in. A fishing guide will have a boat, all the necessary gear, and the experience to put you in the right spot to catch fish.

Booking a fishing guide is also a great idea if you’re a beginner or a do-it-yourself avid fisherman. A fishing guide can teach you the techniques that work best for silver salmon fishing on the Kenai River, and they can help you fine-tune your skills. They’ll also take care of all the logistics, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost or breaking any fishing regulations.

Finally, when you book a fishing guide on the Kenai River, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that your catch will be properly handled and filleted at the end of the day. A guide like Kenai Drift Anglers knows all the regulations and will make sure that you’re in compliance.

In conclusion, if you want to have the best possible experience fishing for silver salmon on the Kenai River, booking a local Alaskan fishing guide like Kenai Drift Anglers is the way to go. You’ll learn from the experts, have access to the best fishing spots, and have the peace of mind of knowing that your catch will be properly handled. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fish in Alaska – book your Silver fishing guide today!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Silver Fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Alaska Fishing License 2024

Scott Daletas — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 18:13:31 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

For centuries, fishing has been a part of the culture and way of life in Alaska. With the opportunity to get away from it all and visit the remote wilderness, Alaska offers a sense of isolation and solitude that can be hard to find in any other place around the world.

Alaska is home to all five species of Pacific Salmon (chinook, coho, sockeye, chum, and pink Salmon. The most popular fish to target though is Salmon and Halibut. Salmon fishing provides the opportunity to bring plenty of tasty fish home to enjoy for the winter! Halibut is also an extremely popular target for sport fishermen in Alaska; our state is known for having the largest halibut in the World. Lastly, both Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden Trout are popular to target among sport fishing anglers; at times you can catch hundreds of these fun reel-screaming fish!

Luckily for you, no matter what species of Salmon or Trout you’re targeting in Alaska, the Alaska fishing license for 2024 is simple. Unlike other states, you won’t have to purchase a fishing license for many different types of species, locations with endless restrictions. In order to fish in Alaska, there are several types of fishing licenses available, depending on your age, residency status, and the type of fishing you plan to do.

Resident Alaska Fishing License 2024

Alaskan residents need only pay $20.00 to fish the entire state of Alaska. The only add-on to your fishing license would be if you would like to partake in King Salmon fishing. This is called a King Salmon stamp and is an extra $10.00 for the year. While many fishing licenses across the United States are on the rise, Alaska actually decreased its fishing license in 2021! Alaska Department of Fish & Game removed a surcharge that had been in place for 15 years, decreasing a resident annual Alaska fishing license by $9.00.

Nonresident Alaska Fishing License 2024

A one-day, non-resident Alaska fishing license for 2024 is $15.00. This covers all fishing in Alaska for Salmon and Halibut, the only exception is for King Salmon fishing for which you will need to purchase an additional King Stamp for $15.00 per day. The King Stamp is only for King Salmon fishing in Alaska, so if you’re not fishing for King Salmon, you do not need to purchase this. It’s pretty great to go fishing in Alaska as a non-resident for a week, is just $45.00 dollars.

Where do I purchae my Alaska Fishing License?

Here in Alaska, there are many places to purchase your Alaska fishing license for 2024. The most common is to head over to the Alaska Department of Fish and Games website and purchase your Alaska fishing license online. You may also purchase your fishing license at many local Soldotna, Alaska sporting goods stores.

Do I have to print my Alaska Fishing License?

For many years, the Alaska Department of Fish & Game required a physical copy of your Alaska fishing license; however, it is no longer required that you print out your fishing license. Some people prefer to keep a digital copy of their license on their phone or another electronic device, which can be easily accessed and shown to officials as needed.

As always, here at Kenai Drift Anglers, we like to see a physical copy as we’ve lost many phones to the Kenai River and dead batteries from clients taking so many photos! If you choose to have a digital copy, please make sure your device is charged and that you have a backup plan if your device is lost or damaged. Lastly, if you did lose your license, it’s just $5.00 to receive a new copy of your Alaska fishing license.

Do kids fish free in Alaska?

Another great thing about our fishing license program here in Alaska is kids fish free! Residents under 18 years old do not need an Alaska fishing license. Non-resident kids under the age of 16 years old also do not need a fishing license; however, when sport fishing for a species that has an annual limit, both resident and non-resident kids of all ages need a Sport Fishing Harvest Card. Our fishing trips only require a harvest card for kids while fishing for King Salmon. We usually have these cards on board, however, it is always a good idea to print a Sports Fishing Harvest card for the kids.

Remember – if you’re a non-resident, all kids under 16 years of age fish for free in Alaska!

Make your Alaska Fishing Trip Simple

Your Alaska fishing trip has a lot of moving parts and your Alaska fishing license is the first step to getting on the Kenai river here with Kenai Drift Anglers. Fishing regulations do change from time to time so we always recommend you purchase your Alaska fishing license once you have arrived in Alaska. As always, we’re here to help and make your Alaska fishing trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The post Alaska Fishing License 2024 appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Sockeye Salmon Kenai River

Scott Daletas — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 23:45:45 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

It’s officially break-up season on the Kenai Peninsula, it’s that strange time when our snow disappears and leaves us a dusty, muddy, and wet ground. For us Alaskans, this is our last few weeks to enjoy the calmness of Alaska before our 2022 Alaska fishing season gets underway. Here at Kenai Drift Anglers, we’re preparing for another excellent fishing season. We will discuss Sockeye Salmon on the Kenai River, furthermore what to expect from booking a Sockeye Salmon fishing charter with Kenai Drift Anglers.

How should I book my Alaska fishing trip for 2022

As most local fishing guide outfits here in Soldotna, Alaska is sitting on very full calendars by this time of the year, the best bet is to be flexible with your fishing dates. Our repeat guests always book fishing first around December or January and then their other Alaska activities and lodging. Here at Kenai Drift Anglers we still offer limited spots on our most popular Sockeye Salmon fishing charters on the Kenai River.

2022 Kenai River Late-Run Sockeye Salmon run

So what is it with all the hype of a Sockeye Salmon charter with Kenai Drift Anglers? Well, our 2021 Kenai River Late-Run Sockeye nearly hit 2.5 Million Sockeye over just two months. Furthermore, this provided anglers with limited time in the Kenai Peninsula to experience an Alaska fishing trip of a lifetime. For our guest looking to fill the freezers, Sockeye Salmon provides the opportunity to have the best wild Sockeye Salmon at home. Wild Sockeye Salmon prices have skyrocketed with large ranges of prices from $20.00 per lb. to as high as $70.00 per lb. Our guests at Kenai Drift Anglers have seen 35-50 lbs of filleted Sockeye Salmon after one of our charters.

There is also that appreciation of being sustainably caught with a rod & reel vs. commercially caught. Most importantly, knowing you caught these Sockeye Salmon to serve to your guest and family at your own home. We constantly get texts and emails of our guests cooking their very own Sockeye Salmon at home, we love to help with that!

Kenai Drift Anglers

As we remind our guests, Kenai Drift Anglers is an exclusive small fishing guide outfit that specializes in the fishing aspect of your Alaska fishing trip. We don’t outsource our guests and try to book you with other outfits. You fish with me, Scotty Daletas. Many outfits here run themselves wild dealing with lodging while also being a fishing guide, constantly outsourcing guests to other fishing companies. Here at Kenai Drift Anglers, all we’re focused on doing is spending the evenings preparing for your charter.

We believe 90% of the fish are caught the night before.

Book a Sockeye Salmon Charter with Kenai Drift Anglers

Sincerely

Scotty Daletas
Owner & Guide
Kenai Drift Anglers

The post Sockeye Salmon Kenai River appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Traveling to Alaska Covid Restrictions 2021

Scott Daletas — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 20:31:50 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

It’s been a long winter to say the least. However, most upcoming Alaska travelers reading this endured a much harsher winter and I’m not talking about the weather. Alaska in the winter is quiet, cold and dark. After a long summer season of fishing, we enjoy this once hectic place, becoming peaceful again. So long story short, I couldn’t imagine what you folks down there in America, especially in larger cities had to deal with. Even before Covid-19, the winters in Alaska seem to already adapt to these Covid precautions. Most Alaskans prefer hibernation over a bunch of humans. The freezer is full, the mountains are calling and spending time with family is our Alaskan winter.

Working in Haines, Alaska with Alaska Heliskiing kept us busy this winter.

Catch Salmon not Covid

I remember sitting here last year, wondering if we we’re having a season at all? Many Covid-19 regulations coming in, we didn’t know what to make sense of it all. Now, flash forward to the 2021 Alaska Fishing Season, the State of Alaska is now open for travel. As it can still be confusing for travelers, we wanted to make a simple but detailed post of what to expect traveling to Alaska this summer. Welcome to your traveling to Alaska Covid-19 Restrictions 2021 Guide.

COVID-19 Health Advisory No. 2

The State of Alaska Covid Travel Restrictions freshly released February 14th, 2021 is now “recommending” travelers coming from outside the state to:

Complete a Travel Declaration Form and a Self-Isolation Plan in the Alaska Travel Portal at www.alaska.covidsecureapp.com.
Any person currently positive with COVID-19 cannot travel to Alaska until they have been released from isolation, or cleared for travel, by a medical provider or public health agency
Pre-travel molecular-based test for SARS-CoV2 with negative results: The traveler should submit negative test results from a test taken within 72 hours of departure into the Alaska Travel Portal or have proof of a negative test available to show screeners at the airport upon arrival.
Pre-travel molecular-based test for SARS-CoV2 without results: The traveler should submit proof of a test taken within 72 hours of departure into the Alaska Travel Portal or have proof available of having taken a test to show screeners at the airport.
No pre-travel molecular-based test for SARS-CoV2: If a non-resident traveler (aged 11 years or older) arrives in Alaska without proof of a negative test result or proof of a test taken within 72 hours of departure, they should test at the airport. i. The traveler should follow strict social distancing until test results are available. ii. The traveler should obtain a second test 5–14 days after arrival.
Fully-vaccinated travelers should follow pre-travel testing protocols, but do not need to follow strict social distancing while they are awaiting test results
Fully-vaccinated is defined as more than two weeks following receipt of the second dose in a two-dose series, or more than two weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine.

The full Alaska Covid-19 Travel Recommendations can be read here.

Alaska Airlines Covid-19 Travel Restrictions for Alaska read here.

Updated FAQ from the State of Alaska 3/23/21

Alaska Travel Covid Recommendations

With the Alaska Covid-19 Mandate being lifted as of February 14th 2021, you’re no longer required to receive or Provide Proof of a Negative Covid-19 Test to fly into Anchorage International Airport. However, at Kenai Drift Anglers we still recommend taking precautions before you travel to Alaska.

Get tested in your home State Three days before travel and receive results before arriving into Anchorage.
Mask are required on Airlines and also in Anchorage. Soldotna does not require mask.
Wash your hands and bring your travel hand sanitizer with you, with an extra mask.

Local Alaska Covid Travel Tips

First, leave politics aside and lets go fishing! You can call the last 14 months whatever you want, but we’re just excited you’re allowed to travel to Alaska with less restrictions. Let’s keep it this way!

Here in Alaska, if you ask ten people you’ll get ten different answers on how we should manage traveling this summer. Our Recommendation, be patient. Especially flying this summer, we understand people have different beliefs on mask, but however long your flight is, we can guarantee it will be worth it once you’re fishing the Kenai River!

2021 Alaska Fishing Season

Just a little over a month here until we kick off our Alaska Fishing season. We couldn’t be more excited. It’s true, this will be an extremely busy season here at Kenai Drift Anglers and we are excited to see you all. We hope your travels to Alaska this fishing season are smooth. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about traveling to Alaska this year!

For any Booking inquires, please visit our 2021 Alaska Fishing page.

Also visit our Kenai Drift Anglers Reservations Page

Kenai Drift Anglers is excited to kick off the 2021 Alaska Fishing Season and fishing with you all, very soon!

Scotty
Owner & Guide
Kenai Drift Anglers

The post Traveling to Alaska Covid Restrictions 2021 appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Alaska Fishing Season Report 2020

Scott Daletas — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

I would like to start our Alaska fishing season report 2020 at the end of the 2019, if only we had any idea of the incoming train we were about to be, head-on with. My Covid-19 inauguration started in January; in Hakuba, Japan. Where I spent my second season as a ski guide for Evergreen Outdoors.

Furthermore, our operation suddenly came to a quick halt in February due to Covid-19 with many clients from China and travel restrictions put in place by many other countries, around Japan. Was I thinking this may effect our 2020 Alaska fishing season at all? “Not one bit.” I would of replied. Oh, was I in-store for a rude awakening.

Alaska Fishing Season off to a unique start

As February became March, I quickly retuned back home to Soldotna, Alaska. Luckily, I made it just ten days before they shut down the boarders and created much stricter travel restrictions.

In fact, my vocabulary quickly increased with words like, social distancing, shelter-in-place, PPE, novel coronavirus, flattening the curve, essential business, contact tracing, WHO, hydroxychloroquine and last but not least covidiot. From my new vocabulary to everyone you talk to being “Covid-19 experts” it was a strange new reality for us Alaska fishing guides.

Our season really started just like this Alaska fishing season report 2020 blog post, an entire two paragraphs of our Alaska fishing season report where we haven’t even talked about “fishing.” Many eager fishing clients wanted to travel to the 49th state, but unsure if restrictions would get in the way of their Alaska fishing dream trip.

As we start every year for King Salmon on the Kasilof River on May 16th, Kenai Drift Anglers was optimistic of how the season would begin. From late March to June 5th, the State of Alaska required a 14-day quarantine for all travelers entering Alaska. To illustrate this obviously cancelled pretty much all tourism to the State, as truly most fishing clients can’t afford to post up in an Alaska cabin for 14 days until they can fish with us.

Local Alaskan Guided Fishing Trips

Luckily, local Alaskans really endorsed local Alaska fishing guides. Usually, locals book late and rarely get prime Kasilof river King Salmon fishing dates. With the help of local Alaskans and other Alaska fishing lodges like, Alaska Fishing with Mark Glassmaker we stayed busy and offered some incredible Kasilof River King Salmon Charters. The Kasilof Early King Salmon Run really started to pump fish into the system by the end of May, early June.

However, ADFG released an emergency order for June 11th to eliminate bait fishing on the Kasilof River which impacted our catch per charter. Fortunately, by this time Sockeye Salmon started to flood the Kasilof river in decent numbers on the tides, we were able to provide our guest with extremely great guided trips and some of the best salmon for their freezers to bring home.

A new Addition to the Kenai Drift Anglers Fleet

Another Exciting addition was our new Willies drift boat for the 2020 Alaska Fishing season. Fully-customized 19-foot drift boat for our Kasilof river Salmon charters. We started designing this boat in November of 2019 and arrived in Alaska by April of 2020. As we were not expecting back in November, what we would be up against in 2020 we couldn’t be more excited to offer this type of drift boat for our guest.

Simply The Best

The most decked out Alaska fishing drift boat to hit the Alaskan waters. In fact, we have an internal bow heater for those cold early morning Kasilof River starts and custom leather tempress seats. Furthermore, our Willie drift boat comes decked out with Scotty Rod holders for easy hook ups and even a bow Pizza oven to warm up those breakfast sandwiches or whatever you desire between navigating fishing holes

Our New Drift Boat Brought Great Fishing

As the Alaska fishing season continued into June, it brought a plentiful amount of Sockeye Salmon to the Kasilof River. The beginning of the run was crucial to know the timing of the push of Salmon, usually making the push into the river on the High-tide. As the days progressed, so did the amount of our Sockeye catches. Eventually, the Kasilof filled with Salmon, we were able to offer Upper Kasilof river Salmon trips as well, with the exceptional scenery, turquoise water and wildlife plus whitewater, Class II rapids, the upper Kasilof is World-class fishing.

What about the Kenai? Well, on June 6th 2020 the Kenai river Early-King Salmon run went from Catch & Release to CLOSED. Every trip and every guest we always weigh our options, however it’s extremely difficult to predict especially when many people book in January, February, March. That’s why we’ve positioned Kenai Drift Anglers to be able to fish the Kasilof River at this time, it’s takes a completely different boat (drift boat) knowledge and strength (rowing), but provides our guest with better options.

Not every outfit is setup for both rivers, just like this year it provided the best fishing in the entire state for early King Salmon and Sockeye Salmon on the Kasilof River. While May and June also provided less crowds and more of an Alaskan experience for Alaska travelers. The Kasilof river guided fishing trips offers a completely unique experience over the Kenai river in May & June.

The return to the Kenai River

We moved back to the Kenai River on July 10th where we saw limit Sockeye Salmon fishing with nice large bucks (male) in the early part of the run. The Kenai is special, every salmon is just flat out larger than most any other river system in the state. The return to Kenai also means it’s time to bring out our Willie Boat 21 foot Classic designed in 2019.

Kenai River July

The Kenai River Late-run Sockeye Salmon continued to outperform, reaching over one million Sockeye Salmon in August. In the middle of a good Sockeye Salmon return on the Kenai River and Kasilof River, the return of the Pink Salmon was among us. Pink Salmon on both the Kenai River and Kasilof River only come every even year. 2020 was their year. Pink Salmon is by far the most plentiful easy-to-catch for our Alaska travelers.

Catch-and-release Pink Salmon is a blast for groups just wanting to catch until their arms are sore. The quality of the Pink Salmon fillets has a small window of being good for eating. Usually, the last week of July into the first week of August gives quality meat fillets. However, much after that window we perform catch and release trips which are exciting for the entire family.

Kenai River Silver Salmon

Kenai Drift Anglers loves targeting Kenai River Silver Salmon (Coho) in the second week of August all the way through September. With an array of fishing techniques, Silver Salmon guided charters are some of out most exhilarating trips we offer.

A Kenai river guides favorite, August is a time us fishing guides really look forward to. The first run of Kenai river Silver Salmon usually starts after the first week of August. The 2020 Silver Salmon season on the Kenai river was restricted to no bait until August 16th, this made catching more challenging however lead to awesome spinner fishing days on the lower Kenai. As every even year brings Pink Salmon to the Kenai Peninsula, 2020 was a record breaking Pink Salmon year.

It brought challenges when targeting Silver salmon (Coho) with the enormous amounts of Pink Salmon. However, this made catch numbers into the hundreds of Salmon per day. We had to focus on areas where the Pink salmon weren’t flooding the Kenai River. We moved our operation from the Lower Kenai to the Middle Kenai River in August. This is where we spent the rest of the year, launching at Bings Landing Boat Launch.

Kenai River Silver Salmon

Kenai River Trout Fishing

When there are even years on the Kenai River which brings copious amounts of Pink Salmon, it means the Kenai River Rainbow Trout will be feeding. Even years on average bring upward of 2 to 4 million Pink Salmon in addition to the Sockeye Salmon and Silver Salmon (Coho). These Rainbow Trout that are residents of the Kenai River know this is prime-time feasting for the upcoming harsh winter.

From August until it’s too cold or too low to run the power boat, means World-Class Kenai River trout fishing. An addition to the fall colors, it brings the beauty with less people on the water and a chance to find some of the largest rainbow trout in the world. We had a great Alaska fishing season, offering fly fishing and conventional gear for our Kenai River Rainbow Trout and Dollies.

Rainbow Trout Fishing Kenai River

Kenai River World-Class Trout Fishing

These Giant Rainbow Trout are magnificent fighters on the Kenai river. We finished up the 2020 Alaska Fishing season with some exciting Trout fishing. We are lucky enough to share our passion with others from all-around the world. We continue to work hard and do our best by providing the best Alaska Fishing trip on the Kenai Peninsula. We truly put an emphasis on attention to detail in every fishing charter. Kenai Drift Anglers believes every charter should experience world-class fishing along with the highest quality boats and equipment for our clients.

An Alaska Fishing Season to Remember

Surprisingly, the 2020 Alaska fishing season was one of our favorites on Kenai and the Kasilof river. First, the people that did travel, did their homework and were prepared to take a Covid-19 test 72 hours prior to boarding their flight. They dealt with the Alaska State mandates and put up with many restrictions out on the water. All in all, it paid off to come in 2020, Alaska travelers got to see a less crowed Kenai River and a more scenic Kasilof river while enjoying World-Class fishing on both the Kenai and the Kasilof River.

Scotty was awesome. We had so much fun day 1 we cancelled our other excursion to go back for day 2. Super knowledgeable and patient with the newbies. Great time and great guy!

The thing that really stood out for me was at the start of the day Scott took time with each of us individually to teach us the fishing technique. As we caught fish he continually coached us on how to land them by ourselves. He hustled back and forth to work with each of us as we had a fish on. Also to note there were other groups with guides fishing by us that were not nearly as successful, as we caught fish at a steady pace until we hit the limit. Scott was professional yet very personable. We all had a great time, he was awesome!!!👍

We had such a great experience we're already trying to figure out how to make fishing with Scotty a regular tradition. My husband and extended family went out on one trip with Scotty and then my sister & I went with my 5 & 7 year old sons a few days later. Both trips were excellent. The boat and gear were great, but where I think Scotty really stands apart from other guides/trips was his communication, his attentiveness and commitment to his clients to have the best time (including kids). My boys had the time of their life and it is all due to Scotty's efforts on their behalf. Having a good ratio of adults to kids helps, but because of Scotty's involvement I was able to fish on my own as well and have a great time catching Sockeye. Lasting memories for all. Thanks again Scotty!

Until our Next Fishing Trip

Above all, we enjoyed fishing with everyone in 2020. We hope you and your family are staying safe and taking advantage of this time. Once we get some positive news in the world and regain the confidence in travel, without a doubt Alaska will be top, on everyones summer travel plans. Kenai Drift Anglers is looking forward to helping you plan your 2021 guided fishing trip on the Kenai Peninsula.

Scotty
Owner & Guide
Kenai Drift Anglers

The post Alaska Fishing Season Report 2020 appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Drift Boat Buyers Guide

Scott Daletas — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:34:00 +0000

Kenai Drift Anglers

Kenai Drift Anglers - Professional Kenai River Fishing Guide

Are you a bank fisherman or have dreams of floating those rivers your routinely fish or drive by? It may come by surprise, but realistically your dream is not farfetched. A simple Craigslist search and you will find Used and practically New drift boats for sale, routinely. I searched Eugene, Oregon Craigslist this morning and found over 46 drift boats ranging from $ 2,500 to $7,000 dollars. We have put together a Drift Boat Buyers Guide, to better assist you on your first drift boat purchase.

What should I be looking for when purchasing a Drift Boat?

First, you need to ask yourself what style of fishing do I enjoy? What rivers will I be mainly fishing? Are they fast, rocky, lot’s of hazards? Make sure you think future, with this new drift boat and some years behind the oars, you may start exploring more technical rivers. You really have three, all very different types of Drift Boats.

Wood Drift Boat – By far the most stunning and aesthetic drift boats on the water. It’s what my great grandpa used as one of the first fishing guides on the Mckenzie River, in Oregon. He swore by the quiet ride and is less likely to spook the trout. However, the maintenance required and elbow grease needed to keep these boats fishing can be daunting. You have to make sure the water is always drained, and constantly re-Varathane if you see any wood grains rising. Lastly, if you have a date with a boulder, a wooden drift is the last place, I want to be.

Aluminum Drift Boat – Mostly, the heavier option but the most durable material used for Drift Boats. You can take a 4-pound sledge hammer to these and it’s not going to budge. The re-sell value is great, aluminum prices are not going down anytime soon. Also, maintenance free, besides the bottom “which will get into more” but you really don’t need too much maintenance with these boats.

Fiberglass Drift Boat (Glass) – Great for low water, ticking off the bottom, and a quiet ride. Fiberglass, to me, is the hybrid of the three. It’s light, it rows great and it has good durability. However, fiberglass boats truly don’t excel in any of these categories.

Drift Boat Buyers Guide 2023

I run my guide service on the Kasilof and Kenai Rivers and is where I call home. In the last frontier, I rarely ever see a fiberglass drift boat or a wooden drift boat. It’s due to a few factors: Firstly, the weather is brutal on boats, unless you have a garage to store your wood drift boat, it’s going to be difficult to maintain. Secondly, the river structure up here is very rocky, with large boulders in many areas. The Kasilof River Drift Boat fishing is a dream however, it only takes a second of losing focus, and that boulder is taking you out.

Furthermore, when you venture over to Montana and Wyoming they love their Fiberglass drift boats. It’s all personal preference, if you’re fishing smaller streams that you’re not worried of hitting larger boulders, I would go Fiberglass. My one caveat with fiberglass drift boats is the flexing when rowing and going over rapids. I found, the loss of power with my oar strokes, granted I’m usually fishing the Kasilof River where the Cubic Feet Per Second in August, can reach over 10,000 CFS.

For most fishing guides in Alaska and private anglers, Willie Boats has the monopoly up here. Alaska fishing guides on the Kasilof River usually have Willie Drift Boats ranging from 18-21 feet long. When you move South to Washington, Oregon and California it’s more common to see 14-16 foot drift boats with many different types of manufactures. From Koffler, Pavati, Hyde Fiberglass, Clackacraft and Willie Boats, just to name a few.

Alaska Drift Boat Fishing

My Drift Boat for the Kasilof River and the Kenai River is 19’x66″ Willie Drift Boat. Aluminum is still King here, however the door has opened to glass boats. With so many new manufactures in the fiberglass world, you have options. To pick between the two, are the rivers you fish going to have sharper rocks or other hazards along the way? Do you live in a harsh climate where your boats may be full of snow all winter? If you answered yes to these, Aluminum would be my pick. You will have a bit of a higher sticker price, however, the resell of these Aluminum boats are incredible.

What to look for on a used Drift Boat

Is the bottom of the boat damaged, some scrapes are common but any large gouges could become an issue later.
How are the oars are they in good condition? Wood, fiberglass, carbon-fiber? A good length of oar is 1.5x times the length between oar-lock to oar-lock. We recommend looking at Pro-Loks.
Will you be running a motor? Does the boat have a sturdy transom for running a kicker? Is the Anchor center mounted or side-mounted, where you would put a motor?
Trailer condition, how old is it? Tire wear and how does the crank work? Trailer bearings are always overlooked!
Anchor rope needed to be replaced, large enough anchor for the rivers your will be fishing, rope length?
Fiberglass check for soft spots, Aluminum check for cracks.
Does the drift boat fit your fishing style and have enough storage?
UHMW bottom? This can run upwards to a grand, but today’s UHMW Drift Boat bottoms are incredible at sliding off rocks.
If you don’t have the funds for UHMW check out Wetlander, it’s a great DIY project for making sure you are slick off those rocks.

“Ask the seller for a test float, everyone deserves a reason to get behind the sticks”

Many factors come into play when buying a Used drift boat, however you can usually find some great deals on used drift boats! Just make sure you check the areas mentioned above. You may even request to take the boat out with the owner, who knows you could make a new best fishing friend.

To summarize, we still find aluminum is best for our drift boats. However, it’s totally dependent on your fishing style and where your home-waters, may be. If you have any questions please feel free to contact, Kenai Drift Anglers.

Cheers to your next Drift Boat!

Scotty
Owner & Guide
Kenai Drift Anglers

The post Drift Boat Buyers Guide appeared first on Kenai Drift Anglers and is written by Scott Daletas.

Kenai Drift Anglers

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