At Centennial Park, as the Kenai River flowed by, the Kenai Peninsula chapter of Trout Unlimited and the Kenai Watershed Forum on Saturday hosted “A Day at the River.”

Alongside the water — and sometimes in it — a variety of groups and people offered demonstrations and tips to prepare for summertime fishing. Local fishing guide Greg Springer taught a group techniques to safely and effectively fish for sockeye from a crowded riverbank; “Kenai River Trout Hunter” Hunter Heafer showcased spey casting to another group.

The event grew out of the annual fishing gear swap hosted in early May by Trout Unlimited since 2023. Organizers last year called it a great opportunity to prepare for summer activities. The gear swap occupied the largest booth at Saturday’s event and stood alongside other attractions run by the watershed forum, Cook Inletkeeper, Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association, The Goods and others.

The event also featured a series of speakers on topics like history and ecosystems, including a Q&A session with Larry Opperman, who hosts gardening show Growing a Greener Kenai on KDLL 91.9 FM.

For more information, find “Trout Unlimited Kenai Peninsula Chapter” on Facebook.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.

Larry Opperman delivers a presentation on gardening during A Day at the River at Centennial Park in Soldotna, Alaska, on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)

Larry Opperman delivers a presentation on gardening during A Day at the River at Centennial Park in Soldotna, Alaska, on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)