King salmon fishing is closed on the Kasilof River as of Thursday.
Beginning 12:01 a.m. on July 10 and lasting through July 31 , the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is closing all king salmon fishing along the Kasilof River downstream of the Sterling Highway Bridge, according to a Tuesday press release from the department. If any king salmon is caught while fishing for other species, they may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately.
Additionally, ending Aug. 15 , from the river mouth to the outlet of Tustumena Lake, only one unbaited, single hook, artificial lure may be used.
Fishers are reminded that, by regulation, Crooked Creek is closed to sport fishing until Aug. 1 and the same portion of a Kasilof River upstream of the Sterling Highway Bridge is closed to sport fishing for king salmon on July 1.
“King salmon runs across the Kenai Peninsula are significantly below desired levels,” Area Management Biologist Phill Stacey said in the release. “In an effort to achieve the escapement goal and broodstock collection goals for Crooked Creek king salmon, it is warranted to close king salmon fishing in the Kasilof River.”
For more information about fishing regulations and availability, visit ADFG.alaska.gov.
Jonas Oyoumick is interning with the Peninsula Clarion through the Kenaitze Indian Tribe Daggeyi internship program.
