Upper Kenai River

The glacial fed Kenai River flows from its headwaters at the outlet of Kenai Lake in Cooper Landing, 82 miles westward where it flows out into Cook Inlet. The Upper Kenai River drainage includes the Kenai Mountains. At the eastward point of Kenai Lake, the glacial fed Snow River pours in. The Upper Kenai River is considered the first reach of river that spans from Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake.

We can guide you anywhere along the entire Upper Kenai River, which is comprised of 17 miles of river from Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake. This section of river is drift only, so it is very peaceful. The scenery to behold is spectacular as the Upper river meanders through the beautiful Kenai Mountains. There is an abundance of wildlife to view also, you may see eagles, mergansers, loons, arctic terns, kingfishers, trumpeter swans, moose, bear, beaver, and the occasional coyote.

Depending on the time of season, we target Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Sockeye and Coho salmon using fly and spin fishing methods and light tackle. See our Season Dates section for what time of the season is prime for each species. We offer half day trips on the very top 7 miles of river from the outlet of Kenai Lake to Sportsman’s landing. On a full day we can cover more water, and will extend the drift further down river.

There are some class II and III rapids along the Upper Kenai River. They are fun little shots of whitewater in a basically mellow river float. We always respect the water of the beautiful Mighty Kenai River and we put safety first. Everyone aboard our vessels wears a life jacket for the duration of our trips, including our guides. We also wear life jackets whenever we are out on the water, during our personal trips with our family. Kids don’t float, and neither do moms or dads.