Deshka River coho salmon fishery

The feel

This is a coho (silver) salmon fishery on a river, reached by jetboat from Deshka Landing near Willow. From the landing you go downstream on the Susitna River four river miles to the mouth of the Deshka River.

Most fishing occurs in the mouth area and the lower 7 miles of the river. The Deshka is one of the more popular remote Susitna River fisheries, and many anglers use riverboats.

What to expect

Water and access

Jetboat from Deshka Landing near Willow, four river miles downstream on the Susitna River to the mouth of the Deshka River. Most fishing is at the mouth and the lower 7 miles of the river.

Species and timing

Coho (silver) salmon, late July to the end of August.

Methods and gear

A boat is needed to get there.

License and rules

Regulations may be changed by the Board of Fisheries, by emergency regulation, or by emergency order.

Season and access

Late July to the end of August.

Mingo says

Check for emergency orders before you launch. Rules can change in season.

Before you go

• Arrange a jetboat at Deshka Landing near Willow.
• Call the ADF&G Northern Cook Inlet office in Palmer at (907) 746-6300 for current rules.
• Allow for the four river miles down the Susitna River before you reach the Deshka mouth.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.