Kasilof River bank

The feel

This is bank fishing on the Kasilof River for king salmon near Crooked Creek, popular in May and June. Bank access is at Kasilof River State Recreation Site and the Sterling Highway bridge. The river is quieter than the Kenai, and the crowd level is medium.

In summer the river holds a small steelhead run plus Dolly Varden, sockeye and silver salmon. Sockeye run 4-7 lb in July and August, and coho 6-10 lb in August and September.

What to expect

Water and access

Bank access at Kasilof River SRS and the Sterling Highway bridge. Dipnet access at the Cook Inlet mouth beaches.

Species and timing

Kings in May and June, sockeye in July and August, coho in August and September, plus steelhead and Dolly Varden.

Methods and gear

Bank, drift boat and dipnet. Bank angling with unbaited hooks in places.

License and rules

Personal-use dipnet is a separate fishery at the mouth and needs a personal-use dipnet permit for Alaska residents. Limits are set in-season by emergency order.

Crowds and best time

Medium crowds, quieter than the Kenai.

Season and access

Hatchery kings support a limited early fishery some years.

Mingo says

Aim for May and June if kings are your goal. Come in July through September for sockeye and coho.

Before you go

• Get a personal-use dipnet permit before dipnetting at the mouth.
• Check the emergency orders for current limits before you fish.
• Carry unbaited hooks for the bank stretches that require them.

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