Kasilof River south bank (Cohoe Loop)

The feel

This is the south side of the Kasilof mouth, where Cohoe Loop Road dead-ends at the Cook Inlet beach. The sand is soft and there are no services, so the vehicle has to be able to recover itself.

The river mouth is about a quarter mile north along the sand. The state manages Cohoe Beach Road and the uplands around it, and the crowd level is high.

What to expect

Water and access

From Sterling Highway Milepost 111, turn west on North Cohoe Loop Road and drive about four miles. Where the pavement bends south, continue straight west on the rough dirt road to the beach. The river mouth is about a quarter mile north along the sand, and 4WD is needed to reach it.

Species and timing

Sockeye in July and August at 4-7 lb, coho in August and September at 6-10 lb.

Methods and gear

Personal-use dipnet at the mouth, or bank fishing. Rod fishing is a separate fishery under the sport regulations.

License and rules

The dipnet fishery needs a personal-use permit and is for Alaska residents only. It is open June 25 through August 7, 24 hours per day, and can close at any time by emergency order. No king salmon may be kept.

Crowds and best time

High crowds.

Hazards

Soft sand. Do not take a vehicle you cannot recover, such as a motorhome, onto the beach. Drive only along the shore above the high tide mark but below the dunes.

Bathrooms and water

No toilets and no trash service. Pack out everything.

Season and access

Late June to August. No posted fee.

Mingo says

Aim for the sockeye run first, then the later coho. Check the current rules for open dates before the drive.

Before you go

• Bring a vehicle with 4WD and a way to recover it.
• Carry your personal-use dipnet permit and mark your salmon.
• Fires are allowed only on the beach below the high tide line and never within 25 feet of vegetation.

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