Kasilof Special Use Area

The feel

This is a tidal beach at the mouth of the Kasilof, and it is a dipnet fishery, not a rod fishery. Alaska residents come here to fill the freezer with sockeye when the tide is right.

The beach is soft sand off the driving surface, and there are no toilet services. The crowd level is high during the run, and the fishery stays open around the clock, 24 hours a day, until it closes by emergency order or the season ends. Camping is time limited.

What to expect

Water and access

Tidal beach at the Kasilof mouth. Drive only along the shore above the high tide mark but below the dunes, and do not drive across the dunes. 4WD is recommended.

Species and timing

Sockeye, 4-7 lb. Dipnetting runs 25 Jun to 7 Aug, 24 hours a day.

Methods and gear

Personal-use dipnet only. Vehicle and gear rules apply on the beach.

License and rules

A personal-use dipnet permit is required, for Alaska residents only. No king salmon may be kept, and the fishery can close at any time by emergency order.

Crowds and best time

High crowds. Time it to an incoming tide.

Parking

No published parking fee.

Hazards

Soft sand off the driving surface.

Bathrooms and water

No toilets. Pack out all trash.

Season and access

Late June to August. Camping is time limited, with no published camping fee.

Mingo says

Plan your trip around an incoming tide while the season is open. Check for emergency order closures first.

Before you go

• Carry your personal-use dipnet permit; salmon must be marked.
• The beach is managed by DNR Mining, Land and Water, not State Parks.
• 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.