Klutina River Launch, New Richardson Highway ROW

The feel

This is an unimproved launch on the southeast bank below the bridge, inside the New Richardson Highway right of way. The water is swift and there are no tie-offs, but the launch is plenty deep to accommodate small and large jetboats.

The Klutina River is 63 miles long. It rises at Klutina Glacier in the Chugach Mountains, flows northeast through Klutina Lake and joins the Copper River at Copper Center. It is a major fishery for sockeye and trophy-sized king salmon, with kings sometimes weighing 50 to 90 pounds. Dolly Varden and Arctic grayling are also present.

What to expect

Water and access

Unimproved launch into swift water with no tie-offs, on the southeast bank below the bridge. It is deep enough for small and large jetboats.

Species and timing

Sockeye and trophy-sized king salmon, with kings sometimes weighing 50 to 90 pounds; Dolly Varden and Arctic grayling are also present.

Methods and gear

Jetboats of any size fit the launch.

License and rules

Contact the Glennallen Area Office of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 186.3 Glenn Highway, Glennallen, (907) 822-3309.

Hazards

Swift water and no tie-offs.

Season and access

The launch is within the New Richardson Highway right of way. The unimproved Klutina Lake Road leaves the Richardson Highway just north of the Klutina River Bridge.

Mingo says

Plan for current before you launch, because nothing here holds a boat for you. Big jetboats and small ones both fit the depth.

Before you go

• Call the Glennallen Area Office of Fish and Game at (907) 822-3309 for rules.
• Look for the launch on the southeast bank below the bridge.
• Klutina Lake Road leaves the Richardson Highway just north of the bridge, and it is unimproved.

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