Russian River Ferry / Sanctuary

The feel

This is a classic combat sockeye fishery near Cooper Landing, and crowds are very high. The Russian River is popular for its runs of sockeye salmon, and the fishing here is fly-only, with a single unbaited hook.

Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are also caught, and the rainbows run 12-18 in from June to September. Open dates and limits here shift with escapement and emergency orders. This is bear country.

What to expect

Water and access

A river on the Kenai Peninsula. Cross the Kenai on the Russian River Ferry (there is a fee) or take the Sportsmans Landing trail. There is no bank vehicle access past the trailhead.

Species and timing

Sockeye, 4-6 lb, in two runs, roughly mid-June and again in July. Rainbow trout, 12-18 in, from June to September. Dolly Varden are also caught.

Methods and gear

Fly-only water. Use a single unbaited hook, with flies on a leader under a set length.

License and rules

Sanctuary open dates and limits shift with escapement and emergency orders. The Sport Fish Information Center in Anchorage is at (907) 267-2218.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are very high.

Parking

Fee parking.

Hazards

Bear country, so stay alert.

Season and access

Mid-June and mid-July.

Mingo says

Plan around the two sockeye pushes, one in June and one in July. Check the sanctuary dates first, since emergency orders can change them.

Before you go

• Budget for the ferry fee and the fee parking.
• Rig a single unbaited hook, with flies on a leader under the set length.
• Call the Sport Fish Information Center in Anchorage at (907) 267-2218 for current open dates and limits.
• Stay alert for bears.

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