Tustumena Lake Road launch (upper Kasilof)

The feel

This is the end-of-road launch on the upper Kasilof, about a mile and a half below the Tustumena Lake outlet. Most of the river's drift trips start here, and anglers also fish from the bank.

The last stretch is 6.5 miles of washboard gravel on Tustumena Lake Road. At the end are ten primitive campsites, a hand pump well and pit toilets. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge manages the launch and the free primitive campground.

What to expect

Water and access

The upper Kasilof, about a mile and a half below the lake outlet. From Sterling Highway Milepost 110.1, turn east on Johnson Lake Loop Road, then right on Tustumena Lake Road after about half a mile. The road is 6.5 miles of washboard gravel and ends at the launch.

Species and timing

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

Methods and gear

Drift boat or bank.

License and rules

Sockeye and coho limits are set in season by emergency order, and king fishing is often closed. Check the current regulations before you go.

Crowds and best time

Medium crowds.

Hazards

Tustumena Lake itself is big, cold and notorious for sudden wind.

Cell signal

No cell service.

Bathrooms and water

Pit toilets and a hand pump well.

Season and access

June through September. Free, with no reservations and no hookups.

Mingo says

Time sockeye for July and August and coho for August and September. Stay off the big lake if the wind comes up.

Before you go

• Camping is free, first come, with no reservations and no hookups; pack out your trash.
• Allow for the 6.5 miles of washboard gravel at the end of the drive.
• Check the current Kasilof regulations before you go, because limits change by emergency order.

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