When Does The Salmon Run in Alaska? The Complete Guide

Alaska is famous for its abundant salmon runs. Millions of salmon come back from the ocean every year to spawn in rivers and streams in Alaska. Fishermen from all over the world come to catch these huge fish as they make their way upstream every year. But when is the best time to go to Alaska to see the salmon run?

An Overview of Salmon Migration in Alaska

There are five species of Pacific salmon that can be found in Alaska – Chinook (king), sockeye (red), coho (silver), chum (dog), and pink Each species has a slightly different migration schedule, so the salmon run lasts from May through September.

The first salmon to start their run are king salmon in late May. Kings continue migrating into July, overlapping with the first arriving sockeye salmon June and July sees increasing numbers of sockeye, and by August they are joined by large numbers of pink and chum salmon Silver salmon runs build throughout August and peak in September.

• King salmon run May – July
• Sockeye salmon run June – August
• Pink salmon run July – September
• Chum salmon run July – September
• Silver salmon run August – October

But even within a species, run timing can vary by location. Rivers in southeast Alaska generally see salmon earlier, with runs building through July and August in southcentral and southwest Alaska.

For most places in Alaska, July and August are the best months to see salmon run and fish for them. But from May to September, you can have a successful salmon fishing trip by going after the species that are currently migrating.

Where to Catch Salmon in Alaska

The best rivers to fish for salmon depend on what kind of salmon you want to catch.

King Salmon

The largest of the Pacific salmon, king salmon can exceed 100 pounds. Popular rivers for targeting these mighty fish include:

• Kenai River – One of the most prolific king fisheries in Alaska. The season opens in late May.

• Nushagak River – A remote wilderness river with a strong early run of kings in May and June.

• Situk River – Located in Yakutat, this river sees a shorter but intense king run in June.

Sockeye Salmon

Abundant and hard fighting, sockeye salmon put up an acrobatic battle on light tackle. Top spots to catch them include:

• Copper River – Supports one of the largest sockeye runs in Alaska from June into July.

• Kenai River – Besides kings, the Kenai also hosts huge numbers of sockeye in July.

• Russian River – Feeds into the Kenai near Cooper Landing. Easy access and combat fishing for sockeye when the runs are peaking.

Silver Salmon

A favorite for fly fishing, silver salmon run a bit later than other species. Great silver fisheries include:

• Situk River – Sees an excellent run of large silver salmon from mid-August into September.

• Kenai River – Silvers build through August and run strong well into October.

• Fish Creek – A tributary of the Resurrection River near Seward, known for trophy silvers in September.

Pink and Chum Salmon

While not as highly prized by anglers, pink and chum salmon provide lots of action when they flood small streams and intertidal areas by the millions. Top spots include:

• Creamer’s Field – A state refuge near Fairbanks and a hotspot for chums in August.

• Campbell Creek – A small Anchorage stream with a big run of pinks in odd numbered years.

• Petersburg Creek – Located near the town of Petersburg, this creek sees Pink and chum salmon from July to September.

So by traveling around the state and focusing on different rivers as runs build and peak, you can catch all 5 species of salmon on their spawning migration.

Techniques for Catching Salmon in Alaska

The most popular techniques for catching salmon in Alaska include:

• Spin fishing – Using light spin tackle allows anglers to cast lures like spinners, spoons and plugs. This method is effective for targeting salmon holding in deeper pools and holes.

• Fly fishing – Floating line fly fishing excels at catching salmon in shallower riffles and tailouts. Popular flies imitate salmon eggs, small fish, and streamers.

• Drift fishing – Also called backtrolling, this involves slowly motoring upstream while trailing baited hooks near the bottom behind the boat. An effective method for covering water to find feeding salmon.

• Bank fishing – Accessible rivers see fishermen stationed on shore casting out into passing schools of salmon. Can be a very productive method when runs are peaking.

The best approach depends on the type of water, fishing regulations, and personal preference. On guided fishing trips, experienced guides will help anglers choose the best location and technique to catch salmon.

Why Salmon Return to Alaska

What drives salmon to make their incredible journey every year? It all comes down to the urge to spawn.

Salmon are anadromous fish, meaning they are born in freshwater but spend their adult life at sea. When they reach maturity after 1 to 5 years, they use their acute sense of smell to return to their natal stream to breed.

Some key facts about the salmon life cycle:

• Salmon migrate from their rearing grounds in the ocean back to the exact freshwater site of their birth.

• Spawning salmon undergo physical changes to adapt from saltwater to freshwater.

• Females lay eggs in gravel nests called redds. Males fertilize the eggs.

• Most adult salmon die after spawning. Their decaying bodies provide nutrients to the stream ecosystem.

• Eggs hatch into juveniles called smolt and then migrate to the ocean to continue the lifecycle.

This drive to procreate compels salmon to brave predators, ocean storms, and rushing rivers on their journey. Anglers are able to intercept salmon during this run, providing some truly thrilling fishing opportunities.

Booking a Salmon Fishing Trip in Alaska

To experience the salmon run in Alaska at its peak, consider booking a guided fishing trip. Top destinations like the Kenai Peninsula have numerous guide services and lodges to choose from.

Benefits of a guided salmon fishing trip include:

• Access to the best fishing locations
• Dialed in timing for peak salmon runs
• Gear and tackle provided
• Cleaning and packaging your catch
• Local knowledge on migratory patterns
• Insights on salmon biology and ecology

Multi-day trips allow you to fish a variety of rivers as the runs progress. Packages often include fishing, accommodation, meals, and transportation.

For a remote, DIY-style experience, you can also book fishing trips that fly into wilderness lodges by floatplane. These trips access untouched fisheries deep in the Alaskan wilderness far from any roads.

No matter what type of experience you choose, salmon fishing in Alaska is sure to provide lasting memories battling these iconic fish on their home turf. The abundance of wild salmon makes Alaska a bucket list destination for anglers across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best salmon fishing in Alaska?

Some top salmon fishing destinations in Alaska include the Kenai River, Copper River, Situk River, Nushagak River, and the rivers around Kodiak Island. The best spots change throughout the season as different salmon runs build and peak.

What month is peak salmon fishing in Alaska?

The peak of the salmon run is generally July and August. But good salmon fishing can be found from May through September by targeting different species seasonally.

What is the biggest salmon caught in Alaska?

The current state record for the largest Chinook salmon caught in Alaska is 97 pounds, 9 ounces. It was caught on the Kenai River in 1985.

Do you need a license to fish in Alaska?

Yes, all anglers over the age of 16 need an Alaska fishing license. Short-term tourist licenses are available. Most guided trips include the license in their package pricing.

Are there salmon in the Arctic rivers?

Some Arctic rivers and streams in northern and western Alaska do support populations of salmon. But most major commercial and recreational salmon fisheries are located in southeast, southcentral, and southwest Alaska.

Experience Alaska’s Epic Salmon Runs

The annual return of millions of salmon is a natural wonder unique to Alaska. Their immense numbers and determination create unmatched angling opportunities. By planning a salmon fishing trip during the correct run timing, you can experience these mighty fish in their peak spawning colors. Nothing beats hooking bright red sockeye, majestic king salmon, or acrobatic silver salmon on their journey upstream. From remote rivers to accessible streams near towns, Alaska offers endless options for an unforgettable salmon fishing adventure.