Guided Fishing for Silver (Coho) Salmon on the Middle Kenai River
September Fishing for silver salmon on the Middle Kenai River in Sterling, Alaska is an unforgettable experience. As a guide, I’ve had the privilege of helping anglers of all skill levels land these aggressive, hard-fighting fish in one of Alaska’s most scenic settings. The Middle Kenai, which stretches from Skilak Lake down to the Soldotna Bridge, offers a slightly different experience than the lower river. With crystal-clear waters, breathtaking mountain backdrops, and plenty of fishing opportunities, this stretch is a prime destination for both silver salmon and trout anglers.
Why Fish for Silver Salmon on the Middle Kenai?
The Middle Kenai River is known for its washboard gravel bars and deep holding pools, creating an ideal habitat for silver salmon. The silvers here tend to be aggressive, providing anglers with explosive strikes and thrilling battles. September is peak season, as fresh schools of coho continue pushing upriver. One of the great advantages of fishing this stretch is the opportunity to mix in some incredible trout fishing, making for an action-packed combo trip.
Techniques for Catching Middle Kenai Silver Salmon
Silver salmon are notorious for their aggressive nature, and there are several effective techniques to target them. Whether you prefer spin fishing or fly fishing, there’s a method that will suit your style:
- Casting Lures: One of the most productive ways to catch silvers is by casting spinners and spoons. Bright-colored Blue Fox spinners, Pixee spoons, and Mepps spinners are all excellent choices. A simple, steady retrieve can trigger ferocious bites.
- Jigs & Twitching: A highly effective method, twitching jigs involves using a fast-action rod to bounce a 1/8- to 1/2-ounce jig in pink, purple, or black colors through deeper pools. This technique can often entice even the most finicky fish into striking.
- Fly Fishing for Silvers: Fly anglers will have success using 8- to 9-weight rods paired with floating or sink-tip lines. Streamers in pink, purple, and chartreuse, as well as flashy baitfish imitations, tend to produce the best results. Silvers love to chase flies, and when they commit, they hit hard!
- Bobber & Eggs: Fishing cured salmon eggs under a bobber is another highly productive method. This approach is beginner-friendly and works well when targeting silvers that are holding in deeper holes.
Combo Fishing: Silver Salmon and Trophy Trout
One of the biggest advantages of fishing the Middle Kenai River is the ability to target both silver salmon and trophy rainbow trout on the same trip. After hooking into a few silvers, we can transition to trout fishing using bead rigs or flesh flies. The Middle Kenai is known for producing some of the biggest rainbows in the state, making this a dream trip for many anglers.
Why Book a Guided Trip?
A guided trip on the Middle Kenai River ensures you have access to the best fishing spots, the right gear, and expert advice. At Chadwick’s Fishing Guide Service, we provide all the necessary tackle, bait, and rods, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the experience. Our boat-based approach allows you to fish comfortably while covering the most productive water.
Book Your September Kenai River Fishing Adventure Today!
If you’re looking for an incredible silver salmon fishing experience with the added bonus of trophy trout fishing, the Middle Kenai River is the place to be. Contact Chadwick’s Fishing Guide Service today to book your guided trip and experience the best of September Kenai River fishing!
