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Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to make my reservation?

Where are you located?

What kinds of fish will we be fishing for?

What should we wear?

What should we bring?

Can I Catch & Release?

How do I get a fishing license?

How much does a fishing license cost?

How do I find out more Information?

Do you clean the fish?

 


 

Q: When do I need to make my reservation?

A: Reservations fill up fast for many of the best fishing days. It is best to contact us in early-spring to start making plans. Space permitting we will accept last minute reservations but it is best that you call us in advance so that we are more likely able to do our accommodate you on the dates that you seek. We also understand that many visits to Alaska happen at the last minute so if you find yourself calling one-week in advance we just might have space available . One word of advise though, many people that wait to book their fishing until they get to Alaska are are sorely disappointed that the best times are taken when they want to go with us or many of the other fishing guide services in the area. 

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Q: Where are you located? A: We are located in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula in Soldotna, AK., a short 30 minute flight or a 148-mile drive from Anchorage. Allow yourself about 3 to 4 hours for the drive, as for it is a very magnificent trip with many photo opportunities along the way. Just head south out of Anchorage on the Seward Highway and drive approximately 85 miles until you reach the turnoff to the Sterling Highway and the towns of Soldotna, Kenai, and Homer.
Q: What kinds of fish will we be fishing for? A: Kasilof River King Salmon range from average between 15 pounds to around 35 pounds with an occasional 50 to 60 pound monster taken by a lucky angler. A realistic fishing trip will see clients catching fish in the range of 20 to 30 pound fish that is very feisty. These Kings are only traveling short distances from the saltwater and provide anglers with a great fight on lighter gear than we use on the Kenai Kings. Catch rates by clients tend to be higher during the early mornings of May and June and fishing from a drift boa provides many opportunities to see wildlife that trips on the Kenai River sometimes neglect to see. A frequent trip will include multiple "hook-ups" and a great Alaska fishing experience. 

Kenai River King Salmon are the largest Sport Caught King Salmon in the world with the Kenai boasting the World Record caught by a local angler in 1985 weighing 97.4 pounds. The Kenai has two runs of Kings that begin in June and end as the season closes at the end of July. The average Kenai King is between 40 & 60 pounds with trophy-class registering fish weighing in excess of 75 pounds.

Silver Salmon are caught on both the Kenai and Kasilof in August and September. These local favorites weigh about 8-12 pounds with several weighing in excess of 16 pounds. These acrobats are very feisty and are known to put on an aerial display. Besides the great scrap and delight of catching these salmon, visitors find August and September fishing  less crowded and very scenic with many of Alaska's fall colors in full display. 

Red Salmon flood the Kenai and Kasilof in July with the peak usually around July 20th to the end of July. They are caught from the bank fairly easily and are delicious. Most Alaskans' pack their freezers with these 6 to 12 pound salmon for the long winter months ahead.

Pink Salmon return to the local rivers ever even numbered years, so we look for them in 2002. They are known for their large hump that develops in males, hence the nickname "humpies". They absolutely flood the rivers in August and September and are great for anglers of all ages.

Halibut are caught in Cook Inlet by anglers departing from Homer and Ninilchik which are both a short, roughly 1 hour drive south of Soldotna. Our guides use fully-equipped "6-Passenger" boats that are both efficient and comfortable. Many years of experience in the local waters is crucial due to unexpected weather and sea conditions in Cook Inlet. We only work with Captains' that we fish with ourselves.

Q: What should we wear? A: The main thing that I always try to impress upon my clients is to bring enough clothes so you don't get cold. Dressing in warm, layered clothing will allow people to "shed" layers as the morning warms up or add a rain jacket in a afternoon downpour. That is how I dress. If you don't have a rain jacket then I can supply one. Just plan for 50 degrees and a cool rain and then laugh at me when it is 75 degrees and sunny.
Q: What should we bring?

Valid Alaska Fishing License with King Stamp

There are several places on the Peninsula where you can purchase your licenses once you arrive. That should not be much of a problem. You can also visit the following link I mention and purchase yours through Department of Fish and Game. King Stamps are required for the harvesting of any King Salmon and is not required in the fall for Silvers, Pinks and Trout.

 Photo Equipment

Some people prefer to carry small disposable cameras while others bring digital camcorders, whatever you prefer.

Lunch, Drinks and Snacks

Everyone needs to bring a lunch for the day. I will usually have some drinks such as sodas and coffee but I suggest bringing what you would like to eat and drink for the trip. You are welcome to bring a cooler or backpack to keep it in. We should have the room.

Binoculars

Your guide should also have a set himself to show you that eagle sitting in the top of a tree.

Sunglasses

Can get very bight on the water and make it hard on your eyes.

Good Attitude

Very important! I'll bring mine.
Q: How do I get a fishing license? A: Since Soldotna is a major fishing town in Alaska, there are several places that you can get your license when you arrive here. It should only take a few minutes and is pretty easy. If you are the type of person that likes to get everything taken care of before you arrive then you can visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Web Site to purchase your license online.
Q: Can I catch and release? A: If you prefer to just fight a few Salmon and not keep one, your guide will make the best attempt to revive the fish and release it safely. If the guide deems that the fish will not live if released, then we are required  to keep the fish and count it toward your bag limit. We will not waste fish and highly respect what these rivers produce.
Q: How much does a fishing license cost?

State of Alaska, License Fees
Nonresident License Fees

* Nonresident anglers 16 years of age and younger do not need a sports fishing license. For anglers not required to be licensed, a harvest card is issued and may be obtained without charge from any licensed vendor.

 Non-resident 1 - day:

 $10.00

 Non-resident 3 - day:

$20.00

 Non-resident 7 - day:

$30.00

 Non-resident 14 day:

 $50.00

 Non-resident annual:

 $100.00

Non-resident King Salmon Tag Fees

 Non-resident 1 - day:

 $10.00

 Non-resident 3 - day:

$20.00

 Non-resident 7 - day:

$30.00

 Non-resident 14 day:

 $50.00

 Non-resident annual:

 $100.00

Q: How do I get more information? A: The easiest way is to call us is at 1-866-896-7544 or 1-907-260-7544 and we can speak directly about your trip plans. We are available most of the time to answer any questions you have about our services and packages.
Q: Do you clean the fish? A: Yes, your guide will filet your catch and either put it in a bag for you to take to where you are staying to package yourself or eat. We can also arrange for custom processing with several businesses in the local area that specialize in vacuum sealing and preparing for shipment on the airlines with you or via Fed Ex / UPS. Many of our clients also choose to exchange part of their catch for various kinds of smoked salmon that the processor prepares. These local businesses also can get shrimp, crab, red salmon, halibut, and other seafood if you would like to purchase it directly.
   

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Toll-Free: 1-866-406-2398

Local: (907) 283-3153
 

 

Mailing address:

Midnight Sun Guide Service
P.O. Box 2497
Soldotna, AK  99669

information@alaskafisherman.com

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Last Modified 04/01/09 10:58 AM
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