On Sat, 2 Feb 2008 23:08:41 -0800 (PST), "
wrote:

Basic query:

I'm planning a trip to Alaska this summer (July or August). Primary
reason is
not to fish, but wife and rugrats want to catch some salmon. We'll
probably be
starting in either Fairbanks or Anchorage, hitting Denali NP and then
can either
head down to the Seward or Homer areas.

Anyone have any suggestions for places and/or guides that won't break
the
bank for two adults and two kids....bears would be a huge plus.

Any advice is appreciated.
- Ken

Hi, "Good" Ken,

The Kenai River is halfway down the peninsila and has a good run of
salmon, with rainbows feeding on their spawn. Unfortunately, I think
you will find it very crowded. The town of Soldotna is on the coast
where the Kenai empties into the ocean. You can follow the river
upstream using Ak Rt#1 - it more or less follows the river for a good
distance before leaving it, but then picks it up again above Skilak
Lake. The Kenai flows into Skilak out of Kenai Lake.

The Kenai has a great run of salmon. In July you can count on fresh
runs of Sockeye, Pinks, Chums and Silvers. Kings will be on the
spawn. In August, Pink and Silver salmon will be abundant in the
rivers, while the others will be on the spawn. Beads (probably
available in any fly/sporting store in the area) will be the best way
to go for rainbows and char, while big ugly streamers will work with
the salmon.

Beside the Kenai, there are lots of smaller streams. Because most of
these creeks/streams are available by automobile, I suspect you will
find it crowded. Best to buy an Alaska Atlas and Gazetteer to find
your way around.

Bears? Since you will be in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, I
doubt bear hunting is allowed, so they are familiar with man, and
since it is salmon season, you will probably see them on just about
every stream you plan on visiting. If there are salmon in the stream,
there will be Alaskan browns feeding on them.

I recommend "Alaskan Rainbows" by Larry Tullis, available through
Frank Amato Publications in Portland, Or.

Good luck. I can probably talk the "Evil" Ken to go with you, if
you'd like! He hasn't eaten any children in at least five years now!
d;o)

Dave