While last week continued the between run blues, things are definitely improving.  The rivers and streams of the Kenai Peninsula definitely produced fish, but anglers had to do some work to get them.  No doubt, the best spots last week were the Russian and the Kasilof rivers.  Likewise, the area lakes continue to produce consistent catches of trout and char.  Overall, it was a good week to be on the Kenai Peninsula.

Kenai River

The Kenai River continued to struggle during this last week of the early run.  There were definitely fish to be had and the sonar began its annual climb toward the late run.  From Wednesday on, the counter was over 300 fish per day with more than 600 entering the river on Sunday the 29th for a cumulative count of 14,858.  While the early run total number seems to be fairly average, the exploitation/harvest was particularly below average.

The water conditions have been very good this week with temperatures in the upper 40's to low 50's and visibility being anywhere from less than 12" to about 30".  These conditions were very permissive of a variety of techniques from back-trolling to drifting.  It seemed however that the fish were way more inclined to take eggs vs. plugs.

Today (June 30) is the official last day of the early run king salmon.  Beginning tomorrow, the slot limit will be lifted, however a change in regulations this will will retain the sanctuary closures through the end of king season.

The one jewel for the Kenai River drainage this week is the Russian.  Limit catches were reported frequently.  The weir count as of the 29th is 23,269 with over 1,000 fish per day passing the weir.  It seems that this run is very similar to last year, only later, as is many other things related to the fishery.   

Kasilof River

Once again the Kasilof was relatively productive, however it still took some effort to limit the boat.  Don Drury, of Drury Fishing, reported a great week with fish catches every day.  He indicated that this last week produced some nice sized fish as well, ranging between 30 and 40 pounds.  Again, the most productive means on the Kasilof is the drift boat, however there were some lucky anglers finding success at the Crooked Creek Confluence.

The sockeye fishing on the Kasilof is also looking very good with an above average start.  The last two years produced very good returns and this year is on pace to repeat that once again.  Presently, as of the 28th, there were more than 65,000 sockeye past the sonar.  On June 26 there were more than 15,000 fish. 

Cook Inlet

Cook Inlet halibut fishing has been good when the weather cooperates, which was only once or twice this week.  The Deep Creek charters were "blown off" several days due to high wind and seas.  The boats were out on Friday, however with some great catches reported.  The fish are still running on the smaller size but things are definitely looking up.

Area Lakes

The lake fishing continues to produce great entertainment and exceptional success.  Tomorrow, July 1, Crescent Lake, the premeir grayling fishing lake on the Kenai, will open to fishing.  This lake has a reputation of producing some very nice sized grayling.  They will take dry as well as wet flies presented in the gin clear water.  Keep in mind, however that there is a 2 fish per day bag limit.  And please be responsible.  These are very slow growing fish and heavy fishing pressure could definitely impact the quality of the experience.  Also, please pack out whatever you pack in.

Another option for some local lakes is Pike.  Here is information posted on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Site (http://www.sf.adfg.state.ak.us/Region2/weekly/update.cfm?area_key=5):

Northern Pike

• Stormy Lake has good numbers of northern pike and the lake has good public access. Anglers who are interested in fishing for northern pike on the Kenai Peninsula should try Stormy Lake for spring northern pike fishing.

• Many other area lakes have northern pike, but public access is limited. Private property owners may allow access, but get permission first.

• Pike can be taken using spears, bow and arrow (with arrow attached by a line), bait, spin, and fly-fishing gear. Try fish-shaped and fish-colored lures and flies.

• There is no closed season for pike and the bag limit is unlimited. Wanton waste laws apply so be sure to use, or donate to charity, all the pike you harvest.