2025 Kenai River Classic
Join us in celebrating one of Alaska’s most iconic events

Kenai River Classic

August 19 – 21, 2026

Join us in celebrating one of Alaska’s most iconic events on the greatest sportfishing river in the world— The Kenai River.

During the 34th Annual Kenai River Classic, you will have the opportunity to catch beautiful Kenai River silver salmon, raise funds to support conservation, and network with leaders from around Alaska, members of Congress, the Alaska State Legislature, and state officials.

All meals, local transportation, and two nights lodging are provided, as well as fish processing, a seafood gift box, and a customized gear bag.

Schedule of Events

All events are hosted at Harry Gaines Fish Camp unless otherwise noted.

August 19 — Welcome Reception and Dinner

August 20 — Breakfast

August 20 — Silver Fishing on the Kenai River and lunch on the boat

August 20 — Classic Banquet and Auction-location Soldotna Field House

August 21 — Breakfast

August 21 — Silver Fishing on the Kenai River

August 21 — BBQ Lunch and Awards

         August 21 — Kenai Classic Roundtable presented by Yamaha Rightwaters-location TBD

Kenai Classic Roundtable

Join us on August 21, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. for a public forum focused on sportfishing issues and the policies shaping our fisheries. Snacks and refreshments will be provided, courtesy of Yamaha Rightwaters. More information to come.

Registration (Register Here)

The registration fee for the Kenai River Classic is $4,000. The fee covers costs of goods and services provided during the event and a tax-deductible donation to KRSA.

Sponsorship Opportunities

By attending and sponsoring, you directly contribute to our mission. We have sponsorship levels for all budgets and many opportunities. Learn more here or please reach out to Shannon Martin.

Lodging

Your registration includes two nights of lodging on August 19 and 20. KRSA has reserved rooms for all attendees, and we’ll share your lodging details at least one week before the event.

Transportation

Shuttle service begins at 11:30 AM August 19 and ends at 3:00 PM August 21. Shuttles run between KRSA provided lodging and event venues approximately every 30 minutes. If transportation is needed to/from Kenai Airport, please inform Brittany Carr in advance.

Missed the shuttle and in a hurry? Call Alaska Cab (907) 262-1555 for a free ride. Tell them you’re with “The Classic.”

Attire

Your customized gear bag will be located at your lodging or at the Welcome Reception Check-In Station for those participants with their own lodging.

Fishing Attire

We suggest dressing in layers as early morning can be quite cold on the river, and then warms as the day progresses. Life vests are provided on-shore prior to boarding the boats.

    • Long underwear (preferably polypropylene, not cotton)
    • Warm long sleeve shirt (Fleece pull-over or heavy flannel shirt)
    • Warm jacket
    • Wool socks
    • Rain jacket & rain pants
    • Insulated rubber boots or hiking boots
    • Hat
    • Gloves
    • Sunglasses

Evening Attire

Business casual attire is the general dress code for all non-fishing functions including the Classic Banquet and Auction.

Fishing Information

You will need a valid 2026 Alaska Sportfishing License. A king tag is not needed. Licenses can be purchased online at Alaska Department of Fish & Game.

Your professional fishing guide will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait (if allowed). KRSA has already provided gratuity for their services. The Kenai River Classic event targets silver salmon and you will likely be fishing from a boat on anchor. All silver salmon caught must be retained. Caught fish will be pooled and shared among the participants. Each Kenai River Classic participant will receive a seafood gift box. Out-of-town fish will be shipped courtesy of FedEx.

Contacts