Kenai River fishing guides are definitely not a “dime a dozen” even though there certainly are plenty of us. The Kenai River could be the most popular roadside fishery in the nation, if not the world. Sure, we are all fishy anglers, knowledgeable about the Kenai River, but there is much more to being a fishing guide on the Kenai River. It’s quite the commitment for total strangers to exchange money in return for a good time on the river and to catch fish. But there is much more than just catching fish. All want to have a fun time while doing so, including the guide.
The Commitment of a Seasoned Guide
Many guides leave it up to you to recognize the reasons to book with them. Top Kenai River fishing guides will fish all season from start to finish, including the early season on the Kasilof. Bouncing back and forth between these two rivers, fishing multiple species gives their clients the best success rates—plus keeps them sharp and “in the know” when it comes to fish activity on the rivers.
In addition to knowing exactly what river or section of river to fish, the best guides will employ any type of gear or style to catch trophy trout and salmon. Being both a conventional and fly gear expert, they have the best instincts available garnered from a variety of experiences. Although a hardcore fly angler, I have personally embraced conventional tackle into my arsenal over the last ten years for guiding around the Kenai Peninsula. Employing tactics that may be less desired as a fly angler has enormous benefits, plus it helps keep this Kenai River guide’s fishing skills on point.
Fishing Expertise and Genuine Connection
The best Kenai River fishing guides will build rapport with you the first time you talk on the phone. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just about fishing for the top guides. Building rapport shows an invaluable skill that your potential guide can interact with all types of folks from all walks of life. I have firsthand experience with fishing guides who were amazing fisherman but the conversation and day on the water left more to be desired. It’s important to me that I connect with my clients.
The facts are the Kenai River is the most beautiful watershed, filled with great scenery and wildlife. Almost any average Kenai guide could suffice given the plentiful salmon, massive rainbow trout and gorgeous scenery within the Kenai River. What separates these guides from the best is that special something. Charisma, patience, attention to detail, on river coaching and friendly conversation are some of the attributes that come to mind. The best Kenai River fishing guides will have all or most of these attributes during your trip, while staying focused at the task at hand, ensuring your best fishing experience.
Walk Away with Knowledge, Not Just a Trophy
For a true Kenai River experience you should be catching fish, picking up helpful tips, learning new skills, maybe even a new fishing method. The best guides have that special something, allowing them to provide high quality trips while having fun. That special something is attitude, more specifically a positive one. Many Kenai River fishing guides work their butts off during our short fishing season. They may ask that you start your fishing trip at 3-4 am on some days. Getting out early is the key to success on most days guiding the Kenai. Kenai River guides do this day in and day out to provide the best chance of a successful fishing trip. A Kenai guide’s attitude must be positive at all times even with the lack of sleep we endure every season. Top Kenai guides know that’s what it takes to create a successful trip, exemplary fishing skillls PLUS the good energy to interact and be attentive throughout your day on the river.
