If you have ever fly fished in Alaska then you most likely have overheard the controversial, “Bead fishing isn’t fly fishing” mantra professed by some. While I am not here to settle that argument nor pick a side, I will say give the trout what they want. Fall time signals the salmon spawn. While salmon are filling rivers with eggs, trout are also filling their gullets with those eggs. Spawning season can provide so much food that some trout don’t eat anything else. Flesh and eggs are on the menu for these feisty salmonids. The Kenai river, lake, and all its tributaries are no different when fall comes around.
Known for its over-sized rainbow trout, the Kenai area offers many opportunities for anglers to partake in this mass feeding frenzy. This particular trip we explored some of the Kenai river and some of the Kenai lake tributaries. Bead fishing was our go-to offering and it sure did provide. The most difficult part of bead fishing is choosing the right size and color. Just think “match the hatch,” and you should be well on your way. Salmon eggs change color as they rest in water. Pay attention to the eggs circling around your feet. Doing so will steer you in the right direction as you explore new water.
Many trout were landed on this trip and a few hogs were also had. Most streams in Alaska have bead fishing potential so don’t be afraid to explore. Just remember that these smaller cousins of the salmonid family are more sensitive to handling. Using a fish-friendly landing net will make this safe-handling practice much easier.