FISH IT, PROTECT IT
CATCH & RELEASE
ON THE KENAI
A CONSERVATION-MINDED ALASKA FISHING LODGE
THE QUICK ANSWER
A CATCH-AND-RELEASE LODGE FOR CONSERVATION-MINDED ANGLERS
Marlow's on the Kenai practices selective harvest on the Kenai River. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden are catch-and-release only, and guides follow Alaska Department of Fish and Game emergency-order closures without exception. The September Trophy Trout program is built entirely around catch-and-release, using barbless hooks and cold-water revival techniques to protect the Kenai's wild trout population. It's the fishing lodge for anglers who want a serious day on the water and a clear conscience about the fishery they leave behind.
OUR PRACTICES
HOW OUR GUIDES PROTECT WILD FISH
- ✓ Barbless hooks for faster, cleaner releases
- ✓ Rubber nets and wet hands to protect the slime coat
- ✓ Fish kept in the water, with minimal air time
- ✓ Cold-water revival before every release
- ✓ Strict adherence to ADF&G emergency orders and closures
- ✓ Catch-and-release only for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden
These aren't marketing lines. They're how a family lodge keeps the Kenai fishing well year after year. Learn how the trout season unfolds in our Kenai River fly fishing trout guide, and how current rules shape the season in our king salmon restrictions update.
THE SIGNATURE PROGRAM
SEPTEMBER TROPHY TROUT, ALL CATCH-AND-RELEASE
As the salmon runs wind down, the Kenai's wild rainbows feed heavily and grow thick. September is prime time for trophy trout, and every one of these fish goes back. It's some of the most rewarding fishing in Alaska precisely because it's built to last.
Explore the Trophy Trout adventure or pair it with a salmon week through the Bucket List Package.
COMMON QUESTIONS
CATCH-AND-RELEASE FAQ
DOES MARLOW'S ON THE KENAI OFFER CATCH-AND-RELEASE FISHING? +
Yes. Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden on the Kenai are catch-and-release only, and our September Trophy Trout program is built entirely around it. Guides use barbless hooks and cold-water revival techniques so fish swim off strong.
HOW DO RESPONSIBLE KENAI RIVER GUIDES PROTECT WILD FISH? +
By following Alaska Department of Fish and Game emergency orders without exception, keeping fish in the water during release, using barbless hooks and rubber nets, and minimizing handling and air time. These practices protect the Kenai's wild trout and salmon runs for future seasons.
CAN I STILL KEEP SALMON WHILE PRACTICING CATCH-AND-RELEASE ON TROUT? +
Yes. Many guests harvest salmon within legal limits for the freezer while releasing all rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. Our guides help you stay inside current regulations for each species and handle any fish you release with care.
IS FLY FISHING PART OF THE CATCH-AND-RELEASE EXPERIENCE? +
It's central to it. The upper Kenai's clear water is ideal for fly fishing wild rainbows, and our guides tailor technique and gear to protect the fish. See our fly fishing trout guide for how the season plays out.
READY TO BOOK?
GREAT FISHING
THAT LASTS
Book a trophy trout week or a full multi-species trip. Tell us your dates and we'll match you to the right water.