Kodiak's one-king limit runs three more weeks

Kodiak saltwater anglers can keep one king salmon a day, any size, through Sept. 15. On Sept. 16 the standing rule returns: two a day, two in possession.

The reduced limit has been in place island-wide since April 1, matching cuts across the rest of the Gulf of Alaska. It is the second straight year Kodiak saltwater kings have been under emergency restriction.

Many Gulf and Cook Inlet king stocks carry stock of concern designations, and 2026 forecasts came in below the low end of their escapement goals. Local actions have gone further: the westside Kodiak saltwater closure remains, and on the Karluk River, 93 kings were counted last season against an escapement goal of 3,000 to 6,000 fish.

King fishing "has been steady," Kodiak Area Management Biologist Tyler Polum wrote in his Aug. 25 report, with several fish over 20 pounds in the past week. The Fingers and the Inner Humpback rock area have been the go-to spots, and Ugak Island has produced kings mixed in with silvers.

Silvers are coming regularly around the Fingers and between Woody and Long islands, though anglers have to work through heavy pinks. Ugak remains the hot spot.

Anglers need a 2026 sport fishing license and a king stamp, and king harvest must be recorded.