Emmitt Trimble holding his prize winning fish with his boat mates – from left to right,
Joe, Aaron, and AJ Isenhour

The Homer Winter King Tournament was held on Sunday March 18, 2012. After the harsh winter Alaska has experience this year, everyone was looking forward to the derby, which is unofficially the kick-off of the fishing season and a great community event. The week before the tournament saw captains and crews trying to dig out their boats from the unusually deep snow, and committee members trying to decide if the harbor would be free of ice by the day of the derby. Mother Nature was cooperative and the tournament was held, despite a one day weather delay.

Emmitt Trimble caught a 34.85 lb king to win the derby and a $9,933 cash prize. For a complete list of fish caught and prizes won go to http://www.homeralaska.org/winterKingSalmonDerby/2012results.htm

Photos courtesy of LB at www.alaskaphotoguides.com

The Kasilof River is a tidal influenced, glacial fed river just south of Kenai. It is a drift boat only river and a hatchery enhanced fishery. Over the last several years the Kasilof has started to out shine the Kenai in June. It offers abundant wildlife, less fishing pressure, and some excellent tidewater fishing.
And unlike the Kenai, you may return to catch and release fishing after taking your bag limit. And some days is even open to double limits.

An average king salmon on the Kasilof is between 15-20 pounds, but each year sees a few upwards of 40 pounds.

If you have never fished for king salmon and are curious about what to expect when you hook into one of these giants, watch the following videos posted on YouTube by ourselves and other happy anglers who have fished with us over the years.

The Kasilof River sometimes gets over looked because of its proximity to the mighty Kenai River, home of the world record king salmon, but it has much to offer to anglers. The Kasilof is drift boat only which lends itself to a different fishing experience. Without the noise of motors, one is able to enjoy the tranquil Alaska setting and wildlife. The Kasilof is a hatchery enhanced fishery which improves the catch ratio and allows more lenient regulations than the Kenai. In addition to being able to keep two kings, you may also catch and release after taking your limit. The Kasilof has been rewarding us with great fishing trips so far this season!

Serena with a bright Kasilof king salmon!