|
|
|
|
Russian River Fishing Dangers
Most of the dangers of fishing the Russian River are caused by so many
people being in one location. However, this is a fairly remote location,
especially if you hike in above the Lower Russian Lake. Emergency services
are available in Cooper’s Landing, and more advanced medical support
is available in Soldotna, 40 miles to the west.
Combat Fishing
The Russian River is one of the premier places for combat
fishing anywhere in the world. If you have never tried it, give it
a try. Some people, very gregarious people, actually even prefer combat
fishing to remote fishing because of the socializing that goes along
with so many people in one area. But be careful, eye protection is
a must. I was hooked in the waders three time in twenty casts by the
next fisherman once. Be sure to protect your eyes. And if you find
yourself next to a wreckless fisherman, move. Otherwise take the typical
precautions for combat fishing; play fish quickly, cast in unison,
and be careful when walking behind people. Because of the nature of
this fishery, you may want to leave as soon as you catch your limit
to allow someone else to fish your spot.
Over Use
The Russian River pays the price for its popularity.
Thousand of people bring a lot of litter and wear and tear to this
stretch of the river. Be careful to stay out of areas that are closed
for plant regeneration and be sure to pack out everything you bring
to the area. Stick to established trails or walk in the water when
moving around to avoid damaging plant life/habitat. Also, because
of the amount of people coming to this area, use the provided rest
rooms..
Bears
There have been several run ins with bears and people
in recent years. Recently, there was a trio of young brown bears that
got into the habit of raiding campground coolers for food. This was
followed up with a couple of brown bears being shot by fisherman.
Also there have been a few human injuries from bears over the years.
Remember, bears are attracted to the same good fishing that attracts
fishermen.
As a special precaution around the fish cleaning tables,
cut the remaining pieces into small parts and dump them into deeper,
faster current to keep fish corpses from piling up along the shore.
These left over corpses have tended to attract bears in the past.
Other than than, take all the normal bear precautions when fishing
the Russian..
Regulation Violations
Not that we would ever endorse breaking the rules, but
be especially vigilant at the Russian River because it is heavily
patrolled. Read the regulations carefully and make sure you fully
understand the limits, tackle limitations, and most importantly know
the special regulations for different locations around the confluence.
Unfortunately, you will see a lot of snagging going on, and there
will be a few that will be keeping the fish. Be ethical and legal.
Theft
With people comes the potential for crime. I don’t
know of any reports of theft in the area, but take care to keep valuables
out of sight in your car. The parking lots are nice and well traveled
so I would not expect too many break-ins here, but be careful none
the less.
Current
Usually, the Kenai and Russian Rivers are very wadeable.
However, during snow melt and after rain falls, the Kenai especially
can raise considerably. The rocks in the rivers are somewhat like
greased bowling balls and the current is typically strong. Take care
when wading, use felt soled wading boots and be sure to use your wader
belt. The belt is not there for comfort or style, but to keep water
from filling your waders if you fall in. Keep an eye on children around
the water.
|
|
|
