Salmon Run Times in Alaska's Mat-Su Valley

Shulin Lake Resort is located in a region commonly known as the Mat-Su Valley which refers to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, located in southern Alaska, USA. It is named after the Matanuska and Susitna rivers that flow through the region. The valley is situated approximately 40 miles north of Anchorage and covers an area of about 23,000 square miles.

The Mat-Su Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering mountains, scenic lakes, and vast stretches of wilderness. The valley is surrounded by the Talkeetna Mountains to the north and the Chugach Mountains to the south, providing a picturesque backdrop.

Visitors and locals alike enjoy fishing in the Valley’s many lakes, rivers, and streams. Shulin Lake Resort is located 3 miles east of Willow Mountain and 26 miles southwest of Talkeetna, within the Cook Inlet watershed. Shulin Lake Resort sits on the banks of Shulin Lake and is also positioned close to the junction of Peters Creek and the Kahiltna River.

For many, a trip to Alaska isn’t complete without casting a line with the hopes of hooking one of the State’s highly prized Salmon. The salmon run in Alaska's Mat-Su Valley streams typically occurs from late June to early September. However, it's important to note that the timing can vary slightly depending on the specific stream, salmon species as well as factors like weather conditions, water temperature, and other environmental elements.

Here's a general overview of the salmon species and their approximate run timings in the Mat-Su Valley:

1. King Salmon (Chinook): The King Salmon run usually begins in late May or early June and continues through July, with peak activity occurring in June.

2. Sockeye Salmon (Red Salmon): Sockeye Salmon typically start their run in late June and can continue into early August. The peak run often takes place in July.

3. Coho Salmon (Silver Salmon): Coho Salmon begins entering the streams in mid to late July and continues through September. The peak run usually occurs in August.

4. Pink Salmon (Humpy Salmon): Pink Salmon have a two-year life cycle, and odd-numbered years tend to see larger runs. They usually start arriving in late July and continue through August.

Witnessing the magnificent salmon run is an incredible experience. Shulin Lake Resort and the Mat-Su Valley offer fantastic opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon up close. Enjoy your visit and the awe-inspiring sight of the salmon journeying upstream!