two children in lifejackets wearing hats in front of a river

Kenai River Junior Classic

Open to Children Ages 6–16

“Reel” Big Adventures

The annual ASYMCA Kenai River Junior Classic gives military kids a fishing experience in Soldotna, Alaska! Led by a licensed river guide, kids will have a chance to fish for silver salmon. This event is available at no cost and includes a complimentary round-trip bus ride from Anchorage to Soldotna, along with a fun, educational fair and activities.

This event is made possible thanks to a partnership between the Kenai River Sportfishing Association and the ASYMCA of Alaska.

Event Details

The 2023 Kenai River Junior Classic in Soldotna has ended. Check back in Summer 2024!

Military children ages 6–16 who are the dependents of service members of all ranks, including guard and reserve, stationed in Alaska.

No. Thanks to incredible partners, the Kenai River Junior Classic is put on at no cost for participants. Registration includes:

  • Round-trip bus transportation between Anchorage and Soldotna
  • Lunch and an afternoon snack

Registration is available online. Each child must be registered separately. Click the registration link above to get started!

  • 2024 Registration Dates TBA in Spring 2024 Priority registration for active duty military families (E5 and below)
  • 2024 Registration Dates TBA in Spring 2024 Registration open to all ranks of currently serving active duty, guard, and reserve
  • 6:00 a.m. Check in at the Bass Pro Shop’s parking lot in the Mountain View Shopping Center
  • 7:00 a.m. Bus ride to Soldotna
  • 10:00 a.m. Fun fair with booths and activities
  • 1:00–4:00 p.m. Fishing on a river boat with licensed river guides and chaperones*
  • 8:00 p.m. Return to Anchorage

*Each boat has four children, one adult chaperone, and a licensed guide.

  • Jacket/windbreaker
  • Sack lunch (optional)
  • Closed-toed shoes
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Snacks
  • Extra socks
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (it can be chilly and/or windy on the boats)
  • Life jackets are provided and each participant is required to wear one when on the water.
  • Adult chaperones are assigned to each boat.
  • While event staff are trained in first aid, medical assistance may not be available. For specific information or to discuss options, please call the ASYMCA office at 907-552-9622.

Adult chaperones are needed! Contact the ASYMCA Events Director at events@akasymca.org or call 907-353-5963.

  • Event Questions Contact Kenai River Sportfishing Association at 907-262-8588 with questions about the event itself.
  • Registration Questions Email events@akasymca.org or call 907-353-5963 with questions about registration.