FISH PROCESSING

Kenai River Fish Processing Made Easy

At Explore Kenai, we make Kenai River fish processing simple, fast, and stress-free. Our onsite service is designed for anglers who want a seamless experience from river to freezer.

For a flat rate of $2.50 per pound, your catch is professionally handled so you can focus on enjoying your Alaska fishing trip.

Onsite Fish Processing – From River to Freezer

Your fish are filleted immediately on the river or at our private Kenai River property, then delivered directly to our trusted processor—no long lines, no delays, no hassle.

Every fish is:

• Weighed accurately 
• Vacuum-sealed for freshness 
• Clearly labeled 
• Frozen for transport 

This ensures your Alaska salmon stays fresh and travel-ready.

Important: Processed fish must be picked up within 48 hours after your trip to maintain quality.

Alternative Fish Processing Options

If you choose not to use our onsite service, we recommend bringing a large insulated cooler with ice, especially if you plan to transport fish to Anchorage for processing.

Shipping Fish vs. Flying Home with Fish

Once your fish is processed, you have two main options to get it home:

Option 1: Ship Your Fish Home

Shipping is the most convenient, hands-off option.

• 50lb box (2-day shipping): ~$200 
• Overnight shipping: ~$300 
• Best for travelers who prefer not to carry fish 

You can ship via:

• Fed Ex (Nearest Location)
• UPS (Nearest Location)

Option 2: Check Fish as Airline Baggage (Most Popular)

Bringing your fish home as a checked bag is the most budget-friendly option.

• ✔ Accepted by most major airlines 
• ✔ Significant cost savings 
• ✔ Ideal for anglers traveling with frozen fish boxes 

We strongly recommend checking your airline’s specific fish transport policies and baggage fees before your trip.

Anchorage Airport Fish Storage (Overnight Option)

If you're staying overnight in Anchorage, you can store your fish at:

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport – Cold Storage Facility

• South Terminal, Level 1 (next to Baggage Claim 4) 
• Hours: 4:00 AM – Midnight 
• Cost: $20–$30 per box per day 
• Phone: 907-248-0373 

A boarding pass is required for access..

Why Choose Explore Kenai for Fish Processing?

• Onsite convenience (no waiting in line) 
• Faster turnaround times 
• Professional packaging for travel 
• Seamless experience from fishing to freezer 

We’re happy to help you choose the best option for your trip and ensure your Kenai River salmon makes it home in perfect condition.

Recommended Kenai Fish Processor

If you prefer an offsite option, we highly recommend:

Custom Seafoods

• Located off Kenai Spur Highway 
• Just 6 minutes from our private Kenai River access 

They are a trusted local processor known for quality and reliability.