The Kenai River is one of Alaska’s most iconic waterways, an 80-mile stretch of turquoise water winding from the Chugach Mountains through wild woodlands before meeting Cook Inlet near the city of Kenai. For decades, this river has been a sportfishing mecca, drawing anglers from around the world in search of its legendary King salmon. But like so many rivers under pressure, the Kenai faces serious challenges.

That’s where the Kenai River Sportfishing Association (KRSA) comes in. Founded more than 30 years ago by Bob Penney, KRSA was built on a clear mission: protect and sustain the Kenai’s King salmon population to ensure the river remains the world’s premier sportfishing destination.

Through a combination of habitat conservation, fisheries management, research, and education, KRSA has grown into a leading force for river protection in Alaska. Their efforts go beyond biology, they focus on keeping the Kenai’s cultural and economic heartbeat alive for local communities and future generations.

One of KRSA’s signature efforts is the Ted Stevens Kenai River Classic, a three-day invitational event that has become much more than a fishing tournament. Each August, the Classic brings together policymakers, business leaders, and conservationists to raise awareness and resources for the river. Over the past 25 years, the event has generated more than $18 million to fund projects in habitat restoration, access improvement, research, and education.

Kings of the Kenai, a Rivers are Life film, dives into these stories and highlights the power of a community rallying behind its river. From hands-on restoration to shaping fisheries policy, KRSA proves that conservation is not just about protecting fish, it’s about protecting culture, livelihoods, and the wild essence of Alaska itself.