Born in a remote log cabin along Alaska's Hayes River, Israel Payton grew up fishing, hunting, and living off the land. Today, he serves as director of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game's Division of Sport Fish.

In this episode of The Fish Count, Israel shares stories from his childhood near Skwentna, including being weighed on a fishing scale at birth, growing up without modern conveniences, and watching his father fight a lengthy legal battle that helped establish a subsistence fishery on the Yentna River.

We also explore his journey from fishing guide to the Alaska Board of Fisheries and eventually director of the Division of Sport Fish. Israel discusses the challenges facing Alaska's king salmon, efforts to rebuild struggling populations, the importance of introducing young people to fishing, and why his first king salmon remains one of his most powerful memories.

And, of course, we talk fishing, including his annual tradition of "Trout Week" on the Kenai River.

It's a conversation about family, fisheries, conservation, and a lifelong connection to Alaska's natural resources.

The Fish Count Podcast is a production of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This episode was produced by Ryan Ragan and Amanda Luper. Audio and Graphics by Amanda Luper. Copyright 2026.