What to Do: Fishing

Valdez's Prince William Sound is a premier fishing destination, open year-round, offering all species of salmon, rock fish, ling cod, and some of the most accessible big halibut in Alaska.  You can drop a line in from shore, your own boat, or take a charter into deeper seas.

For those looking for an opportunity to fish "big game" style, the waters surrounding Valdez offer salmon shark fishing at its finest.  These 300 pound plus sharks will test even the best angler's abilities and endurance. 

SALT WATER FISHING: TACKLE AND TECHNIQUE
Pink Salmon
Light to medium rods with spinning or casting reels. Line should be about 150 yards of 8-10 pound test. Pixie lures 1/4 to 1/2 ounce are the most effective. Any bright color will do. Remember to use a small swivel ahead of the spoon.

Most charters charge per person and include tackle, bait, and cleaning your catch. Half-day and full-day trips are available. Trips will last from 5 to 12 hours depending on where you are fishing, what species you are fishing for, whether everyone limits out early, and of course weather. Remember, Alaska's weather is unpredictable and could force alternate plans. Be sure to ask what is included in the price of your trip. Small boat rentals are available in the small boat harbor, if you want to captain your own boat.

Valdez is home to the oldest fish derbies in Alaska, awarding thousands of dollars in prize money each year.  Derbies information is available on the Valdez Fish Derbies website.

Valdez Fish Derbies Inc.
Season: Summer
P.O. Box 1053, Valdez, AK 99686 • Located at Derby Weigh in Shack near Harbor • Phone (monitored seasonally) (907) - 835-5680 • Web: www.valdezfishderbies.com • Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it • Alaska's oldest fish derby. Cash prizes for Halibut and Silver Derbies. Come to Valdez for the Halibut Derby, Silver Salmon Derby, Kid's Pink Salmon Derby, amd our annual Women's Silver Salmon Derby!