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.
During winter, ice fishing in upcountry lakes and ponds is popular. In the warm season, fly fishing in these fresh water bodies excites most anglers in search of trout, grayling, and Dolly Varden.
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.
and old, all skill levels, the thrill of reeling in a record breaking white giant will keep you coming back for more.
Valdez and the areas adjacent to it are a fishing paradise. Here are some helpful hints and basic information to make your Valdez fishing trip more memorable.
• A state fishing license is required for anyone over 16 years of age. Licenses and regulation books are available in local sporting goods stores and grocery stores. One-day, three-day, 7-day, 14-day and season licenses are available.
• Each year Valdez hosts two fishing derbies. They feature daily, weekly, and grand prizes, as well as prizes for the largest halibut and silver salmon of the season. Derby tickets are available through many local merchants and charter boat operators.
• See Fishing Regulations for limits.
• Get the State of Alaska Fishing Report for Valdez and Prince William Sound.
