Page 168 - Vacation Country Travel Guide
P. 168
Valdez Harbor
photo by:
VC TRAVEL GUIDE
you are fishing for and whether everyone limits salmon abound in Prince William Sound, while
out early, and of course, the weather. Remember halibut, ling cod, red snapper and black bass
the weather may be unpredictable and could force are plentiful a few hours away in Alaska’s most
alternate plans. Be sure you ask your charter what is productive fishing grounds.
included in the price of your trip. Small boat rentals Each year Valdez hosts fishing derbies, featuring
are available in the small boat harbor, if you want to daily, weekly and grand prizes as well as prizes for
captain your own boat. the largest halibut, pink and silver salmon of the
Prince William Sound offers astonishing beauty season. Derby tickets are available through most
as well as outstanding fishing. King, pink or silver local merchants and charter boat operators.
The Solomon Gulch salmon fish hatchery is
owned and operated by the Valdez Fisheries
Development Association, a not-for-profit
association formed with the mission to raise
salmon in order to enhance the sport and
commercial fisheries of Prince William Sound.
The hatchery has a permitted capacity of 270
million pink salmon and 2 million coho salmon
making it the “Largest Pink Salmon Hatchery
in North America.” Adult pink salmon return
to the hatchery waters in mid-June, nearly a
month earlier than other native pink salmon
stocks in the area. This enhancement program
provides for an extended fishing season for
local purse seiners and recreational fishermen.
VFDA offers a self-guided tour with
interactive video displays and interpretive
media to provide current information about
hatchery operations and the important role it
plays in improving the regional economy and
enhancing local fisheries. The ADA compliant
tour has many vantage points to take in the
breathtaking views of Port Valdez and view
wildlife in their natural setting. The tour is
open daily and is FREE of charge.
VFDA proudly promotes wild Alaska
seafood and offers a line of smoked salmon
and caviar products. These gourmet Alaska
treats can be found online or at the Loop Road
location.
For more information please visit www.
valdezfisheries.org or www.solomonfalls.
com.
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