Valdez Fish Derbies
97 Pound Halibut Leads Derby After First Weekend
VALDEZ, Alaska - Several feet of snow still stand on the lawns and gardens of Valdez, but a little bit of late snow did not deter anglers in the Valdez Halibut Derby. Justin Hoppe of Valdez hit Prince William Sound aboard Dan Orion charters and returned with a 97 pound halibut on Sunday to take an early lead in the derby. Shawn Shipman of Whitehorse was also aboard the Dan Orion on Sunday and picked up a 70.4 pound halibut. Hoppe and Shipman are currently leading the derby and are in line to win the weekly first and second place prizes in the Halibut Derby if their fish stay atop the leaderboard until the derby week closes Saturday. Read more >>>
Where are all the halibut fishermen?
Prince William Sound Charter Boat Association President Mel Groves operates Halibut Grove Charters in Valdez with his son Seth. Groves is concerned about regulations affecting the halibut fishing industry here in Valdez and compiled information to share with the community.
To read the editorial and find information on what PWSCBA is doing and how you can help, click here
Did you know?
The Valdez Fish Derbies engages in projects to benefit anglers and our community. In 2008, we purchased fish carts for the harbor. In 2009, in conjunction with other non-profits, we purchased portable picnic tables for events. Previous projects include purchase of new halibut hanging racks, buying and setting up of scales for public use.
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2013 Derby Dates
Halibut Derby
May 18 - Sep 1, 2013
Halibut Hullabaloo
June 14th - June 23rd, 2013
Kids' Pink Salmon Derby
July 20, 2013
Silver Salmon Derby
July 20 - Sep 1, 2013
Women's Silver Salmon Derby
Aug 10, 2013
Silver Big Prize Fridays
July 26 & Aug 30, 2013
