Valdez, Alaska, is located in the southern portion of the state, near a deep fjord, on Prince William Sound. Valdez is one of the most important port cities in Alaska, and it is the northernmost ice-free city in the United States. Due to its location on Prince William Sound, it is a popular destination for halibut fishermen. If you're looking to do some halibut fishing off the coast of Alaska, the halibut fishing charters of Valdez have great opportunities for you.
Charter Excursions
The city of Valdez is home to 11 charter organizations that operate halibut fishing expeditions. These companies include Halibut Grove Charters and Tours, Aurora Charters, Delsbrat Charters, Fish Central and Seaclusion Saltwater Adventures. Excursions can take you fishing anywhere from three hours to all day in private coves and little-known fishing spots. Most halibut fishing excursions go out for 12 hours, however. The outings also provide great opportunities to view tidal glacier waters up close.
Types of Boats
The fishing boats used on the halibut fishing charters in Valdez, Alaska, are generally 32- to 34-foot fishing vessels that operate on diesel fuel. The boats usually include cabin space to accommodate all the fishermen on the trip. For instance, the Shark Tooth Charter company operates a 34-foot fibercraft vessel with twin diesel engines. The Dawn Treader has a heated cabin and sonar, radar and electronics.
Types of Fish
You may be coming to Valdez to hunt for the large deep-sea halibut, or you may be more interested in fishing the unpopulated streams for smaller halibut game. Both small and large halibut takes are limited per person and vary from each excursion. Small halibut, those from 30 to 60 pounds, are easier to catch in the shallower waters, so more are allowed to be taken. If you find yourself reaching your take limit in halibut, excursion guides can help you shift your tactics to fish for rockfish, cod, trout and silver salmon.
What's Provided
The fishing charters in Valdez all provide everything you might need for halibut fishing. This includes deep-sea fishing rods and reels, bait, fish storage, meals on board the boat and tackle. The price for halibut fishing charters also includes use of the boats, fees for the captain and guide and fuel for the journey.
Costs and Considerations
All-inclusive fishing charter boats charge per person for the excursion. As of September 2010, prices for halibut fishing in Valdez, Alaska, run from $150 to $285 per person. Most fishing excursions require a minimum of three people to operate, and a maximum of six. Most boats will also only allow a maximum of four fishing lines in the water at one time. You must make arrangements to obtain your own fishing license before you go out on fishing excursions.
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