moderate
4–6 hours
Participants should be comfortable on a boat and able to stand for extended periods; minimal physical effort required.
Join Valdez Outfitters for an exciting halibut fishing tour aboard Nunatak in Valdez, Alaska. Experience stunning coastal scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of catching your own fresh halibut in this unforgettable boat trip.
12 Hours
July 1 - September 6
May 7 - June 30
Valdez has been known for large halibut, with derby winners tipping the scales at almost 300 lbs each year. Not everyone will catch the derby winner, with the average fish are 25 pounds, but a large portion are 50 pounds and over. It is not uncommon to come home with multiple fish tipping the scales at 100 pounds. Our day trips are a full day adventure, leaving at 6:00 am and returning at 6:00 pm.
Valdez halibut fishing is unique because of the tours that go along with the trip. Most fishing takes place 70-100 miles from Valdez, on the way you can expect to see whales, porpoise, sea lions, seals, bears, eagles, and many other species of birds. To top off an amazing trip it all takes place in the natural beauty of Prince William Sound, with hanging glaciers on the mountain sides and seemingly endless waterfalls.
We are not a set the anchor and sit for 8 hours kind of charter, our goal is to catch fish. Our day is scheduled by what the tide is doing that day and where the fish were hitting the days before. During a good moving tide we may sit on anchor for 4 hours in what many consider the traditional way to fish halibut, create a scent trail and let the fish come to you. Not a bad way to fish, but not always the best way to fish. When some charters are “waiting” for the tide to change we are off drift fishing structure and catching fish all day. This not only produces big halibut but also ling cod and rock fish.
Our goal is not to catch everyone’s halibut and head home early. Our goal is to catch big fish and multiple species. We don’t leave the fishing hole after just catching halibut, we always also have the goal to catch ling cod (after July 1), yellow eye and black bass.
Weather can change quickly on the water, so bring layered clothing to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Protect your eyes and skin from sun glare and UV rays while out on the open water.
Get to the dock at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Follow guide instructions for proper fish handling and storage to preserve freshness.
Valdez was established in 1898 and grew rapidly during the gold rush, becoming a key port for Alaska's natural resource industry.
Valdez Outfitters emphasizes sustainable fishing practices and minimizes environmental impact through responsible guidance and equipment.
Layered waterproof and windproof gear will keep you comfortable during variable weather conditions.
Reduce glare from the water's surface for better visibility and eye protection.
summer specific
Apply before the trip to protect your skin from harmful UV rays reflected off the water.
summer specific
Capture stunning scenery and wildlife sightings during your adventure.