Pink Salmon - 'Humpy'

The Pink salmon run in Valdez is incredible! The Solomon Creek hatchery releases over 100 million pink salmon fry every year, resulting in millions of returning salmon. Because of their two-year cycle, the runs are stronger in even numbered years.

Humpies are dark-shiny blue on top, with silvery sides, sporting large black spots on their back and tail fin. When spawning, the male's color gets brown to black with white bellies and they develop a humpback and hook nose. The females get undertones of olive-green with lighter colored bellies.

Fishing for pinks can be done with a medium to light action rod from 6-8', and a spin or bait-casting reel with 200 yards of 8 to 10-pound test. Use medium spinners or spoons in the ¼ to ½ -ounce range from the beaches at Allison Point. If fishing from a boat, troll and cast along the shoreline.

Humpies have an average weight of 3.5-4 pounds, and an average length between 20 and 25 inches. As the name implies, the meat of the humpy is pink.

There is a new Kids Pink Salmon Derby in Valdez where kids under 16 years old are encouraged to put their fishing skills to good use. Along with a little luck and determination they may just catch the biggest fish in the tournament.

Check local regulations prior to fishing for accurate and up to date information. To learn more about fishing each species in Valdez please visit the following pages: