VALDEZ FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Night and Day on the Gulf: 24-Hour Halibut and Combination Fishing Out of Valdez
A compact guide to Big Alaska Fishing Charters' overnight halibut/combination trips — what to expect, how the day flows, and the practical details you need to board on time.
Night and Day on the Gulf: 24-Hour Halibut and Combination Fishing Out of Valdez.
Big Alaska Fishing Charters runs 24‑hour overnight halibut and combination fishing trips out of Valdez, fielding two dedicated vessels and experienced captains who aim to put every guest on limits of halibut, lingcod (in season) and more than 30 species of rockfish while offering opportunities to linger for wildlife and scenery.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Trophy Halibut, Lingcod and 30+ Rockfish
The charters are aimed at trophy‑size halibut and lingcod (lingcod season typically opens after July 1) and a broad assortment of rockfish — over thirty species — giving anglers a chance at a varied, heavy‑action day.
Two Vessels, Local Captains
Big Alaska Fishing Charters runs two boats and assigns experienced captains whose priority is getting everyone aboard into productive fishing areas and ensuring a strong chance to hit personal and legal limits.
A Long Day That Adapts to the Catch
Charters start early and travel roughly two to two‑and‑a‑half hours to grounds; the day begins with halibut, then moves to rockfish and lingcod grounds, with time at the end reserved for sightseeing or an early return at guests' preference.
What the day feels like
How the 24‑Hour Combination Trip Feels
The outing unfolds as a compact, purposeful fishing expedition: check in at the vessel, run a couple hours to halibut grounds, work that fishery until limits are met, then relocate for rockfish and lingcod action — all with captains focused on maximizing each guest’s catch while leaving room to pause for photos and marine sightings.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and the key limitation to plan around.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator supplies all fishing equipment; guests who prefer their own rods are welcome to bring them. Guests must have a current fishing license available for verification at check‑in.
Everything needed to fish is provided by the charter; personal “lucky” rods or gear may be used at the angler’s discretion.
Upon arriving to the vessel you will be checked in and your fishing license verified; the crew will conduct a brief meeting to review safety equipment and the plan for the day.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the trip duration?
These are 24‑hour overnight halibut/combination charters.
Where and when do I meet the boat?
Combination trips depart the Valdez small boat harbor at 6:00 a.m.; guests should arrive by 5:45 a.m. to check in. Specific slips depend on vessel: F/V Christie Lynnie departs from slip I‑01 and F/V Hooked Up departs from slip E‑2.
What species will we target and when is lingcod available?
Trips target halibut, more than 30 species of rockfish, and trophy lingcod when in season (lingcod season usually opens after July 1).
Do I need to bring my own fishing gear and license?
The charter supplies all fishing gear, but guests are welcome to bring personal equipment; you must have a current fishing license which will be verified at check‑in.
How long do we travel to the fishing grounds?
Travel time to and from the fishing grounds is generally two to two‑and‑a‑half hours each way, depending on weather.
What happens to my catch when we return?
Before returning the crew notifies local fish cutters of the arrival time; at the dock the crew will cart fish to the cleaning stations where cutters will fillet fish for a nominal fee.
What if weather prevents halibut fishing in August or September?
If a booked halibut charter in August or September cannot fish for halibut due to weather, you consent to be switched to a salmon charter instead; you will be refunded the price difference if this occurs.
Is there a passenger limit aboard these charters?
Yes — halibut/combination charters have a maximum of six people, whether booked individually or as a full‑boat charter.