EVENTS

Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery

Solomon Gulch Hatchery presents a unique opportunity to observe one of Alaska’s largest fisheries enhancement programs. The hatchery is owned by the Valdez Fisheries Development Association Inc., and was completed in 1983. It mission is to ensure sufficient numbers of wild salmon return each year to increase the harvests of both sport and commercial fisheries in the Valdez area. The facility is permitted to incubate, rear and release 270 million pink salmon, and 2 million Coho salmon annually. This production capacity provides for an impressive release of 250 million pink salmon fry and 1.8 million Coho salmon smolts each year. The hatchery is located across the bay on Dayville Road, en route to the Allison Point camping and fishing area.

Bears, eagles, seagulls, sea lions and sea otters can be found feeding on the returning salmon. Fishermen of all types, may also be observed harvesting the pink and coho salmon near the hatchery. However, sport fishing is prohibited within 300 feet of the weir and fish ladder and within the brood pond area. Please respect all wildlife, especially maintaining a safe distance from any bears in the area.

The best time to view the returning salmon at the hatchery is July through October. FREE self guided tours are available along the hatchery walkway May through October. The self-guided tour is open at all times unless there is bear activity along the walkway. View the fish ladder and learn the history and economic benefits of the hatchery, as well as the types and life cycles of this amazing species through interpretive display panels and interactive videos.