Valdez Kids Reel in Excitement at Annual Pink Salmon Derby

The Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby is a highly anticipated annual event that brings families together to celebrate the joy of fishing and community. This year's edition was no exception, as young anglers from across Alaska and beyond converged on the picturesque town of Valdez to test their skills and make lasting memories.

Unleashing the Thrill of Fishing for the Next Generation

Catching the Tide of Excitement

The 2024 Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby was a resounding success, with children of all ages reeling in their catch amidst the stunning natural backdrop of the Port of Valdez. Devon Snorek, a young angler from Fairbanks, recounted her family's experience, saying, "The tide came up and the fish just started slamming about every other cast. We ended up with a total of eight fish, and it was the first time my six-year-old son Robert had caught a salmon. Watching him reel it in and the joy on his face was phenomenal, especially as the sea lions popped up and yelled at us for taking their fish."

Passing the Fishing Torch

Samantha Pennell, a Wasilla native who grew up participating in the Valdez Kids Derby, shared her enthusiasm for the event. "I have been doing this Derby for as long as I can remember. It was a very exciting thing then, and it's exciting to do it with my kids now. I think it gives them a sense of independence when they are able to cast and get a fish on by themselves and reel it in. It's a big confidence boost." Pennell's daughter, Anabelle, echoed this sentiment, exclaiming, "I learned how to catch by myself!"

Inspiring the Next Generation of Broadcasters

The Valdez Kids Derby is not just about fishing; it also fosters a love for community and media. This year, eight kids in grades 5 through 10 attended a Kids Broadcasting camp at the local radio station, KVAK, and created a one-hour live radio show for their peers. The phone rang off the hook as the young broadcasters DJ'd, ran the board, and took callers. Several kids won prizes, including ice cream cones and 10 pounds of jellybeans for Brodey Colter of Salcha.

Rewarding Young Anglers

The Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby provided more than just a fun day on the water. The event also recognized the achievements of the young participants, with four lucky kids winning 0 cash prizes in their respective age divisions. The winners were Hudson Lukens of Fairbanks, Breanna Stauner of Fairbanks, Lucy Kane of Wasilla, and Joslyn Unger of Valdez. Additionally, eight other kids won fishing poles from the Valdez Prospector, further encouraging their passion for the sport.The Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby continues to be a cherished tradition that brings families together, fosters a love for the outdoors, and inspires the next generation of anglers and community leaders. As the sun sets on another successful event, the anticipation for the 2025 derby is already building, with young hearts and minds eager to once again experience the thrill of catching the perfect pink salmon.