5th annual
Seward Rotary Club
Duck Race 1st Prize – $1,500.00 2nd Prize $500 3rd Prize $250 4th-7th Prizes $100
August 21, 2016 approx. 12:00 p.m. Lowell Creek Waterfall Proceeds benefit Seward Rotary Coats for Kids, Local Youth and Literacy Programs, Local Thanksgiving Baskets, and more!
per$10 Nee ticke t p d no t r to ewsent be in
Purchase tickets from any Seward Rotarian or: Urbachs (downtown) Sailing, Inc. (boat harbor)
Seward Silver Salmon Derby Booth (boat harbor) or Call 907-224-5495 (we'll deliver!)
Message us on Facebook “Seward Alaska Rotary Club”
Seward Chamber of Commerce
Rotary Winners and Chamber of Commerce Salmon Derby Awards presented Sunday afternoon at a community BBQ at the Branson Pavillion.
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to the
61st Annual Seward Silver Salmon Derby
W
ith a record number of coho released last year — 279,000! — we’re likely to experience an
unprecedented flood of fish returning to the bay. Don’t be surprised if these excited silvers try to jump into your boat, leap onto the shore and line themselves up to be weighed. Just like you, they’re all eager to have fun, win big and support a good cause! So get your tickets, ready your gear, and get out on the water!
Derby Overview The Seward Silver Salmon Derby® is one of the oldest and largest fishing derbies in Alaska. It’s hugely popular with locals, Alaskans from all over the state, and visitors from around the world. Anglers vie for the largest Coho (Silver) Salmon and try to catch tagged and other fish worth prizes in all sorts of categories. Not only is it a crazy good time, the derby is also an important fundraiser supporting fishery restoration and enhancement efforts, scholarships for graduating high school students, visitor center operations, and marketing efforts of the Seward Chamber of Commerce. Seward Chamber of Commerce
How it Works You buy either one-day ($10) or 9-day ($50) derby entry tickets (and fishing license!), then go fishing. Turn in your fish by 10pm each day to Derby headquarters; it will be weighed, recorded and sold according to Alaska Deptartment of Fish & Game special permit, with proceeds designated to fish enhancement projects. (You can buy your fish back for just $5!) Winners will be announced August 21 during the awards ceremony; prizes will be awarded within 10 days thereafter.
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Keeping the Boat Afloat Please join in thanking our 2016 Derby sponsors!
Jeremy Taylor Flickr
Gold $4,000
Silver $3,000
Bronze $1,500
Copper $500
Event Partner
Bay Barge Co. / Soo’s B&B / Sunny Cove Sea Kayaking / Urbach’s Clothier
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The derby starts with an official bang noon Sunday, August 21 It ends at
at 6 a.m. on Saturday, August 13. . See complete rules & regulations on page 9.
Derby Etiquette & Safety
Derby days are Seward’s busiest fishing time of the year. Thousands of anglers descend on Resurrection Bay — but the bay can only accommodate so many anglers and boats at one time! It’s big enough for everybody, as long as we all adhere to these basic rules of the water when boating in close proximity to others: Be courteous with fellow boaters, and respect rights of way. You may even want to brush up on maritime practices before heading out. Keep watch at all times, looking and listening for any danger — as per U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
Michael DeYoung Photography
Always boat with a buddy, and take turns at the helm or behind the reel. There’s also the option of setting anchor to mooch in the passing schools of fish. Keep your distance from other boats. One of the most common risks for collisions & accidents is multiple boats converging on hot fishing spots or start crowding schools of fish. If you can pitch something to a neighboring vessel, you’re too close.
Maintain safe & respectful speeds at all times. We know you may need to “let ‘er rip” in order to reach a distant fishing site in good time, but take it easy when leaving and entering the harbor or operating along the shore and near other vessels. If others are fishing nearby, cut the engine back and try to be silent so as to preserve schools of fish.
Let others know where you plan to fish & when you expect to return. It could prove difficult to track someone down in the open water or along the coast outside the bay. A little trip planning in advance can do a lot of good in the event of an incident. Share the fun! Our goal is for everyone to have the fun, world-class fishing experience for which Resurrection Bay is known.
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Tag, You’re It!
How Fish Are Tagged for the Derby
R
esurrection Bay silver salmon do not grow bright fluorescent numbered tags naturally. Instead, a team of dedicated individuals go out a few days before the derby to do the deed. You might think that everybody would volunteer for this job and get a free fishing trip out of the deal, but that’s not the case. Taggers and everyone aboard the tagging vessel are ineligible to turn in a tagged fish. That could be a $50,000 sacrifice! This year, Eric Clock will captain the tagging boat and bring with him a small band of skilled anglers, including his son William. The crew will catch and release Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock cohos at different locations* throughout the bay, bestowing each with a small, wire-like tag near their dorsal fins. The tag team will not know which fish is worth which prize. Tag numbers correspond to numbers in sealed envelopes which are blindly chosen to represent each award. Will there be a big reward on the end of your line? The last time someone caught the big money fish was in 2012, by local angler Mike Rogers. Maybe you’re next!
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
* In an effort to help the Alaska Fish & Game collect data on coho movement and numbers in the bay, the Seward Chamber shares both release and catch location information with ADFG.
& MS. GENE’S PLACE Fine Dining Packages • Lounge • Room Service • Conference Room • A Great Getaway! • •
Alaskan Family Owned & Operated 221 5th Ave., Seward, AK 99664
(800) 440-2444 • (907) 224-8001 • www.hotelsewardalaska.com
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2016 Seward Silver Salmon Derby Prize List Tagged Fish Prizes $50,000 / $10,000 / $5,000 / $1,000 / 2016 Silverado 1500 & 2016 Equinox* / 2 Round-trip Tickets to Anywhere Alaska Airlines Flies * One tag wins both vehicles! Vehicles courtesy of Chevrolet of South Anchorage.
Heaviest Fish Prizes 1st $10,000 + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee 2nd $5,000 + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee 3rd $2,500 + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee 4th $1,000 Cabela’s Gift Card Tagged Fish 5th $750 $50,000 / $10,000 / $5,000 /$1,000 Two mystery tag fish (two vehicles from Chevrolet of South Anchorage: 6th-9th $500 ____________________________________________ 10th ASLC Family Adventure Pass 1st $10,000 + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee 11th-20th Prizes 2nd $5,000 Misc. + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee
3rd $2,500 + the fish’s weight in Kaladi Brothers Coffee 4th $1,000 Cabela’s Gift Card 5th $750 $500 6th-9th 1 Mystery Fish worth $1,000. 10th ASLC Family Adventure Pass First Silver Caught Largest Silver Caught on a Sailboat 1 Mystery Fish worth $1,000 Number of winners from out of state: 4 Prizes Largest Silver through Caught top fromtwenty a Kayak awarded Largest Derby-winning fish caught: 22.24 lbs. heaviest Cumulative Weight, Seward Adult Silvers Smallest Derby-winning fish caught: 15.04 lbs. Cumulative Weight, Non-Seward Adult Catch location of most Derby-winning fish: Caines Head (9) Largest Silver Caught from the Coast The smallest and the largest derby-winning fish were caught First Daily Heaviest Silver for Man, Woman, Silver Caught by women: Youth (under 16 yrs) Last Silver Caught – Shirley Baysinger’s (2002) 22.24 lbs. Largest Silver Caught on a Sailboat 61st Heaviest Silver Caught Each Day – Gwenevere Hudson’s (1965) 15.04 lbs. Largest Silver Caught from a Kayak Daily random weights Number of winners from Seward: 7 Cumulative Weight, Seward Adult Cumulative Youth, Heaviest Silver Overall Adult Weight, Non-Seward Largest Random Mystery Fish Silver Caught from the Coast Daily Heaviest Silver for Man, Woman, Youth (under 16 yrs) 49th Heaviest Silver $1,000 Heaviest Caught 61st Derby TicketSilver Yellow CopyEach PrizeDay $1,000 drawing during the awards ceremony from 5-7 p.m. on August 21st at Daily random weights the Branson Pavilion (waterfront) in conjunction with the Rotary Club. Youth, Heaviest Silver Overall Random Mystery Fish 49th Heaviest Silver $1,000 Derby Ticket Yellow Copy Prize $1,000 drawing during the awards ceremony from 5-7 p.m. 7 on August 21st at the Branson Pavilion (waterfront) in conjunction with the Rotary Club.
Prizes also given for:
Prizes also given for:
Fish Facts
Past Derby Winners WEIGHT FROM
LOCATION
2015 Jerry Bixby 2014 John E. Kennedy 2013 Taro Rich 2012 Earle Cagle 2011 Phillip Lazenby 2010 Harold Foley 2009 Kevin Daniel 2008 Renee Wellington 2007 Scott Martin 2006 Bill Wrenn 2005 Roy Hoekema 2004 Renee James 2003 Leroy Havellana 2002* Shirley Baysinger 2001 Scott West 2000 Bill Bixby 1999 Ken Bradshaw 1998 Wendy Goodloe 1997 Wilbur Francis 1996 Otto Hanson 1995 Kevin Cababel 1994 John Westlund 1993 Bonnie Hall 1992 Bill Bixby 1991 Jeannie Baysinger 1990 Adam Williams 1989 Jim Sumpter 1988 Carolyn Keeran 1987 Lyle Lewis 1986 Doug Popwell II 1985 Jerry Bixby 1984 LaRue Faust 1983 Loretta Bixby 1982 Eleanor Fern 1981 Betty White 1980 Kenny Blatchford
16.19 17.67 21.25 16.14 19.15 18.89 18.66 18.57 17.23 18.84 17.42 19.79 17.01 22.24 18.07 20.14 16.02 16.76 18.12 17.42 17.45 20.59 18.14 19.14 17.08 17.31 18.02 18.05 18.10 19.10 19.01 18.15 16.09 17.08 17.07 17.15
Res Bay Pony Cove Res Bay Head of Bay Caines Head North Hive Outside of Bay Outside of Bay Head of Bay Head of Bay Head of Bay Fox Island Lowell Point Boat Harbor SeaLife Center Head of Bay The Narrows Bear Glacier Fox Island Lowell Point Off Sawmill Twin Rocks Fourth of July Caines Head Head of Bay Fox Island Unknown Off Balance Lowell Point Fourth of July Fourth of July Center of Bay Thumb Cove Fox Island Twin Rocks Sunny Cove
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Soldotna, AK New Palestine, IN Valdez East Seward Kenai Anchorage Soldotna Palmer Anchorage Raleigh, NC Anchorage Eagle River Anchorage Cooper Landing Anchorage Soldotna Anchorage Anchorage Phoenix Ninilchik Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Soldotna Cooper Landing Anchorage Anchorage California Anchorage Anchorage Soldotna Sterling Soldotna Anchorage Wasilla Seward
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
DATE NAME
2015 Winner - Jerry Bixby 1979 Dorothy Urbach 16.11 1978 Charles Reft 16.04 1977 Eileen Albertson 17.10 1976 Dan Wheeler Sr. 18.08 1975 Sheila Erwin 17.04 1974 Wallace Martins 17.05 1973 Martin Fleihler 18.15 1972 George Knapp 17.00 1971 Terry Webber 16.00 1970 Miriam Thom 15.09 1969 Miriam Plourde 16.15 1968 Scot McEntinre 19.08 1967 Spike Schwald 18.04 1966 Phillip Rote 18.07 1965 Gwenevere Hudson 15.04 1964 Jerry Vezina 16.10 1963 Elizabeth Bordman 17.02 1962 Herb Stetson 16.06 1961 Vance Phillips 17.12 1960 Mary Ann McCartney 17.06 1959 Walter Kalerak 17.02 1958 Jesse Morrison 15.01 1957 Ed Burgen 18.05 1956 William Kupfer 15.08 *Derby Record Holder
Seward Anchorage Seward Seward Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Elmendorf Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Seward Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Anchorage Seward Anchorage
Thumb Cove Caines Head Caines Head Fourth of July Calisto Head Aialik Bay Calisto Head Caines Head Caines Head Boat Harbor Thumb Cove Caines Head Caines Head Boat Harbor Thumb Cove Thumb Cove Freight Dock Freight Dock Caines Head Freight Dock Lowell Point Freight Dock Pinnacle Rock Thumb Cove
TICKET SALES Daily Derby tickets are $10 and a Full Derby ticket is $50. Entry ticket sales begin on Friday evening prior to Opening Saturday at the Derby Booth located just across from the B Dock fish cleaning station at the Seward Boat Harbor. Tickets are also sold at The Fish House and select businesses in the harbor district. If a ticket is purchased on Friday evening, ticket holder must return Saturday morning to have the ticket validated prior to the fishing trip. Chamber staff and volunteers will validate tickets beginning at 5:30 am. Ticket sales begin at 6:00 am. Friends and family can purchase entry tickets for others, however you must be present to weigh your fish, showing your pink copy of the entry ticket to the weigh-in official. Derby Booth and Weigh-in station are open daily from 6:00 am till 10:00 pm, except on the last day of the Derby when we finish at noon. All anglers that will be fishing on private boats need to purchase Derby tickets. BOATS All participating vessels must depart from and return to Resurrection Bay on the same voyage (overnight trips are eligible provided they start from and terminate in Resurrection Bay, even if the vessel docks elsewhere during the course of the multi-day voyage). Participating anglers may fish inside or outside of Resurrection Bay, but because the bag and possession limits differ inside and outside of the bay, participants must carefully adhere to Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations applicable to each area. TACKLE Silver salmon to be entered in the derby must be caught on a sport-fish rod and reel. Entrants may have only one line in the water at a time. Entrants shall hook and reel up their fish unassisted. Assistance may be provided only to safely bring the fish aboard the vessel. Violation of these rules will permanently disqualify any individual on a boat along with all the boat’s occupants, or any individual on shore. JUDGING STANDARDS All fish must be hooked in the mouth. Only silver salmon weighing three pounds or more can be entered. Prizes are awarded by weight (heaviest fish receives first-place prize). Any fish weighed at the derby headquarters are considered derby entries and become the property of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby (all proceeds from fish sales are used to support Resurrection Bay Fish Enhancement efforts and approved programs). Participants may buy their fish back for $5 at the time of weigh-in only. Only the entrant who actually caught the fish may buy it back. It is illegal in Alaska to sell the fish to another party. This law is enforced and violators may be subject to a monetary fine by the State of Alaska. WEIGH-IN PROCEDURES All fish to be weighed and entered must be presented in the round (fresh, whole and uncut) at the judge’s stand at the derby headquarters in the Seward Boat Harbor. The derby headquarters will be open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily except for the final Sunday (6 a.m. to noon). All weighed fish become property of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby.
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An entrant must show his or her validated ticket at the time of weighing in of fish. Entrants must sign the official weigh-in ticket. All fish may be opened and checked. All fish weighing 16 pounds or more or those eligible for placement in the top ten heaviest fish will be checked by a derby judge. If a snag mark is found on any fish, that fish may be entered in the derby for the purposes of contributing to the Fish Enhancement Fund, but is not eligible for any prizes. Any evidence of fish tampering will result in permanent disqualification. Adult participants weighing fish must possess a valid ADF&G sport fishing license. DERBY RULES & DECISIONS Judges shall be appointed by the Seward Chamber and contacted as needed by the chamber employee on site at derby headquarters. Weigh-in officials are volunteers coordinated by the Chamber. The derby judges’ decision(s) and rules of the derby herein described shall be considered final and binding upon both participant and sponsor(s), except that the Seward Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has the power to make decisions in all matters pertaining to the derby, including eligibility, weights, time limits, fishing limits, right to receive awards and all matters relative to participation in and conduct of the derby. Judges may disqualify a fish or angler for any reason and decisions of judges on all matters pertaining to this contest shall be final. Should there be doubt as to the weigh-in official or judge’s decision regarding whether or not an entrant’s fish is a silver salmon, it will be weighed in and an Alaska Department of Fish and Game biologist will render the decision. If it is not a silver salmon, it will be disqualified. PRIZES With the exception of tagged fish, all prizes will be awarded within 10 days of the close of the derby. Prizes are based on weight of fish at time of entry. Ties for any place will be broken by the flip of a coin. The loser will be entitled to the next prize in line. Those entrants awarded a total of $600 or more from all awarded categories must complete IRS paperwork prior to receiving their prize(s). (See “taxes” below.) No merchandise prizes may be redeemed for cash. No prizes may be exchanged. Winners need not be present to win, although all prizes must be claimed in Seward within 30 days after the prize list is made public by the Seward Chamber of Commerce. Final prize list is binding and no other prize lists are valid. All unclaimed prizes become the property of the Seward Chamber of Commerce. The value shown on the prize list is set by the sponsors. The Seward Chamber will not be responsible if any prize proves to be of less value than what is shown in the sponsor’s estimates. TAGGED FISH A total of one tagged fish qualifies for a $50,000 cash prize. Other tagged prizes are assigned randomly, using a double-blind method. The associated value of each fish tag is not known until the entrant opens the sealed envelope that corresponds to the tag number caught. All tagged fish caught will be worth at least $100 if presented to a derby official for verification prior to the start of the derby or through Sept. 30, 2016. Envelopes for tag numbers caught prior to the derby, caught by non-entrants, or disqualified from the derby will not be opened. DAILY PRIZES Various daily prizes are offered for men, women and youth. Daily prizes are awarded based on weight or randomly, depending on the conditions associated with the specific prize. Each fish entered increases a participant’s chances to win the daily random drawing, which is drawn from the weigh-in tickets turned in each day. TAXES Any taxes on cash or other prizes are the responsibility of the individual winner. Certain prize winners will be asked to provide their tax identification number on an official IRS form. Failure to do so will result in the Chamber involuntarily withholding 30 percent of the prize amount prior to award as per federal income tax regulations. WAIVER OF LIABILITY The purchase of a derby ticket constitutes a waiver of liability absolving the Seward Chamber of Commerce, its officers, directors, staff, and sponsors of any and all damages or liability, which may occur after entering the derby. Contact the Seward Chamber of Commerce, CVB for more information 907 224-8051.
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© Greger Wright - The Wright Perspective
Silver Spots Cheval and Rugged islands, Eldorado Narrows, and Pony, Agnes, Porcupine, and Bulldog coves are often great spots to find silvers. You may also find success just outside of Resurrection Bay, either east and west, early in the silver season.
Harbor
Fourth of July Creek
Lowell Point
Derby Cove
n t i o c e r r u s R e
SEWARD
Y B a
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
Thumb Cove
Caines Head
Then in mid-August, cohos start moving in toward the head of the bay...and so do the sportfishing boats. You may be in the company of 600 other boats in the bay, all vying for silvers around Callisto Head, Caines Head, Lowell Point, Spring Creek, Humpy and Thumb coves, and offshore of the sawdust pile at the head of Resurrection Bay.”
Humpy Cove
Fox Island Stormy Cove
Callisto Head Bulldog Cove
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
Hive Island
Eldorado Narrows
Bear Glacier Point Cape Resurrection Rugged Island Barwell Island Mary’s Bay Purcupine Cove
Agnes Cove
Chevel Island
Alalik Cape
Just Say to
NO Y
Bananas
our fishing host or charter captain may ask you to leave all bananas behind.
This may include Banana Boat brand sunscreen, Banana Republic clothing and so on. No, the captain isn’t crazy. He or she is rather adhering to an age old superstition that bananas are bad luck for fishing.
Many have sought to understand the origin and validity of this concern and other fishing superstitions. Carl and Kim Hughes of Aurora Charters have over 27 years taking folks fishing, and feel like they have seen, heard and experienced them all. Of course here in Seward, we have figured it all out. Here’s our take: “Redheads Are Bad Luck” Could it have been Ginger’s presence that doomed the now infamous “three-hour tour” and stranded everyone on Gilligan’s Island for so many TV episodes? We don’t buy it! “Wear Your Lucky Fishing Hat, No Matter What” This is absolutely true. Especially because if you don’t wear a hat, you’re more likely to get sunburned, water-blind and/or land a hook in your eye. There’s also the theory that because lucky fishing hats are so old and stinky that fish are attracted to their foul smell...and, as a bonus, other anglers are repelled by it. “Never Whistle While Fishing” Fish don’t like to be whistled at. It’s rude and disrespectful. “You Must Christen Your Boat with a Bottle of Wine or Champagne — or It Will Have Bad Luck” Uh, no. We believe bashing your boat with a bottle of anything that could dent or destroy your hull is never a good idea. Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
“Bananas Are Bad Luck Fishing” Don’t bring a banana on board. Don’t have one for breakfast. Don’t wear fruit-of-the-loom underwear. Way back when, boats shipping bananas had to race to their destination before the bananas went bad. But racing meant no time to fish or trolling at speeds not conducive to catching them. This notion has been reinforced over the centuries perhaps because floating bananas were often the only sign left of a maritime disaster. Not good. Trust us, you don’t want a banana on your boat. Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
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Power Boat Prep & Alaska Boat Safety Checklist Know your boat. Before each departure, check that your boat is in good working condition, is properly equipped for emergencies, and that passengers are properly briefed. Avoid inconvenience and potential danger by taking a few minutes before departure to check the following: Lifejackets for each person (proper size-fit, worn, fastened) Throwable Type IV flotation device with floating line, attached to boat Fire extinguisher(s) fully charged, mounted securely Sound producing device(s) (air horn, whistle, bell) U.S. Coast Guard-approved visual distress signals (with current dates) Navigation lights Boat registration (properly displayed, certificate onboard) Proper ventilation, backfire flame arrestors (inboards) Drain plugs installed/sea cocks closed Marine VHF radio(s) and other equipment tested Fuel, oil sufficient for trip - 1/3 Out, 1/3 Return, 1/3 Reserve Vessel loaded properly and all items secured from shifting Battery fully charged, secured, terminals clean and covered Bilge pump and backup manual bailing device(s) functional Tools/parts (batteries, fuses, spark plugs, belts, prop, prop nut kit) Anchors (2), each with own chain and line, one attached to boat Auxiliary propulsion (spare engine, sail, paddle, oars) Spare food, drinking water, clothing, shelter (tent or tarp) Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock First aid and survival kits Navigation tools. GPS, compass, charts, maps, tide book Weather and sea conditions (forecast and observation) Float plan prepared, given to responsible party Passenger briefing: stability rules, proper clothing, float plan details, location of and how to use emergency equipment, how to start, stop and steer the boat, handling emergencies.
From the Alaska DNR, Office of Office of Boating Safety. Learn more at www.alaskaboatingsafety.org.
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Message from the Harbor Master
Getting Around Town W Welcome Aboard!
Mt. Alice Trailhead
t c e r r u s R e
Please feel free to ask the Harbor staff for additional clarifications of these rules and procedures. Our office is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm seven days a week. The office number is 907-224-3138, and Channel 17 is monitored 8 am to 10 pm daily.
Fish On!
Norm Regis
Seward Airport
Harbor Master – Seward Boat Harbor
ip Cruise Sh l a in rm e T
Map of Harbor
ck
Z
NE Launch Ramp
Seward Q Boat Harbor
R Fuel Float T Dock
J
Hig
I Dock
I
H
E
F
D
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ay hw
© Greger Wright - The Wright Perspective
J-Dock Fish Cleaning Tables
ve. Port A
Alaska Railroad Depot
L G
P O N M C B A S
Uplands
Public Boat Launch B Float Fish Cleaning Tables
G
South Launch Ramp
Seward Silver Salmon Derby® Headquarters Kenai Fjords National Park Visitors Center
Seward Harbor Master
Fourth Ave.
“C” Stre
“D” Stre
Third Ave.
Van Bur
S. Harbo
N. Harbo
14
X
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Visitor Center
Fish Cleaning Tables
Fish Cleaning Tables
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Please be sure to familiarize yourself and the anglers aboard your vessel with the Derby Rules as well as the policies and procedures that apply to berthing a private vessel in the Seward Boat Harbor. You can find all this information by visiting www. cityofseward.net/harbor.
Ballai
Nash Road
elcome to the Seward Boat Harbor, and thank you for choosing to participate in the 2016 Seward Silver Salmon Derby. We hope you enjoy your visit to our harbor and have a fun but safe time out fishing and exploring Resurrection Bay.
Seward Boat Ramp Procedures Avoid Ramp Rage, Carnage and Comedy in 3 Easy Steps 1. Pay Your Launch and Parking Fee in Advance. Daily parking and launch fees may be paid by cash or credit card at the pay stations in the parking lots. Season parking passes may be paid by cash, check, or credit card at the parking office. Seasonal launch passes can be purchased at the harbor master’s office. 2. Prepare your vessel before entering ramp area.
Check that all required safety equipment and the vessel’s registration card are on board. Make sure the trailer coupler is connected securely to the ball hitch and unplug the trailer lights. Check the condition of the battery, the motor, and the angle of the drive unit. Make sure the vessel’s drain plug is firmly in place. If you have a gasoline inboard, run your exhaust blower (for at least four minutes) prior to getting on the ramp so you don’t have to wait. Have at least three experienced people ready to launch the vessel — one to back the trailer into the water, one to help release it and one to hold the boat.
3. Move the vessel to the boat ramp, get people in position to hold and release boat.
Once your vessel is launched and secured to the courtesy dock for loading passengers, quickly move the towing vehicle off the ramp and out of the way.
Retrieving Your Vessel 1. Get your vehicle in the launch/retrieval line. When retrieving, do not pull your vessel into a launch lane until the towing vehicle is at the ramp. The line is formed by vehicles with trailers, not by vessels in the water. 2. Retrieve & Move Vessel to Staging Area Back the trailer into the water so that approximately two-thirds of the rollers or bunks are submerged. Move the vessel onto the trailer far enough to attach the winch line to the bow eye of the vessel. Finish pulling it onto the trailer by cranking tthe winch. Consider adding an additional bow safety chain to secure the bow eye to the trailer. Shut off the vessel’s engine, and raise the drive unit. Tow the vessel off the ramp and out of the way of others.
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
3. Secure & Prep Vessel for Travel in Staging Area
Secure the vessel to the trailer with the tie-down straps.
NEVER block a ramp with an unattended vessel or vehicle! Or you’ll be sorry! 15
Launch Fees Vessel Type
Motorized
Non-motorized
Per Launch
$10
$5
Annual Permit*
$100
$50
*Good for one vessel throughout calendar year.
Ramp Safety
Advice from a guy who’s seen it all: If you have an incident on the north ramp, chances are it’s Mike from Bay Barge Co. Dock Store who’ll be running out to help. With over 25 years of his business serving boaters and anglers he’s seen a lot of action on the boat ramp. Mike has a couple good pieces of advice. 1. Don’t take off the safety chain. Mike has seen more than one boat has slid off its trailer and onto the cement. “Getting the boat back on takes a whole crew — and it’s expensive. It’s usually a new boat owner or someone who’s borrowed a boat.” 2. Parents — keep kids away from the ramp area. “I’m constantly concerned about kids running around. Drivers can’t see ‘em because the bow masks what’s in front of them. And some drivers charge up the ramp really fast.” 3. Strategize. You can’t necessarily avoid the morning and afternoon ramp rushes, but you can strategize. Allow lots of time for waiting your turn, know how to launch/retrieve efficiently, etc.
Seward Boat Harbor - Discover Alaska’s Marine Adventure Capital
Situated at the head of Resurrection Bay and alive with activity, the Seward Boat Harbor is the perfect place to launch adventures -- on and off the water. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling marina, get the supplies and marine services you need, and find information and access to all the region's main attractions, including everything from fishing, kayaking and day cruises to glacier walks, flightseeing and more.
Moorage & Dockage | Used Oil Disposal | Anti-Freeze Recycling | Potable Water | Electricity for Vessels | Towing/Relocating Vessels 2 Boat Launch Ramps | 50 and 330-Ton Travelift Services | Public Showers | 4 Fish Cleaning Stations | Waste Disposal Pumps Seward Boat Harbor PO Box 167 Seward, Alaska 99664 Phone: (907) 224-3138 Fax: (907) 224-7187 Office Hours are 8am to 5pm 7 days a week. Channel 17 is monitored 8am to 10pm daily. For the latest in weather conditions visit - www.cityofseward.net/harbor/weather.html
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Tide Chart Resurrection Bay, Alaska JUL 2016
HIGH TIDES LOW TIDES
HIGH TIDES LOW TIDES
AM FT PM FT
AUG 2016
AM FT
PM
FT
AM FT PM FT
11:56 8.1 11:37 11.7
5:36 -0.7 5:21 2.3
1
M
0:19 11.6 1:35
9.3
7:08 -1.6 7:04 2.1
.... 12:55 8.7
6:30 -1.6 6:18 2.2
2
T
1:08 11.8 2:16
9.7
7:51 -1.9 7:51 1.7
AM FT
PM
FT
1
F
2
S
3
S
0:28 12.1 1:46
9.2
7:19 -2.3 7:11 2.0
3
W
1:53 11.8 2:54 10.0
8:30 -1.9 8:34 1.4
4
M
1:17 12.3 2:33
9.6
8:05 -2.7 8:01 1.8
4
T
2:34 11.5 3:29 10.1
9:07 -1.7 9:15 1.3
5
T
2:03 12.2 3:16
9.8
8:48 -2.7 8:48 1.7
5
F
3:14 11.1 4:03 10.1
9:42 -1.2 9:55 1.4
6
W
2:48 11.9 3:58
9.8
9:29 -2.5 9:34 1.8
6
S
3:53 10.4 4:37
9.9
10:15 -0.5 10:35 1.6
7
T
3:31 11.3 4:39
9.7
10:09 -1.9 10:20 2.0
7
S
4:32 9.6
5:11
9.7
10:49 0.3 11:17 1.9
8
F
4:15 10.4 5:20
9.5
10:48 -1.2 11:07 2.2
8
M
5:13 8.7
5:47
9.4
11:23 1.2
9
S
4:59 9.5
6:02
9.3
11:27 -0.3 11:57 2.5
9
T
6:00 7.8
6:28
9.1
0:04 2.2 11:59 2.2
10 S
5:46 8.5
6:45
9.0
.... 12:07 0.7
10 W
6:58 7.1
7:16
8.9
0:59 2.5 12:41 3.1
11 M
6:41 7.6
7:32
8.9
0:53 2.7 12:50 1.7
11 T
8:14 6.5
8:14
8.8
2:06 2.7 1:35 3.8
12 T
7:47 6.8
8:23
8.8
1:59 2.8 1:38 2.5
12 F
9:46 6.4
9:20
8.9
3:25 2.5 2:46 4.2
13 W
9:07 6.4
9:17
8.9
3:12 2.6 2:35 3.2
13 S
11:05 6.8 10:23 9.3
4:37 1.9 4:04 4.3
14 T
10:29 6.5 10:10 9.2
4:22 2.1 3:39 3.6
14 S
11:59 7.4 11:18 9.8
5:32 1.2 5:09 3.9
15 F
11:36 6.8 11:00 9.6
5:19 1.4 4:41 3.7
15 M
.... 12:41 8.1
6:16 0.3 6:01 3.3
16 S
12:27 7.4 11:45 10.1
6:05 0.6 5:36 3.6
16 T
0:05 10.5 1:17
8.8
6:54 -0.4 6:46 2.6
17 S
....
....
....
....
....
1:09
7.9
6:45 -0.1 6:23 3.3
17 W
0:49 11.1 1:51
9.5
7:31 -1.1 7:28 1.8
18 M
0:27 10.6 1:46
8.4
7:22 -0.8 7:06 2.9
18 T
1:31 11.5 2:25 10.2
8:06 -1.5 8:09 1.1
19 T
1:07 11.0 2:22
8.9
7:57 -1.3 7:47 2.5
19 F
2:12 11.8 2:59 10.7
8:42 -1.7 8:52 0.6
20 W
1:47 11.3 2:56
9.3
8:32 -1.7 8:27 2.1
20 S
2:55 11.7 3:36 11.1
9:19 -1.5 9:36 0.2
21 T
2:26 11.4 3:32
9.7
9:08 -1.9 9:09 1.8
21 S
3:39 11.3 4:14 11.3
9:57 -1.0 10:23 0.1
22 F
3:07 11.3 4:09
9.9
9:45 -1.8 9:53 1.5
22 M
4:27 10.6 4:56 11.2
10:37 -0.2 11:14 0. 2
23 S
3:50 10.9 4:48 10.1
10:23 -1.4 10:40 1.4
23 T
5:19 9.6
5:43 11.0
11:21 0.8
24 S
4:37 10.2 5:30 10.2
11:03 -0.8 11:33 1.4
24 W
6:21 8.6
6:37 10.7
0:12 0.5 12:11 1.9
25 M
9:29 9.4
6:17 10.3
11:46 -0.1
....
25 T
7:37 7.8
7:42 10.3
1:20 0.9 1:12 2.9
26 T
6:30 8.4
7:10 10.3
0:33 1.4 12:36 1.1
26 F
9:10 7.5
8:57 10.1
2:39 1.0 2:29 3.6
27 W
7:46 7.6
8:11 10.3
1:42 1.4 1:33 2.0
27 S
10:38 7.8 10:13 10.3
4:02 0.8 3:56 3.7
28 T
9:14 7.3
9:17 10.5
3:00 1.0 2:43 2.8
28 S
11:45 8.4 11:19 10.6
5:11 0.2 5:11 3.2
29 F
10:42 7.5 10:23 10.8
4:18 0.4 3:59 3.1
29 M
.... 12:35 9.1
6:06 -0.3 6:10 2.6
30 S
11:53 8.0 11:25 11.2
5:25 -0.3 5:10 3.0
30 T
0:14 11.0 1:16
9.7
6:52 -0.7 6:57 1.9
.... 12:49 8.7
6:20 -1.1 6:12 2.6
31 W
1:01 11.2 1:51 10.1
7:31 -0.9 7:39 1.3
31 S
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
17
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T
Rubber Duck Race
he Seward Rotary Club has a reputation as a club whose members like to have fun. So you’d better believe they know how to throw a FUNdraiser! On Sunday, August 21st, just after the Seward Silver Salmon Derby ends at high noon, club members will host the fifth annual Rubber Duck Race. Members throw 1,000 bright yellow rubber ducks into the Lowell Creek Waterfall. Which duck can survive the treacherous waterfall, navigate the rapids, duck under the bridge, and float down to the tidewater finish line first?! Every year, hundreds of viewers line the road and beachfront watching with anticipation. Rotarians await with nets at the ready. (Once in a while a Rotarian will join the ducks in the drink, but they generally don’t last as long in the water and bob right back up on shore.) Why? It’s bright. It’s beautiful. And the owners of the first seven ducks win cash prizes!
$1500 $500 $250 $100
Will
1st place 2nd place 3rd place 4th-7th places
YOU be a Lucky Duck?!
Buy as many ducks to race as you would like for just $10 each. Tickets can be purchased at Seward Chamber of Commerce, Seward Silver Salmon Derby Booth, Sailing Inc., Urbachs or calling 907-224-5495 (we deliver!); we also have a table at Safeway at intermittent times. On event day, tickets will be sold at the event site — the waterfall — until 11:45am. Every one you buy helps benefit Coats For Kids, Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner Baskets, and Youth Exchange Programs. Winners will be announced at the Silver Salmon Derby Awards Community Barbecue at the Branson pavilion, held later the same day. Whether or not you win, you’ll help everybody feel just ducky! The Seward Rotary Club has served the community of Seward for more than 30 years. For more information about the Seward Rotary Club, call (907) 224-3160 or look for the Seward Rotary Club on Facebook and send a message. See you at the Duck Race!
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2015 Winners & Prize List PLACE 1st
PRIZE $10,000 & weight of fish in coffee 2nd $5,000 & weight of fish in coffee 3rd $2,500 & weight of fish in coffee 4th $1,000 5th $750 6th $500 7th $500 8th $500 9th $500 10th ASLC Family Pass 11th Hotel Seward 12th Hotel Seward 13th Breeze Inn 14th Ducks Unlimited Gear 15th Ducks Unlimited Gear 16th Hotel Seward 17th Sunny Cove Kayak Trip 18th Hotel Seward 19th $100 20th $100 21st $100 22nd Cabela’s Gift $100 23rd Cabela’s Gift $100 24th Cabela’s Gift $100 25th Cabela’s Gift $100 26th Cabela’s Gift $100 27th Cabela’s Gear 28th Breeze Restaurant, Cabela’s 29th Breeze Restaurant, Cabela’s 30th Cabela’s , Ducks Unlmt 49th Heaviest $1,000 100th Heaviest $100 Urbach’s Card Heaviest Women’s $100 Urbach’s Card Heaviest From Coast $200 1st Fish Caught $100 Last Fish Caught Discovery Jacket Heaviest-Sailboat $100
WINNER Jerry Bixby
WEIGHT 16.19
Kelly Landry
14.92
Raymond Ansel
14.39
Bob Stinson Edward Robbins Steve Szymanski Darrell Lamping Glenda Frost Brian Van Baggen Lindsay Yassick Roger Day Ronald Eglody Howard Lazar Doug Nightingale Lucas Brockman Edward Robbins Theda Cagle Fred Asche Gene Palmer Bonnie Tatum Rick Main Michael Chya Lorretta Bixby Trudy??? Gordon Gianni Troy Nibert Christy Garrett Eric Spade Nicole Fritz Gary Fritz Loretta Bixby Deidra Lamping Kelly Landry Wes Oetinger Loretta Bixby Wallace Charles Stephan Normand
14.15 14.00 13.90 13.71 13.55 13.54 13.49 13.42 13.36 13.36 13.33 13.31 13.28 13.26 13.22 13.10 13.09 13.08 13.00 12.99 12.86 12.84 12.84 12.82 12.76 12.68 12.68 12.04 11.03 14.92 8.99 3,8 11.64 11.97
PLACE
PRIZE
WINNER
C U M U L AT I V E
Seward Adult $500 Non-Seward Adult $500 YO U T H
1st 2nd 3rd
Richard Schmidt Tony Shandy
$1,000 $250 $250 $250 $250 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100
402.31 438.96
P R I Z E S
$250 Bay Barge Lucas Brockman $100 Riley Johnson $50 Tyler Nibert M Y S T E R Y
★ 1 2 3 4 One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Eleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen Fifteen Sixteen Seventeen Eighteen Nineteen Twenty Twenty-one Twenty-two Twenty-three Twenty-four Twenty-five Twenty-six Twenty-seven Twenty-eight Twenty-nine Thirty
WEIGHT
W E I G H T
13.31 12.58 11.86
F I S H
Jerry Soukup Tray Nightengale Sam Wottlin Tom Merculief Tony Flanders Jim Cottrell Darrell Lamping Ryan Armstrong Tony Shandy Joseph Schmidt Richard Schmidt Frank Armstrong Earl Cagle Phil Collins Robert Nibert Michael Hanson Michael N. Ooka Carroll Eby Michael Devany Lou Rodriquez Rachel Baldwin Daneil Williams Kaylee Ford Mike Purcell Dennis Barlow Virginia Shandy Bill Alloway Gage Brody Robert Wilson Stanley Watsjold Bobby Wrenn Ben Van Hoose Paul Paquette Jed Shandy Colleen Ferrin
7.84 10.68 7.57 9.94 9.41 9.25 9.24 9.06 8.76 8.57 8.44 8.33 8.27 8.13 8.00 7.77 7.76 7.49 7.31 7.11 6.97 6.70 6.08 5.85 5.70 5.44 5.23 4.98 4.45 3.88 8.22 6.66 5.75 7.67 4.19
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“We Couldn’t Do The Derby Without Them!” — Cindy Clock, Executive Director Seward Chamber of Commerc
I
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
t takes a small army of volunteers to run the Derby, along with community contributions of every sort from ice to iced cinnamon rolls.
Inside the Derby House, volunteers work alongside Chamber staff to sell tickets, educate anglers on the rules, keep the leaderboard current and serve as ambassadors for the event. At the official weigh-in station, volunteers do things like weigh entries on an ADF&G calibrated scale, confirm species as Coho, and call in derby judges as needed. Volunteer judges from the Alaska Sealife Center are on call during the event to settle disputes and closely examine all entries over 15 pounds (inside and out). Several local businesses and organizations support the derby as well. Icicle Seafoods brings ice to keep entries — including displayed fish — on ice. The Seward Harbor crew keeps the area clean. Seward Parking Authority gives free parking passes to volunteers. And Lighthouse Cafe delivers fresh, hot cinnamon rolls, breakfast burritos and whatnot for the morning crew...and sandwiches and chips for afternoon volunteers. Many organizations donate manpower. Kenai Fjords Tours/Windsong Lodge, Alaska Sealife Center, Seward Rotary and other organizations often sign up to cover a whole day with their employees or members. All volunteers get a t-shirt, an invitation to the “volunteer appreciation party” on Fox Island, hosted by Kenai Fjords Tours, and lots of gratitude!
Want to Volunteer? Call the Chamber or stop by the Derby House and sign up for a 4-hour shift between 6a and 10p. Organizations can sign up in advance to cover a whole day with their employees or members.
22
Y
Have Your Prize & Eat It, Too!
ou may be tempted to just fill your freezer or mount your monster without buying a derby ticket or turning in your fish. But consider this: you can have your prize and eat it, too! After your fish is entered for a potential prize, you can buy it back for just $5. That means you, the Derby and salmon restoration projects all win.
Derby Fish Give Life Fish are either bought back by the entrant or sold to a local fish processing company. Either way, the revenue generated is used for fish restoration in the area and other local projects. Seward’s fishing resource is protected and enhanced for years to come. Nothing goes to waste. Derby Fish are Extra Delicious Nothing tastes better than a fish that has taken your line, entered you for a prize and supported good causes to boot. After you’ve bought your fish back, here are a couple of local options to make the best use of it. • Let Apollo Restaurant Cook it For You. (229 Fourth Ave. 907-224-3092): The taste of success can be yours, professionally cooked and plated by a local chef. Apollo is known for cooking your “catch of the day.” Call ahead to make plans, and prepare to sink your teeth into the freshest salmon dinner you’ve ever had. • Grill it up at your campsite. What more can we say? Yum! • Let a Local Expert Process, Pack and/or Ship Your Catch... Captain Jack’s Seafood Locker (303 South Harbor St. 907-224- 8082) J-Dock Seafood Company (408 Fourth Ave. 907-224-7272) T-N-T Custom Smoke & Processing (11767 Seward Hwy. 224-5545)
Michael DeYoung Photography
23
Afraid of Getting Green Around the Gills? F
or people who are prone to motion sickness, taking a few precautionary measures and having relief at the ready will likely save the day. Everyone is different and there are lots of different theories about what works out there, so here’s a whole collection of tips for you!
PREVENTION
Drive the boat. Or pretend to drive. If you’re the one driving the boat, you probably won’t experience “sensory mismatch” — where you’re sensing one thing with your eyes and a different thing happening in your inner ear (balance system). Don’t boat on an empty stomach. A small, low-fat meal will probably be best; eat snacks every couple hours. Fat, heavy, greasy meals along with strong food odors are more likely to trigger nausea. Suck on ginger candy. Drink ginger ale. Do not drink alcohol before or during motion. (Alcohol also exacerbates side-affects of motion sickness pills.) Face the direction of travel. Don’t read while the boat’s in motion. Keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or on a fixed point. Breathe fresh air. Don’t talk about sea sickness; the suggestion of seasickness itself can trigger it. Avoid others who are seasick. Take an over-the-counter drug such as Dramamine, Meclizine (Bonine) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Wear a scopolamine patch (by prescription only): Talk to your doctor about getting a Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock motion sickness patch, to be worn starting at least eight hours before. It can be effective for up to three days. Be sure to talk about side effects with your doctor. Wear a Sea-Band. This is an easy-to-wear, acupressure-inspired wristband. The integrated plastic bead presses against the Nei-Kuan pressure point located about 1.5 inches above the crease of the wrist, palm side, between the two tendons there. Another more expensive product, the ReliefBand, sends a small electrical current through the same spot.
RELIEF
24
Bite into a slice of fresh ginger. Drink ginger ale. Eat a green apple. Drink a high-protein liquid drink; protein works even better than crackers or high-carb drinks. Drive the boat. Fish from shore instead.
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Fishless Fun
Seward has tons to see, do and experience without ever touching a fish. But you could touch an anemone, see a whale, hike a mountain, enjoy a spa day and oh so much more!
Indoor Attractions
The Alaska Sealife Center is our most famous indoor attraction. It’s packed to the gills with amazing creatures and information about the area’s sea scape. Looking for a souvenir? There are many shops both near the small boat harbor and downtown (take a free shuttle and get there in 5 minutes...or walk the Historic Iditarod trail along the beach). Downtown is also home to the museum, art galleries, day spas and more.
Alaska Sealife Center Shopping Art Galleries Museum Library Dining & Coffee Houses Day Spas Fitness center Movie Theater Music & Nightlife Michael DeYoung Photography
Guided Outdoor Activities
Get into the heart of the famous wildlife and glaciers of Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park on a half-, full-day or overnight cruise, sailing charter, sea kayak tour or scenic flight. Or you could pan for gold, hike up to a glacier, fly through the forest on a zipline and more. Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
26
Day & Overnight Cruises Flightseeing Dog sledding Glacier Hiking Gold Panning Horseback riding Sailing Sea Kayaking Zipline Tours
Explore on Your Own
Seward’s majestic surroundings await your exploration by foot, bike, paddle, boat or however you roll. Walk the beautiful beach along the Historic Iditarod Trail interpretive path, take the self-guided downtown mural tour, or hike up into the mountains or out along the coast to Tonsina Point. Or rent a bike, kayak or paddleboard. Be sure to arm yourself with current information from the Seward Visitor Center first, then go have fun! Sea Kayak Bike Hike Paddleboard Water taxi (to hiking, kayaking or scenic viewing locales) Self-guided Walks: Downtown Murals, Historic Iditarod Trail, Exit Glacier Trail.
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
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279,546!
That’s the number of coho smolt released into the bay in 2015.
T
hat’s nearly TRIPLE the amount released the previous year (97,675)... which means we’re likely to see 2.86 times as many fish returning to the bay for the 2016 Derby. This could be the largest release in the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s 47-year history of stocking the bay with coho. The rearing program cycle begins just outside of Seward at Bear Lake. Here ADF&G officials collect fertilized eggs from cohos that are captured at a facility operated by the Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association. (CIAA also operates Trail Lakes Hatchery in Moose Pass which focuses on sockeye salmon rearing.)
William Jack Hernandez Hatchery Stock
The eggs are transported to the William Jack Hernandez Hatchery in Anchorage. In about six months, as the fry become smolt and outgrow their tanks, they’re pumped into much larger tanks (46 feet across, 6 feet deep). They live there for about a year and a half. Once their weight reaches 20 to 24 grams, ADF&G officials transport the smolt to their final destination aboard one of their fish trucks. The program calls for more than 200,000 silver salmon smolt to be released into Resurrection Bay each year. The three May 2015 releases exceeded the annual goal, sending 279,546 of the 5-inch wonders out to sea. The coho spend just one year in the ocean dodging predators, practicing their aerial stunts and beefing up on herring, squid and such. “It’s amazing how much growing cohos do in one year,” said Andrea Tesch, the manager at William Jack Hernandez Hatchery. Adults cohos weigh 8 to 12 pounds and are 24 to 30 inches long, but past Derby winners have landed 15- to 22-pounders!
28
Does Two-time Derby Winner
Jerry Bixby
? t e r c e S a e Hav When asked how it feels it be one of only two two-time Derby champion in the history of the Seward Silver Salmon Derby, Bixby responds,
“Well, now I don’t have to listen to my brother anymore!” Bixby shares the title with his bother Bill Bixby, one of his longtime fishing pals. Jerry’s wife Loretta is also a champ, having won the 1983 Derby and the 2015 prize for first fish caught. Do the Bixbys have a secret? A magic formula? A special strategy? “I’d tell you, but then I’d have to shoot you,” Bixby jokes. “But to be honest, it’s really more about perseverance, having your line in the water, and well, blind luck.” Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
Bixby and Loretta have fished virtually all day, every day of every derby for the last 36 years. When he was working on the Slope, he may have missed a day or two but would try to time his vacation around the Derby. “As soon as it’s light enough to see, we’re gone,” says Bixby. “I think we just have our lines in the water more than others.”
Willard Dunham weighed Loretta Bixby’s 3.80 lb Silver for $100 prize for First Fish.
All that time on the water means more chances and more time to experiment. Flashers, herring, mini squid...hit! With just two hours left in last year’s derby, it was a pink mini squid that attracted the 16.19-pound winner. With his prize money, Bixby took his grandkids on a two-week trip to Kona, Hawaii. Bixby says his only regret about last year’s win is that he didn’t pause to thank Derby staff. “They put on a very good service,” he says. “They work their rear ends off and don’t get near enough credit for what they do.” Bixby grew up on the water in Southeast Alaska. He now lives in Soldotna with the philosophy that “Fishing is all great, and catching is good, too.”
Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
29
Where, when & why fish from shore WHERE
While most anglers fish the derby on private and charter fishing boats that troll in the bay, many folks fish from shore with great success. There’s even a prize category for the heaviest shore-caught coho! Shoreline surf casting access is plentiful in Seward. The three main access sites are: 1 Just south of the small boat launch, 2 At the culverts of the Seward Lagoon outflow, and 3 At the mouth of Lowell Creek (the waterfall on the southern edge of town). Anglers also fish from the breakwater walls near the small boat harbor (but you must yield to boat traffic); from the beaches between the small boat launch to the Alaska Sea Life Center; along the breakwater wall on the road to Lowell Point; from the shingle beaches at Lowell Point; and from Nash Road, near the Fourth of July Creek area. There’s only one freshwater stream that is open to fishing for salmon, and that’s a special section of the Resurrection Creek drainage. All other freshwater streams and drainages are closed year round to salmon fishing. Be sure to check the regulation booklet before heading out to fish.
WHEN
Most surf casters start fishing 2-3 hours before the high tide and fish through the high tide.
WHY
It’s fun for the whole family! Bring your lawn chairs, have a picnic, and let the non-fishers in your family beachcomb, roast marshmallows around the fire or otherwise entertain themselves. Hopefully you wrestling in all those leaping, jumping, crazy salmon on the end of your line will be the main attraction!
30
Tips, Tactics & Tackle for fishing on the Bay
The greatest challenge in catching silvers is finding them. Once you’re into fish, you’re into a good time because they’re not shy about striking whatever you throw at them. Here are a few tried and true tactics and suggested tackle to do the trick.
Trolling. Trolling herring on dual single hooks is popular, with a trolling sinker, or a
diving rig such as a “pink lady” to reach the desired depth. To find the desired depth, you could use a depth/fish finder or try different lines at different depths until you get into a school. Downriggers with very heavy weights can help you get to deeper fish. Many anglers also attach a flasher 12 - 36 inches above the lure or bait.
Jigging. This method imitates a crippled herring, which silvers will attack with a
vengeance. Because fish may be found just about anywhere in the water column, a good strategy is to jig or “bounce” the lure all the way to the bottom: pull it up a few feet and let it flutter downward; repeat till the lure hits bottom, then reverse the process as you bring it back up to the surface.
Mooching. Drifting bait with the tides or “mooching” has become popular and some claim its the most effective method. It’s also extra fun because, unlike trolling, you get to feel the strike. Try shrimp pattern flies or cut herring with a 6- to 10-oz. banana weight rigged above the leader. Fish as if you were jigging. This method works best to depths of 40 feet and can be very successful when silvers are abundant. Casting from Shore. A variety of spoons and spinners such as Vibrax and Pixees consistently produce good results. The perennial Alaskan favorite for silvers is the PixeeTM spoon, but almost any shiny lure or flashy fly will work.
Once you hook a fish with the lure, keep constant pressure on the fish; silvers are notorious for shaking loose right at the boat or shore, using the weight of the lure combined with slack line to throw the heavy lure free of their jaw.
Suggested Gear:
Medium- to Medium-heavyweight spinning rod (or trolling / drift rod) and a good, dependable reel. 25# line. (Use 30# line if you think you might get into kings.) Depth Finder (or Fish Finder)
Tackle Box Suggestions:
Luhr Jensen Crippled Herring jigs (6 ea., assorted sizes from 1/2 oz. to 3 oz., nickel / neon blue
back, chrome, cerise, nickel / neon green back) Luhr Jensen Krocodile Spoons (4 ea., assorted sizes, chrome, blue back, flame orange back) Kodiak Custom spinners (6 ea., assorted sizes and colors, plain and skirted) Blue Fox Pixee spoons (6 ea., assorted sizes and colors) Blue Fox Vibrax spinners (6 ea., assorted sizes and colors) Sampo ball bearing cross-lock swivels, 12 ea. Leader material, 20lb. fluorocarbon, 30lb. fluorocarbon, spool of each Owner octopus hooks, size 2/0, 3/0, 4/0 - 12 ea. “Hoochie” plastic squid lures, (24ea. assorted colors and sizes) Flashers / Herring Dodgers, (4 ea., chrome, prism, gold, red edge, assorted sizes) Pink Lady divers (3 ea.) Rubber core sinkers (6 ea., 3/4 oz., 1oz., 2oz.) Split shot (Water Gremlin #5, #3, 2pkg. ea.) Hook file / stone Seward Chamber of Commerce Stock
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No Guts, All Glory Cleaning Fish at Seward’s Fish Cleaning Stations
I
f and when you need to clean your fish (or just want to see the fillet knives a’ flying), head to one of the four public sport fish cleaning stations at the Seward Boat Harbor. The tables are located in front of Bay Barge Dock Store near the NE Launch Ramp, at the head of J Dock and B Dock, and near the end of Q Dock by the entrance channel. Please adhere to the following policies:
Make sure your knives are sharp! Dull knives slow the cleaning process. Have fish in tubs or coolers, knives, and fish storage containers all readily at your disposal. Position yourself in line or near the next spot that looks ready to open. Keep it friendly — and keep your sense of humor. Afternoons can get crazy busy with every angler angling for a spot. Do not throw fish waste, unwanted bait, or bait packaging into Seward Boat Harbor waters. Use gut barges ONLY for fish guts and carcasses. (Do not use for garbage or anything else!) If it’s busy, do your final “special” trimming at home. Clean up your station when you’re done.
For fish you’re not entering in the derby, it’s best to clean them offshore and discard of the fish waste at sea. The Seward Harbor has demonstrated a genuine commitment to implementing best practices that help reduce pollution, improve water quality and protect the marine environment. All, while providing boaters with a safe and productive marina for business and recreation. The Chamber thanks the harbor, the Alaska Clean Harbors Advisory Committee, and YOU for working together on these efforts.
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Cookin’ Up A Winner
W
hether or not you’ve landed a prize, your catch is sure to be a winner on the table. After all,derby fish are extra delicious because you caught it! Be sure to clean, pack and/or freeze it properly to avoid freezer burn and make it last. When it’s time to enjoy your bounty, check out this recipe, compliments of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute...
ALASKA SALMON BURGERS WITH RHUBARB CHUTNEY SERVES 4 PREP TIME 30 minutes COOK TIME 35 minutes
INGREDIENTS
RHUBARB CHUTNEY:
1 lb. Alaska Grown rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups) 1 cup dried dark red cherries 1/2 large Alaska Grown red onion, peeled and diced (about 3/4 cup) 3/4 cup dried blueberries 1 clove garlic, minced 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes 1 cup light brown sugar, not packed 1/2 cup tart red cherry juice 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 Tablespoons honey
DIRECTIONS
SALMON BURGERS:
1 lb. wild Alaska salmon, boneless, skinless and divided 2 Tablespoons fresh minced cilantro 2 Tablespoons thinly sliced Alaska Grown green onion 1 clove garlic, minced Juice of half a lime 1 Tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Salt and Fresh ground black pepper, to taste Cooking spray 4 Favorite burger buns Garnishes, as desired: Alaska Grown red onion, Alaska Grown lettuce, pickles
RHUBARB CHUTNEY:
Combine rhubarb and all chutney ingredients except wine vinegar and honey in a large saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, over medium-low heat about 20 minutes. Stir in vinegar and honey. Continue to cook and stir over medium-low heat another 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Reserve half of chutney for burgers; refrigerate remainder for another use.
SALMON BURGERS:
Dice half of the salmon in 1/4-inch cubes; set aside in a medium bowl. Pulse the other half in a mini food processor until smooth; stir into the diced salmon. In a separate bowl, combine cilantro, green onion, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil and smoked paprika. Add cilantro mixture to salmon, stirring gently just to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Shape salmon mixture into 4 patties, about 3/4 inch thick; chill until ready to cook. Grill or sauté salmon patties (in a non-stick spray-coated pan) about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Place on buns and top with a dollop of Rhubarb Chutney and desired garnishes. Recipe by Chef Mandy Dixon, La Baleine Café, Homer, AK For more great salmon and other recipes, visit www.wildalaskaseafood.com.
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Official Guide Produced by Seward Chamber of Commerce Available at these locations thru August 21st (while supplies last!)
E-Edition available at www.seward.com
ANCHORAGE
EAGLE RIVER
Cabela’s 155 W 104th Ave.
Elmendorf/Ft. Rich Outdoor Rec Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson
Alaska Mining & Diving Supply 3222 Commercial Dr.
SOLDOTNA
Trailer Craft 222 W 92nd Ave. ACVB (Downtown) 524 W 4th Ave 4th Avenue Marketplace/Downtown 333 W Fourth Ave ABC Motorhome Rental 3875 Old International Airport Rd Sportsman’s Warehouse 8681 Old Seward Hwy. B & J’s Sporting Goods 113 W Northern Lights Blvd. Carrs/Safeway Huffman (Homes & Land Stand) Huffman Carrs/Safeway Abbott (Homes & Land Stand) Abbott Great Alaska Holidays Motor Home Rental 9800 Old Seward Hwy
Soldotna Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center 44790 Sterling Hwy. Sportsman’s Warehouse 44402 Sterling Hwy. Trustworthy Hardware & Fishing 44648 Sterling Hwy. KENAI PENINSULA Seward Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center 2001 Seward Hwy, Seward Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Center Mile 48.7, Sterling Hwy, Cooper Landing Kenai Chamber of Commerce & CVB 11471 Kenai Spur Hwy, Kenai Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor 201 Sterling Hwy, Homer
Project Manager: Yvette Galbraith, Alaska Marketing Consultants, Inc. Cover Photo: Michael DeYoung Photography © Graphic Design: Greger Wright, The Wright Perspective Copywriting: Katie Hickey, KT-Creative Printing: Alaska Dispatch News Commercial Printing Ad Sales: Seward Chamber of Commerce Kris Harris & Alaska Marketing Consultants, Inc. Distribution: Alaska Marketing Consultants, Inc. and Anchorage Brochure Distribution Company
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The Angel
Ericson
R
ick Ericson is many things. He’s retired FAA, a former charter fisherman, an AVTEC graduate, an avid fisherman, and the owner of Lighthouse Cafe. But every August for 9 days, he transforms into an angel for every shivering volunteer working the Derby booth. “I can see them in that cold shack over there,” explains Ericson, whose cafe is a few yards from Derby headquarters. “I take them pastries, breakfast burritos and such.” He’s done that and much more throughout the entire derby for many years. The Lighthouse Cafe is usually crazy busy at this time but he knows the derby helps bring the customers in and finds a way to give back. “It’s labor of love,” he says. “It’s a pleasure to serve the community and the ladies and guys in the booth. This is one way I can support them.” There may be no better way to communicate love than with freshly baked, melt-in-your-mouth pastries from the Lighthouse Cafe!
Ukanuzit UKANUZIT THRIFT STORE
HALIBUT & SALMON COMBOS
339 5th Ave Seward, Alaska 99664 907-224-5258 Facebook.com/UKANUZIT
Specializing in full day and ½ day charters Toll Free 888-586-8420 – sales@auroracharters.com http://www.auroracharters.com/ 35
O G S ’ T E L
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