The thought of king salmon fishing usually conjures images of casting off the shore of a remote river, or trolling behind a boat surrounded by wilderness. But in Alaska, you don’t need to travel any farther than downtown Anchorage, the state’s largest metropolis, to catch a king. Just a few blocks from downtown, with high rises on the horizon, anglers cast a line from the shores of Ship Creek to catch a salmon.
Local outfitters rent gear and sell licenses to travelers. Even for those who don’t enjoy the sport, it’s fun to take a short walk from downtown Anchorage to watch the combat fishing.
Every summer, the city of Anchorage celebrates with the annual Slam’n Salm’n Festival. It’s hosted by The Bait Shack and benefits local nonprofit organizations. Anyone who enters the derby has a chance to win thousands of dollars, fishing trips, kayaks, rods, and reels. The grand prize even includes a gold nugget. Tickets, sold at derby headquarters at King’s Landing on Ship Creek, are free! So, what have you got to lose? Grab a line and head to downtown Anchorage to land the big one.
Slam’n Salm’n Festival
Anchorage, Alaska
www.downtownhopecenter.org/slamnsalmnderby
