The Third Annual Chinook Challenge Was a Success

Seldovia’s third annual Chinook Challenge benefitting the Seldovia Volunteer Fire Department took place last Saturday. Anglers were invited to join the derby for a $100 entry fee and try their luck at catching a king salmon. Unlike the Human Powered Fishing Derby, this was a motorized derby and the target species was only king salmon.

21 anglers entered the derby and were treated to one of the best weather days seen on the bay this year. Boats spread out from Chrome Bay and Elizabeth Island to 4th of July Creek. Sitings of Humpback whales & mountain goats, and catches of red salmon, chum salmon and king salmon were just a few of the things lucky anglers were treated to.  A 30% catch ratio for king salmon was achieved.

From the talk heard on the VHF radio, it was a slow day for charters catching kings; we had hoped for more and bigger fish, but that’s fishing. In the end Joe Miller on the Veronica Mae took home the prize for the biggest fish. Of equal importance was the $1000.00 that the derby was able to donate to our local fire department. Chief Haller attended the ceremonies and graciously accepted the donation and thanked all of the anglers involved.

Mayor Keith Gain presided as the official weigh-in judge and his motto was heard loud and clear: “All judge’s rulings are final!”