We believe in conserving our resources and to prove it we introduced the Whaler’s Cove Lodge Great Halibut Giveaway in 2011 and we carry on the tradition today with our Summer Long Halibut Tournament for the largest Halibut released! There are no additional fees to join this tournament!
Federal halibut regulations require that any halibut caught on a guided vessel between specific measurements must be released. This is an effort to leave the active breeding stock and retain only (the better eating up to 50lb average) halibut, while still allowing an angler to keep a trophy fish. NOAA announces the regulations annually each spring. “Guided Sport Halibut Fishing, Area 2C”
The choice is yours if you happen to hook up a monster (roughly 276 lbs). Keep it for bragging rights, or release it for a chance at a free return all-inclusive trips at Whaler’s Cove Lodge!
Join us! Hook up a Monster, let it go, and tell the tale!
2026 Prizes!
1st Prize – 4 FREE, 4-Day Fully Guided Trips
2nd Prize – 2 FREE, 3-Day Fully Guided Trips
3rd Prize – 2 for 1 – 3 Day Fully Guided Trips
Tournament brackets will be posted and updated at the Guest Services Desk throughout the summer.
Weekly largest halibut that are caught and released but are not large enough to win a bracket in the tournament, will receive a “Conservation Prize”.
Winners to be Announced at breakfast (Alaska time) on the last day of the Season, each year! No need to be present to win, we will call you and then mail you your prize!
Awards are Non-Transferable.