FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Halibut, Kings, and Cod—Oh My! This Season’s Top Catches
As summer hits full stride at Waterfall Resort, the fishing action has been nothing short of spectacular. From jaw-dropping halibut to acrobatic kings and trophy lingcod, the 2025 season has delivered the kind of once-in-a-lifetime catches that keep anglers coming back year after year. Whether it’s the thrill of the fight or the pride of landing a personal best, these are the stories guests will be telling for seasons to come.
Halibut That Tip the Scales
It’s been a massive year for halibut fishing, and Noelle Wong set the bar sky-high with a true giant. Her catch, estimated well over 200 pounds, came aboard with guide Pete (#24) and instantly became one of the most talked-about fish of the season. Close behind, David Moore reeled in a 128.4-pound halibut with guide Dirks—a fish that earned both weight and respect on the dock. And while many trophy halibut were released, anglers like Joe Vinatieri and Jeffrey Mark each brought in estimated 150+ and 170-pounders, making this season one for the halibut record books.
Lingcod Lovers Rejoice
Lingcod fishing has also been on fire, with Brenda Wilbanks hauling in the season’s biggest, estimated at 55–60+ pounds with guide Silas. Not far behind, Jeremy Mills and Ron Mills (yes, it was a family affair) each landed lingcod in the 50–55+ lb range on trips with guide Evan. The ferocity and size of these fish made for unforgettable battles—and a few sore arms back at the lodge.
Red Snapper Close Calls
Lauren Stengrund currently holds the top red snapper of the summer with a 23-pounder landed with guide Nick W—well above average and absolutely photo-worthy. And while Bryson Mays just missed the 20-pound milestone with a 19.6-pound snapper, it was close enough to earn him a patch and a story he’ll never stop telling.
The Kings of July
While king salmon retention closed for nonresidents starting July 7, the early season saw some incredible Chinook catches. Candance Gillespie leads the king board with a 38.3-pounder landed with guide Silas. Other standout kings include Michael Peacock’s 34.6 lb fish with guide Caden and Lloyd Lancosky’s 34-pounder caught on the Fourth of July. Each one brought the kind of electric runs and surface acrobatics only a king salmon can provide.
More to Come
As we move into silver season, the action shows no signs of slowing down. Coho are pouring in and delivering fast-paced fun for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you’re here for the thrill, the competition, or simply the joy of fishing in wild Alaska, this season is already one to remember.
Want to see more big fish and daily leaderboards? Check out our Silver of the Day updates and tournament news here: https://hubs.li/Q03rTX_x0
Make sure you follow us on facebook and instagram to check out all our guests amazing catches as well as some behind the scene footage.
Let's go fishing!