Entering its sixteenth year running in 2000, the Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby could be considered the grand prize of Kenai Peninsula derbies. By far it is the most financially rewarding contest of the summer. The Homer Chamber of Commerce is the sponsor of this longest running derby and they are experts at generating a lot of prize money. The most unique thing about this fishing derby is you could be a big winner without even wetting your line or catching a single fish.
Lucky fishermen stand to gain the most from the experience.
The grand prize cash award is presented at the end of the season to the fisherman with the largest fish in the derby. Tagged fish are also swimming in these deep cold waters. Homer is well prepared for handling large volumes of saltwater fishermen. Their halibut charter fleet is extensive and very experienced at locating this highly prized delicacy. It is not uncommon for the larger boats to run 40 miles or more to prime fishing grounds when the action cannot be found closer to port.