It is rimmed by glacial fjords and largely undisturbed upland habitat. The communities of Cordova, Tatitlek, Valdez, Whittier, and Chenega are located around the Sound. There are more than 1,100 coastal streams and a number of lakes that are used by salmon for spawning and rearing habitat. The Copper River, a large glacial system flowing from Alaskas interior, empties into the Pacific Ocean near Cordova. Six species of salmon inhabit the rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal waters of Prince William Sound.
Pink salmon is most abundant.
The Copper River is known for its sockeye and chinook salmon. Chum salmon occur in a number of areas, and coho are scattered throughout the Sound. Commercial salmon fishing for pink, sockeye, chum, coho, and chinook salmon has long been a mainstay of the Prince William Sound economy. Fish are harvested by both seine and gillnet gear. Salmon sport fisheries are important in accessible areas near Cordova, Valdez, and Whittier.