Main Bay

The feel

Main Bay sits in western Prince William Sound and holds one of the larger congregations of sockeye salmon in the Sound, which makes it a popular place to snag them. A hatchery stands at the head of the bay. It is the first sockeye smolt-producing hatchery in the world and has reared Coghill Lake stock since 1998.

Anglers typically snag from their boat in the area open to snagging. Returning adults are also caught in a cost recovery fishery in the bay that is locally called a gillnet rodeo.

What to expect

Water and access

Saltwater bay in Prince William Sound. The closest access is by boat from Whittier, 2-3 hours away.

Species and timing

Sockeye salmon, early June to mid July.

Methods and gear

Snagging from a boat in the area open to snagging.

License and rules

Sport fishing is prohibited from a vessel within 60 feet of the hatchery barrier seine, or from a vessel anywhere inside it. Snagging is legal year-round in Prince William Sound salt waters, except the Whittier Small Boat Harbor and the Cordova Terminal Harvest Area.

Crowds and best time

A popular place to snag sockeye.

Season and access

Sockeye run early June to mid July; access is by boat only from Whittier.

Mingo says

Go between early June and mid July, when the sockeye gather here. Check the current regulations before you leave Whittier, because the closed area around the barrier seine has been under review.

Before you go

• Line up a boat that departs Whittier for the 2-3 hour trip.
• Do not snag in the Whittier Small Boat Harbor.
• Keep your gear and boat clear of the hatchery barrier seine.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.