PORT ANGELES — A longtime Port Angeles tradition is making a comeback this Memorial Day weekend.
The Port Angeles Salmon Club is reviving its halibut derby for the first time in nearly a decade after years of disruptions tied to COVID-19 and fishing regulation changes.
Organizers say the two-day derby will feature a $15,000 prize fund, including a $5,000 grand prize, along with raffles and donated fishing gear prizes.
Club leaders say the event once drew hundreds of anglers and thousands of visitors to Port Angeles, and they hope to rebuild that economic and community impact.
Salmon Club member Bob Beausoleil says the derby has historically been one of the city’s premier events.
“Back in the days we had Derby Queens, we had parades, we took over Civic Field, all kinds of activities and we’re trying to get back to that level,” said Beausoleil.
The derby runs May 23rd and 24th over Memorial Day weekend. Organizers say anglers from across the region are already signing up.