Shane Blakely, captain for Homer’s Driftwood Charters, reeled in the big catch last Saturday, April 26, during the 30th annual Anchor Point King Salmon Calcutta and Tournament.

Not only did Blakely catch the prize salmon — which weighed in at 19.8 pounds — earning him first place in the derby and $1,334 in prize money, he also won multiple side bets and the Calcutta for bidding on his own boat, the Amara Rose. In total, Blakely took home a little over $4,000.

Richard Rogers, fishing on the Southern Charm 2, took second place with a fish weighing in at 19.25 pounds. His earnings totalled $644.

Jacob Michels, also fishing on the Southern Charm 2, snagged a king weighing 18.2 pounds and $368 for third place.

Joey Allred on The Catcher brought home the average fish, weighing 12.8 pounds, and $276.

Hunter Jaymes on Reel Stubborn won this year’s Youth Angler prize, which awards $200 to the registered angler aged 16 years or younger with the largest fish for the category.

46 anglers participated in this year’s derby.

As the Calcutta and tournament serve as a fundraiser for the Anchor Point Chamber of Commerce, cash prizes are split between the winners and the chamber. Chamber President Dawson Slaughter said Saturday that the funds brought in by the annual event “help sustain” the chamber and fund projects including replacement of the Anchor Point welcome and “Most Westerly Highway Point” signs. Crafted by local artist Dan Coe, the “Most Westerly” sign will be unveiled on May 17.

Learn more about the tournament and other chamber-sponsored events at anchorpointchamber.org/.

Shane Blakely, winner of the 30th annual Anchor Point King Salmon Tournament, holds up his prize fish in front of the Anchor Point Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in Anchor Point, Alaska. (Photo provided by Mcki Needham)