Derek Little the big winner at 2026 Port Alberni Salmon Derby - Chemainus Valley Courier

Derek Little won the biggest prizes at the 2026 Port Alberni Salmon Derby after landing a 24.2-pound salmon off Bamfield on the final day. He said fishing had been tough and the team switched tactics at the right moment, alternating between hoochies and a Gibbs Delta Skinny G until the fish responded while it was rising from about 80 feet. Little also received a 17.10-pound salmon leaderboard cameo from his wife, Heather Little. In total, Derek Little earned $5,000 for biggest fish of the day and $10,000 for biggest fish of the derby for $15,000. The derby runs through Monday, Sept. 7, with winners announced during the closing ceremony at the Salmon Festival and at Tyee Landing.