Bottom Fishing

Pacific Halibut

Hippoglossus stenolepis

Avg. Weight

40.0 lbs

Avg. Length

32+ inches

World Record

459.0 lbs

Found In

39 Destinations

About Pacific Halibut

Pacific Halibut are the largest flatfish in the world and one of the most sought-after species on the Pacific coast. These massive fish can exceed 300 pounds in Alaskan waters, earning the nickname "barn doors." Like all flatfish, halibut start life with an eye on each side of the head — the left eye migrates to the right (top) side during development. The upper side is dark olive-brown to gray, providing perfect camouflage against the ocean floor, while the underside is white. Homer, Alaska proudly claims the title "Halibut Capital of the World."

Identification & Appearance

Extremely large, flat, diamond-shaped body. Dark olive-brown to gray on the eyed (right) side with mottled camouflage pattern. Pure white on the blind (left) side. Both eyes on the right side of the head. Large mouth with prominent teeth. Small, rough scales. Tail is concave (crescent-shaped). The body is surprisingly thick for a flatfish, especially in large specimens.

Male vs. Female

Females grow dramatically larger than males. Nearly all halibut over 100 lbs are female. Males rarely exceed 60 lbs. Females can live 40+ years while males typically live 25+ years. Both are dark on top and white on the bottom.

Size, Weight & Records

Average catch varies by location: 15-40 lbs in California/Oregon, 20-60 lbs in Washington, 30-100+ lbs in Alaska. "Chicken" halibut (under 20 lbs) are considered the best eating. Trophy halibut exceed 100 lbs. "Barn doors" over 200 lbs are caught annually in Alaska. The all-tackle world record is 459 lbs, caught near Dutch Harbor, Alaska in 1996.

Seasonal Availability

Peak Season Good Fair Off Season

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Popular Bait & Fishing Methods

Best Techniques

Drifting or anchoring over sandy-gravel bottom near underwater ledges and structure in 100-400 feet is standard. Large herring, octopus, or salmon belly strips on circle hooks (16/0-20/0) with 1-3 lb lead weights fished directly on the bottom is the classic setup. In Alaska, "spreader bar" rigs with two hooks are standard. Jig fishing with large metal jigs (1-2 lbs) is growing in popularity and often produces larger fish. Keep the bait on the bottom — halibut are ambush predators that rarely chase food upward.

Recommended Tackle

Heavy conventional rod (5'6"-6'6"), large level-wind reel (Penn Fathom, Shimano Torium), 80-130 lb braided line, heavy monofilament or wire leader, circle hooks (16/0-20/0), 1-3 lb lead sinkers. Electric reels are common in Alaska for fish in deep water.

Regulations & Bag Limits

Pacific halibut are managed by the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) and individual states. Seasons are strictly controlled with specific open dates that vary by region — some areas have only a few open days per month. Bag limits are typically 1-2 fish per day. Minimum size of 32 inches in most areas. Check IPHC and state regulations for current season dates.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current rules with your charter captain or state wildlife agency before fishing.

Washington · Washington Outer Coast

Whittier

Alaska · Kenai Peninsula

Winchester Bay

Oregon · Southern Oregon Coast

Wrangell

Alaska · Southeast Alaska

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Caribbean Red Snapper

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