Pacific Halibut

Oceans & Range: North Pacific Ocean — from California north through the Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, and Bering Sea to Japan. The world's largest flatfish. Major sport fisheries exist in Alaska (Homer, Seward, Kodiak), British Columbia, and Washington State. Found on sandy and muddy bottom in 90–3,600 feet.

Preferred Water Temperature: 36°F–50°F. A cold-water species found in the depths of the North Pacific and Gulf of Alaska. Migrate into shallower water (90–300 feet) in summer to feed. Can be found in shallower coastal waters near bays and inlets in Alaska.

Size & Weight: Typical Alaskan sport catches run 20–80 lbs. Trophy "barn door" Halibut exceed 200 lbs. World record: 459 lbs from Dutch Harbor, Alaska. The largest bony flatfish in the world — females grow much larger than males. Outstanding table fish — the most prized eating fish in Alaska. Minimum size regulations apply.

Best Lures: Large circle jigs (4–16 oz) in white, chartreuse, and pink dropped to bottom are very effective. Large rubber octopus and squid skirts on heavy jig heads are excellent. Vertical jigging with large metal jigs at depth produces strikes. Circle hook rigs on spreader bars with bait and attractors are standard charter boat setups.

Best Baits: Fresh whole herring are the top bait throughout Alaska. Fresh whole salmon belly strips are excellent. Large whole squid work consistently. Octopus is a top bait in some areas — particularly effective around the Kodiak Island area. Heavy sinkers (16–32 oz) are needed to maintain bottom contact in current-swept Alaskan waters.