TideAhead

Saltwater Species Guide

Pacific Halibut

Hippoglossus stenolepis

A giant North Pacific flatfish prized from Alaska to the Pacific Northwest.

Also Known As:HalibutBarn door
Pacific halibut identification illustration
NOAA Fisheries / Jack Hornady · U.S. government educational illustration · Image Source

Species Quick Facts

Common Angling Water

42–55°F

Approximate productive range, not a biological limit.

Typical Catch

Many sport-caught fish are 15–60 pounds

Maximum Reported Size

More than 8 feet and 500 pounds

Best Baits & Lures

Best Baits
  • Herring
  • Salmon belly
  • Octopus
  • Squid
Best Lures
  • Large lead-head jigs
  • Metal jigs
  • Glow skirts
Habitat

Sand, gravel, and mixed bottom from bays and banks to deep continental-shelf water.

How To Catch Pacific Halibut

Drift or anchor a bait just off bottom along depth breaks. Let the fish load the rod before applying steady pressure, and plan safe landing gear for large fish.

TideAhead Destinations

Harbor Guides For Pacific Halibut

Species Sources

TideAhead summarizes stable identification, biology, habitat, and angling concepts. Use the primary sources below for deeper species context and live management information.