Halibut Fishing Overview

Typical catch. The Pacific Halibut caught in the North Gulf coast can grow to more than 300 pounds. In Seward, there are numerous fish greater than 200 pounds brought in almost daily. On a typical day, we may catch at least two that are near or around 100 pounds. Some years we will see up to four over 200 pounds. The fish will fillet out to 50% of their gross weight in boneless meat. Most reputable charter captains will make sure that the quality of the end product is unbeatable.

Color on this flatfish is restricted to one side, with both eyes on the right side of the head. Usually dark brown or gray, marbled with paler shades, white on blind side. Recognized by the slightly forked tail, sturdy body and large, almost symmetrical mouth that is filled with large teeth. Length to 8 feet denotes a female, males rarely over 4.5 feet long. Average mature weight: up to several hundred pounds. (Trophy 110 Ibs minimum)

The catch and the cleaning. The fish are usually brought to the boat after a short but intense fight on stand up gear that has two-speed reels with 100# test spectra line. The fish is brought boat side, harpooned, stunned, bled and put into a cooled fishhold out of the sun. They are brought back to the dock shortly afterward where they are hung for a group photo, then professionally filleted by captain and crew. You can then choose one of the local nearby fish processing plants to vacuum seal and flash freeze the fillets for around $1.25 per pound.

The value and the fun. If you only manage to catch two small fish, of 30 pounds apiece, you will end up with 30 pounds of top quality halibut. Commercial quality halibut sells for around $15 per pound in the grocery stores. So, besides having a fun and exciting day on the water, you can also get a lot of value for your trip in tasty fish to eat for the rest of the year! Often while fishing for Halibut, you will also catch Lingcod, and various species of rockfish. Lots of charters offer combination trips to target salmon and/or lingcod and rockfish with the halibut. Expect to put in a hard day of fishing. It is fun, but can be quite a workout.

Seward Halibut Tournament. This year Seward will be hosting a halibut tournament with the largest fish winning the prize pool. The tournament will run throughout the month of June. Plan ahead and book now, so that you can compete against other fishermen for these fantastic prizes: 1st place, $5,000; 2nd place, $3,000; 3rd place, $2,000; and a free fishing trip will be awarded each day for the daily largest fish.