LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

• Halibut, known for their impressive size and delicious flesh, are highly sought-after saltwater fish found in various bodies of water along the coasts of the United States. Anglers in the Northwest region, particularly in Oregon and Washington, have the opportunity to target these flatfish in both nearshore and offshore waters. Here are some notable locations for halibut fishing in these states:

• Oregon: Popular fishing spots for halibut in Oregon include the waters off the central coast near Newport, Depoe Bay, and Winchester Bay. The nearshore reefs and offshore areas offer excellent opportunities to catch halibut.

• Washington: Washington's coast is known for its productive halibut fisheries. Areas such as Neah Bay, La Push, and Westport are renowned for their abundance of halibut. Anglers can also find success in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and offshore waters.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Halibut are bottom-dwelling fish that inhabit sandy or muddy ocean floors. They are commonly found in depths ranging from 50 to several hundred feet. Halibut prefer areas with structure such as rocky outcrops, ledges, and underwater ridges. They are known to move and feed along drop-offs and in areas with strong currents.

PATTERNS

SPRING

• In the spring, halibut begin their migration closer to shore. They can be found in shallower waters, particularly near rocky areas and ledges. Fishing with bait such as herring, squid, or octopus can be effective during this time. Slowly drifting or anchoring near known halibut hotspots is a common technique.

SUMMER

• Summer is prime time for halibut fishing in the Northwest. Halibut move to offshore areas and can be found in deeper waters. Fishing depths can range from 100 to 300 feet or more. Drifting or anchoring over known halibut grounds and using a variety of bait, including whole fish or large chunks, can yield excellent results.

FALL

• Fall offers continued opportunities to target halibut before they begin their migration to deeper waters. Halibut can still be found in nearshore areas and along underwater structure. Fishing techniques remain similar to summer, with drifting or anchoring over known halibut grounds and using bait as the preferred method.

WINTER

• Winter is generally a slower time for halibut fishing in the Northwest. However, there are still opportunities to catch them in deeper offshore waters. Fishing depths may reach 500 feet or more, requiring specialized equipment. Slow jigging with heavy jigs or using bait on the ocean floor can be effective in enticing halibut during this season.

  
  

BAIT

• When targeting halibut, anglers commonly use bait to entice these voracious predators. Popular bait options include herring, squid, octopus, salmon heads, and other oily fish. Whole fish or large chunks are typically used to attract the attention of halibut, which have a keen sense of smell. Rigging bait on a circle hook or a sliding sinker rig is common practice.

  
  

• While halibut are primarily targeted with bait, some anglers also find success using artificial lures. Large jigs, usually weighing several ounces, can be effective when bounced or jigged near the ocean floor. Lures that mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish are popular choices. It's important to select lures that can withstand the strong currents and depths associated with halibut fishing.

  
  

Techniques

Bottom Fishing

• How: Halibut are bottom-dwelling fish that inhabit sandy or muddy areas near drop-offs, reefs, or underwater structures. Anchor your boat or drift along these areas and drop your bait or lure to the bottom. Use a slow and steady retrieve with occasional pauses to entice the halibut to strike. Halibut are known to be ambush predators, so keep your bait near the bottom where they are likely to be lurking.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty spinning rods or conventional rods with strong backbone. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth and powerful drag system. Line: 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 60-100lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon leaders. Hooks: Large circle hooks or J-hooks in appropriate sizes for halibut. Sinkers: Heavy lead sinkers to keep your bait on the bottom.

Jigging

• How: Jigging can be an effective technique for targeting halibut, especially when fishing in deeper waters. Use heavy metal jigs with a realistic appearance and action. Drop the jig to the desired depth and employ an erratic jigging motion to imitate a wounded baitfish. Halibut are known to strike aggressively during the upward movement.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy jigging rods with a fast action. Reels: High-speed spinning reels or conventional reels with a strong drag system. Line: 50-80lb test braided line. Leaders: 80-120lb test fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs: Heavy metal jigs in various colors and weights to match the depth and conditions.

Live Bait Fishing

• How: Halibut can also be targeted using live bait such as herring, anchovies, or squid. Rig your live bait on a sliding sinker rig or a Carolina rig, allowing it to swim naturally near the bottom. Use a slow retrieve or occasional jerks to attract the attention of halibut.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth and powerful drag system. Line: 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 60-100lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon leaders. Hooks: Large circle hooks or J-hooks in appropriate sizes for live bait.