An average sized halibut being weighed at the docks.

Searching out structure and hard bottom can produce big barndoor halibut.

Drifting, covers more ground and is one of the most popular ways to catch halibut.

15-30lb test line and a medium/light action rod matched with a conventional reel is the perfect choice to subdue this hard fighting gamefish.

THE CALIFORNIA HALIBUT

Paralichthys califonicus

• Average Weight: 6 lbs. - 30 lbs.

• Peak Weight: 60 lbs.

• IGFA Record: 53.3 lbs.

• California Record: 58.9 lbs

• Common Names: California Halibut, Chicken Halibut, Portsider, Bastard Halibut, Flatty, Barndoor, Flatfish

The California halibut is an immensely popular food and game fish among West Coast anglers. Ranging from Oregon to Baja, this hard-fighting flatfish is a favorite of inshore fishermen, although it is often caught in much deeper water. In recent years, California halibut have become more numerous (and larger!) in coastal waters, thanks in large part to a ban on inshore gillnetting in its namesake state, as well as an extensive hatchery program.  Although it doesn't grow as large as its cousin, the Pacific halibut, this bottom fish is a true game fish and a strong fighter that will provide pound for pound action.

THE HABITAT

California halibut are predators, ambush-feeders that blend in with the bottom and wait for an unsuspecting meal to wander within striking range. They often seek out mud, sand or shale bottoms near rocky areas and wrecks that harbor small baitfish and crustaceans. Sandy coves and sloping pebbly beaches that harbor an abundance of crustaceans and small baitfish will hold halibut. You can also find them hanging around the legs of drilling platforms, pier pilings and wrecks surrounded by a sand or mud bottom.  In southern california, halibut typically roam in depths of anywhere between 120-10ft.

When baitfish gather in large schools over open bottom, halibut can become very aggressive, sometimes chasing bait to the surface. In this case, terns and gulls can lead you to the action.
 

THE BAIT & LURES

Live sardines, anchovies, herring, tomcod and other small fish are killer baits for halibut. The above also work well when fished dead or in chunks. Squid is another excellent halibut bait, whether fished alive or freshly dead.  At times tentacles on a jig head can entice a flatty to bite.

Artificial lures also take their share of 'buts. Favorites include soft-plastic shad bodies, curly-tail jigs, paddle-tail grubs, and heavy metal "irons" bounced off the bottom.
 

THE TECHNIQUES

Drifting is the most popular way to take California halibut. The trick is to position the boat so that wind and current will carry it over the prime piece of bottom. Often, being a few feet off target can mean the difference between hooking up and getting skunked, so try to be methodical in your search. When a fish is caught, immediately mark the spot so you can make the same drift again, because halibut often congregate in large numbers.

During the drift, baits and lures should be hopped or bounced along the bottom. This requires a deft and sensitive touch, because you have to be ready to free-spool line as soon as you feel the fish grab your bait. You also have to be able to tell the difference between a fish picking up your bait and your rig bouncing over the rocks. When in doubt, free-spool line rather than risk missing a good fish.

If you locate a concentration of halibut, you can sometimes anchor in one spot and continue to catch fish. You can either let the baits sit on the bottom, "yo-yo" jig, or cast out and hop your baits and lures back to the boat. Or you can do both by keeping one rod in a holder while you cast with another.

Slow-trolling baits and jigs over the bottom is another good way to locate a halibut hot spot, and works well when light wind or current makes it difficult to drift.
 

THE TACKLE

California halibut are a "medium tackle" fish, requiring a minimum of 15 to 30lb. test equipment.  Most halibut fishermen use bait casting reels, which allow them to free-spool line as soon as they feel a fish pick up their bait. Rods should be in the 6 1/2- to 7-foot range, and feature a light, sensitive tip for detecting strikes and a stiff butt section for powering the fish away from the rocks. Low-stretch, thin-diameter "super braid" line is useful for fishing in deep water and detecting bites. It also helps to set the hook.

TERMINAL RIGGING
Live and natural baits are usually rigged on single 2/0-5/0 hooks and fished behind a ball or torpedo sinker to keep them bouncing along the bottom. Downriggers can also be employed in some areas, and allow the use of lighter gear.

NOTE: Circle hooks have proven very effective on halibut, as they usually catch in the jaw of the fish. This makes for a more sporting fight and an easier release. It also keeps the leader away from the fish's sharp teeth.

Jig head sizes vary depending on depth and current, but generally range from 2 to 6 oz.  Always pack a variety.

Because halibut have sharp teeth, leaders are recommended, but when the fish are acting line-shy, downsize in line or use fluorocarbon.