Alaska’s Legendary Bottom-Dweller
FISHING FOR
Halibut
in Ketchikan, Alaska
There’s nothing quite like the fight of a Pacific Halibut. These massive flatfish are prized for their size, flavor, and the deep-water challenge they bring and are a bucket-list catch for anglers from around the world. Pacific Halibut can weigh over 300 pounds, but most charter-caught halibut range between four and twenty pounds. Nicknamed "barn doors" for their sheer size and strength, halibut dwell on the ocean floor and put up a powerful fight all the way to the surface. Many of the larger halibut caught are breeding females, and releasing them safely helps support long-term population health. Practicing responsible harvest reflects our commitment to sustainable fishing for future generations.
PEAK FISHING SEASON
Mid-May – Mid-September
PEAK FISHING SEASON
Mid-May – Mid-September
HOW WE FISH FOR
Halibut
Fishing for halibut is all about depth, technique, and patience.
- Anchored Bottom Fishing: The most common method; we drop heavy baited hooks straight to the seafloor using circle hooks and chum to bring in the fish.
- Drift Fishing: A more mobile approach when halibut are scattered, we drift over productive areas with baited rigs.
- Bait: We typically use herring, salmon scraps, octopus, or other oily bait to attract halibut to the scent trail.
- Gear: We use stout rods, strong reels, and heavy weights to reach depths of 150 to 300 feet or more.
Our guides take care of setup, safety, and fish handling so you can focus on the thrill of the catch.
FAQ
When is the best time to fish for halibut in Ketchikan?
Halibut fishing is best from mid-May through mid-September, with consistent action during the summer months.
How big do halibut get?
Most halibut retained on charters weigh between 4 and 20 pounds. Typically the larger halibut caught are actually breeding females, and releasing them safely helps support long-term population health.
Can I keep the halibut I catch?
Yes; within Alaska’s regulations. Choose a processing and shipping service so your fresh halibut makes it home safely.
Is halibut fishing physically demanding?
Halibut can put up a fight, but with our gear and guidance, anglers of all experience levels can participate and land a catch to be proud of.
What’s the best bait for halibut?
We commonly use herring, salmon heads, octopus, and other oily bait to draw halibut to the hook.
See Ketchikan’s Other Species
