Halibut are some of the most delicious tasting fish. According to Fishex.com it is one of America's favorites. Halibut fishing is most common along the Pacific Northwest coast, with the state of Alaska having some of the best spots available for halibut fishing. Visitors to Alaska can experience the joys of catching these beasts of the sea though the region's many charter companies.
Significance
The halibut is one of the largest fish in the sea. They have the potential to grow more than 8 feet long and can reach over 700 lbs. in weight. The largest halibut ever recorded in sport fishing competition weighed 459 lbs. and was captured in Unalaska Bay. A halibut weighing more than 100 lbs. is called a whale, barn door or soaker. Smaller halibut are known as chickens.
History
The commercial halibut fishing industry has existed in Alaska since 1830. Up until the 1970s, fishermen were allowed to catch halibut during a five-month window. Changes were later implemented to increase the catch numbers. Instead of a five-month season, fisherman were given a single 24- to 48-hour window to fish. The numbers did increase, but the quality of the catches suffered. Another side effect was the risks involved. Commercial fisherman went to extremes since they had such a small window of opportunity. Now halibut fishing is based on an individual quota system with a season that spans eight months.
Locations
Good halibut fishing spots are located as far north as Nome and as far south as the Alaskan panhandle. The Aleutian Islands also offer some great spots for halibut fishing as well as beautiful scenery. Halibut usually live in waters from 90 to 900 feet deep. They enjoy living near mud, sand and gravel banks under the water.
Dangers
Halibut fishing in Alaska is exciting but comes with certain dangers. A novice fisherman should really consider a guide or a charter before trying this sport. Halibut are flat fish and will put up a fight once they are hooked. They are known for making a deep dive once they are hooked. A large halibut, when it makes this deep dive has been known to pull an adult male hard against the edge of the vessel. The patterns of Alaska's weather also present dangers as they can change rapidly without warning. Fishing vessels are also in motion and can become quite slippery with splashes coming up over the side. One wrong step can easily cause a fall or send a person overboard.
Charters
Charter companies will supply the equipment and provide instruction on the basics of halibut fishing. For the absolute beginner, there are guides to talk participants through the process and rescue them from any potential dangers that they are not equipped to handle. Typical charters include basic equipment, rods and bait, safety gear, instruction, free filleting for the catches, a safe vessel and a licensed instructor.
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