Alaska’s Halibut are plentiful and huge. The largest one caught tipped the scales at an astounding 455 pounds! To be honest, a good-sized Halibut, with its sweet, firm meat, runs between 20 and 50 lbs. These tasty ocean dwellers are fun to “jig” for. Even inexperienced anglers are pretty certain to bag their share. Charter boats and experienced captains will have you out to prime Halibut fishing spots within an hour where you’re guaranteed the time of your life wrestling with these feisty bottom feeders.
Full- and half-day charters are widely available from most major fishing areas. Bring your gear or rent equipment from your lodge, or one of the many fish and tackle shops. Some charters supply equipment. Be sure to check beforehand.
Where to Fish
There are several excellent locations to fish for Halibut.
- Near Anchorage
- Just a 2½-hour scenic drive south from Anchorage, Seward is the gateway to nearby Kenai Fjords National Park. Fish the deep waters of the North Gulf Coast, about an hour and a half by boat from Seward harbor.
- Less than two hours from Anchorage, the port city offers good halibut fishing in Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska. You can also fish for rockfish and, after July 1, lingcod.
- A 5-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Anchorage. “Alaska’s halibut capital” is the gateway to Kachemak Bay, one of the richest bays in the world. Homer is off the cruise circuit and appeals to more independent and adventure-minded visitors.
- In the Southeast
- Port Protection.Fish near Prince of Wales Island, at the edge of the Alexander Archipelago.
- A great spot to take a halibut charter if you’re cruising the Inside Passage, as it is included in many itineraries.
- The town is remote, but the Halibut isn’t. In 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be doing battle with the “big boys.”
- Elfin Cove.Tucked on the north shore of Chichagof Island, this off-the-grid spot has no roads, only boardwalks. Big Halibut may be caught in its many inlets close to shore.
- In the Southwest
- Dutch Harbor:This port in the Aleutian Islands is mostly known for commercial fishing, but there are enough recreational charters if it’s a 200 pounder you seek.
A Word from the Gone Fishing Lodge
The beauty part of Halibut fishing is that it’s not high maintenance. All you need is basic fish and tackle equipment and the drive to have some real angling fun in the wild and plentiful halibut holes of Alaska. A lot of anglers prefer to bring their gear, but many charters will not only supply the gear, but your Alaskan fishing license too. If you’re fishing on your own don’t forget to get that license. You can apply for one online 2 months in advance of your trip. You can also pick one up at any local outdoor gear shop, even at supermarkets. As always, check before you go.
Looking for Lodging?
Gone Fishing Lodge provides the best affordable accommodations and services for anglers. Looking for a place to stay? We are more than happy to point you in the right direction for the Halibut fishing experience of a lifetime.
Call or email today and make your plans.
Gone Fishing Lodge, 48672 Soldotna, AK 99669
Call: (877) 462-5752
E-mail: ralph@gonefishinlodge.com
E-mail: dick@gonefishinlodge.com
