Butt-Butt-Butt, The Best Spots for California Halibut
By Jim Hendricks / Sport Fishing Magazine
Title photo - California halibut might lack the respect of their neighbors to the north — Pacific halibut — but this species fights hard and eats good. Jim Hendricks
When it comes to halibut, Alaska grabs most of the attention. But another halibut fishery thrives in the lower 48, farther down the Pacific coast; it’s one that many traveling anglers overlook: California halibut.
Though this species doesn’t grow nearly as large as the Pacific halibut that swims in Alaska, the Golden State flatfish can be quite a rod bender. In addition, the California species (Paralichthys californicus) possesses more of an oval body shape than the Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis), which has a body more akin to an elongated diamond. The posterior of the California halibut’s tail fin also features a mild "W" shape.
The California species largely inhabits the ocean waters off the Golden State and northern Baja California and is rare in the Pacific Northwest. In contrast, Pacific halibut are only occasionally caught in waters off of California; they’re found most often off of Washington, British Columbia and Alaska.
The International Game Fish Association all-tackle record 67-pound-5-ounce California halibut came from Santa Rosa Island off the coast of Southern California. An even larger ’but — weighing 72 pounds, 8 ounces — was captured at California’s Santa Cruz Island by a spearfisherman.
Just like Pacific halibut in Alaska, the California version makes great tablefare. California halibut inhabit a wide range of depths along the coast and offshore islands—from the surf zone to 200 feet or more. These fish attack live baits and lures, and can stage powerful runs and head-shaking battles.
Peak seasons differ by region. In southern California, anglers focus on spring and fall. In the Channel Islands, June and July top the list. In San Francisco, June is the prime month.
Here are six of the top spots from south to north where you stand a good chance of catching California halibut, and most of them are within easy reach of boating anglers.