Let’s Talk Alaska Halibut Fishing – The Myths, The Highlights & Rewards

I have had the experience of catching most all the fish species in the Pacific Northwest and in the waters of Alaska. Being in the sportfishing business for over 22 years and owning an Alaska fishing lodge, Halibut is one of the most fun and rewarding fish to catch in Alaska for our anglers.

Debunking the Myth: Is Halibut Fishing Boring?

Owning a Southeast Alaska fishing lodge, we are blessed to have the opportunity to go halibut fishing each day on our guided trips. One common myth from some anglers who have not fished with us before says halibut fishing is boring and it is like reeling up a piece of plywood from the deep depths offering little to no fight. When I hear that shortcoming, it inspires me to change their minds about Alaska halibut fishing all together, and in most cases I am successful in accomplishing that challenge.

Each morning after our limit of Salmon is caught, we head to our halibut spots which are usually close by.  If clients are looking for the average delicious eating sized Alaska Halibut weighing 20-45 pounds, we have several spots where the bottom is literally carpeted with those size of fish making for fast action fishing that everyone loves.  When halibut fishing for this size of fish, we usually will drop jigs tipped with herring or salmon scraps. When the anglers deploy their jigs to the bottom, I just smile knowing in most cases their jigs will get eaten before they even hit the bottom! When their jigs stop and the rod doubles over aggressively, it is so fun to hear everyone laughing and having fun while everyone is hooked up. One thing most angler’s do not know about halibut is that they have four independent muscle groups, which can flex independently. This is why they can be so tough to reel up off the bottom. Fishing with high end quality rods and reels helps make halibut fishing so fun. On our custom-built boats, we have custom machined rod holders, so if any angler gets tired after catching several halibut, they can put the rod in the holder and reel the halibut up with ease. This design also offers kids the chance to catch the fish of a lifetime.

Action-Packed Halibut Fishing Adventures

Halibut are truly predators. When our anglers want to catch that “Trophy Barn Door Halibut” we target them specifically on or near underwater rock piles. Trophy halibut weighing up to 300 pounds live pounds, live around these underwater mountains which create their own ecosystem. Many types of rockfish, non-pelagic and pelagic live around these structures due to the high concentration of baitfish. Halibut are very territorial of their rock piles and will come from the dark depths in search of their next meal. The preferred technique is to anchor near these structures and use enormous sized baits. Once the scent trail is established from the large baits and current of the tide, it will not take long knowing that a massive beast is close by and will inhale your bait. When your rod violently doubles over while in the rod holder, you are hooked up and the battle begins, and lifetime memories will be burnt in your mind forever!

The Ultimate Reward: Fun, Adventure, and Delicious Halibut

Alaska halibut fishing when approached right is one of the most fun, adrenaline packed adventures anglers will ever experience and further reward anglers with some of the best eating fish that everyone loves.  The joy of catching halibut is only rivaled by the satisfaction of enjoying some of the best-tasting fish Alaska has to offer. For further information watch the video and please subscribe to our YouTube page for more videos. We hope to see you in Alaska halibut fishing soon! For more tips, tricks, and behind-the-scenes action, check out our YouTube page. We can’t wait to welcome you to Alaska for the fishing experience of a lifetime.

Tight Lines,

Derek Anderson – Screamin’ Reels Lodge Craig, Alaska

FAQs

1. What makes Alaska halibut fishing unique?
   Alaska halibut fishing offers a combination of fast action, challenging battles, and incredible scenery. It’s perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
2. What size halibut can I expect to catch in Southeast Alaska?
   Our fishing spots are teeming with halibut ranging from 20–45 lbs for eating and up to 300 lbs for trophy catches.
3. Is halibut fishing kid-friendly?
   Yes! Our boats are equipped with custom rod holders, making it easy for kids to reel in the catch of a lifetime.
4. What’s the best time for halibut fishing in Southeast Alaska?
   The peak season is from May to September when halibut are most active in the waters near our lodge.
5. How do I book a trip to Screamin’ Reels Lodge?
   Visit our website or contact us directly to reserve your spot. We offer guided trips tailored to create unforgettable fishing experiences.