Pacific Halibut

Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) are large flatfish that can be found from the Bering Sea in Alaska to northern California. According to the IPHC, Pacific halibut can reach a maximum length of nine feet and maximum weight of 500 pounds. The oldest recorded age is 55 years for both females and males. They reside along the continental shelf and are found in a broad range of depths (from inshore to 450 meters). Their large size and delectable meat make them a popular and prized target for both sport and commercial fisherman.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration(opens in new tab) (NOAA) Fisheries, the California Fish and Game Commission(opens in new tab), the Pacific Fishery Management Council(opens in new tab) (PFMC), the International Pacific Halibut Commission(opens in new tab) (IPHC), and the states of Oregon and Washington to manage the Pacific halibut fishery off the Pacific West Coast.

Pacific Halibut News

large flat fish underwater
Photo: Guy Becken/Alaska Department of Fish and Game

Marine Region (Region 7)
Regional Manager: Dr. Craig Shuman
Main Office: 20 Lower Ragsdale Drive, Suite 100, Monterey, CA  93940
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