Species guide

California Halibut

Paralichthys californicus

Flat, camouflaged, and one of the best meals in the ocean

California halibut ambush bait from sandy bottom in bays and along open-coast flats. They are a steady, reliable option when the offshore bite is off, and they are perfect for guests who want consistent action plus outstanding table fare.

Season: Year-round; best April through August during the spawn
Best bite: Moving tide, especially the first hours of an outgoing
Typical size: 5–15 lb, with 20–30 lb 'barn doors' possible
Where we fish: Mission Bay flats, Imperial Beach, Point Loma sand, La Jolla drop-offs

How we catch them

Drifting live bait on a sliding sinker rig
Bouncing swimbaits and jerkbaits on sand
Slow-trolling live bait along contour breaks

Tackle we use

15–25 lb outfits
20 lb fluorocarbon leader
Live-bait hooks or 1/2–1 oz leadheads
Light rods for bite detection

Baits & lures

Live sardine
Live smelt
Grunion
Big Hammer and MC Swimbaits

Captain's tips

Drift, don't anchor — cover ground until you find the biters.
Give the fish a long count before setting the hook.
Always net a halibut; they thrash off the hook at the rail.

Table quality

World class. Delicate, sweet white fillets; excellent seared, baked, or as ceviche.

Regulations

22-inch minimum length; bag limits vary by area — confirm current CDFW rules.

Ready to target California Halibut?

Private charters aboard the Kate Elizabeth out of Seaforth Marina, Mission Bay.

(619) 431-3070