California Halibut

	Scientific Name	Paralichthys Californicus
	Other Names	Monterey Halibut, Chicken Halibut, Southern Halibut.
	World Record	53lb - 4 oz

Description

The body of the California halibut is compressed. The head is small and the mouth large. The colour is dark brown to black on the eyed side and white on the blind side. Their numerous teeth, very large mouth and a high arch in the middle of the "top" side above the pectoral fin make them easily distinguishable from other flatfish

Habitat

As these fish are from the flat fish family their shape and design make for the majority of their life to be spent on the bottom. These fish can be found inshore and offshore.

Feeding Habits

California halibut feed almost exclusively upon anchovies and similar small fishes. At times they are observed jumping clear of the water as they make passes at anchovy schools near the surface

Age and Growth

Males mature first normally when they are 2 or 3 years of age, females do not mature until they are around 4 or 5. A 5 year old fish may be anywhere from 11 to 17 inches long. Spawning takes place in relatively shallow water during the months of April through July.

Tackle and Methods

Drifting for halibut is the most successful fishing method with anglers using live anchovies. Artificial lures work well at times although they are not always effective. California halibut are found over sandy bottoms.

 

Related Species

Listed below are similar related species that customers have searched.

	Cod		Halibut Pacific
	Halibut Atlantic		Pollock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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