No matter what Alaska seaport you're visiting, chances are you'll find a wide selection of halibut charters. We've hooked a number of 100-pounders this year, and best of all, the fish are in the shallows, which makes them easier to catch. Holley said there are few other sportfish that offer both fight, size and fine eating. A halibut can yield up to 60 to 70 percent of its weight as boneless, white fillets. Catch a couple of 50 to 80 pounders and you'll have the makings of some fine dining to last all the summer and most of the winter Halibut charter fishing is generally available statewide from May through September, but weekends book quickly, as do holidays, so, plan ahead to ensure your trip, especially if you plan to enter one of the many halibut derbies.
Some anglers enjoy halibut fishing so much they book a charter trip for several days.
Andy Meizerow out of Seward has a fast boat that can reach many of these areas in a couple of hours. You can drive to Whittier, Seward, Homer and Valdez, all top choices for a halibut fishing adventure. In addition to halibut, rockfish and lingcod fishing is also available in season. Before I forget, Southeast Alaska offers excellent halibut fishing. If your itinerary calls for a stop at one or more of Southeast's coastal cities, you'd be wise to book at least one trip.