Halibut
Charters

California’s Premier Flatfish Adventure

Target one of California’s most prized gamefish with Barbarossa Fishing’s specialized Halibut charters. These exciting adventures combine technical fishing skills with the thrill of battling California’s largest flatfish in the sandy shallows and deep channels of Monterey Bay.

Trip Details & Pricing

Duration: 3 or 7 hours
Price: $800 (3 hours) / $1,300 (7 hours)for up to 4 guests.

Add $50 for each guest over 4.

Capacity: Up to 6 guests maximum
Season: Year-round (Best May – October)
Departure Times: 6am, 10am, 4pm (3hr) | 6:30am (7hr)
Booking: 50% deposit required to secure your date

Target Species & Size Expectations

California Halibut

Size Range: 5-40+ pounds (occasionally larger)
Average: 10-20 pounds
Trophy Class: 25+ pounds
Fight Characteristics: Powerful initial runs followed by bulldogging resistance

California Halibut are the ultimate flatfish prize, combining impressive size with exceptional table quality. These ambush predators lie buried in sandy bottom waiting for prey, making them challenging and rewarding targets for skilled anglers.

What Makes Halibut Special

• Premium Table Fare: Sweet, firm white meat considered among California’s finest eating fish
• Challenging Fight: Surprising power and endurance for a flatfish
• Size Potential: Opportunity for trophy fish exceeding 30 pounds
• Technical Fishing: Requires skill and patience to consistently catch

Prime Halibut Habitat & Locations

Monterey Bay Sandy Flats

The extensive sand bottom areas of Monterey Bay provide perfect halibut habitat. These fish prefer sandy or muddy bottom where they can bury themselves while ambushing prey.

Key Areas:

• Soquel Hole: Underwater depression that attracts baitfish and predators
• Pleasure Point to Capitola: Sandy coastline areas holding feeding halibut
• Monterey Bay Center: Deep sandy areas accessed during longer trips
• Canyon Edges: Where sand meets deeper water and structure

Seasonal Movement Patterns

Captain Justin’s commercial fishing experience provides crucial knowledge of halibut seasonal movements:

Spring (March-May): Fish move into shallower waters as temperatures rise Summer (June-August): Peak season with fish in optimal feeding areas Fall (September-November): Continued excellent fishing as fish prepare for winter Winter (December-February): Fish move to slightly deeper water but remain catchable