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Last weekend Pillar Point produced lots of halibut for the two to three dozen boats fishing the area. Everyone here drifts along, dragging their gear just on or above bottom. Anchoring just won’t work here because everyone else drifts. If I had my choice, I’d anchor and let the halibut come to me, but the prime drifting area would be a mess if just one halibut angler anchored. That said, be ready to drift through the prime area, reel up and power back to the top of the drift and start over.

Pillar Point fishes well on either an incoming or outgoing tide, the only difference being where you begin your drift. On an outgoing tide begin your drift farther east. During an incoming tide begin to the west and watch your drift and try to stay in the 320 to 420 foot depth range. Once you learn the drift you should be able to plan and successfully drift along in 320 to 360 feet.

Best baits include: Salmon bellies, herring and baby octopus.

Best lures include: 7.5 inch FAT Squids, 9-inch Z2 Squids, upside down double skirts, FAT Squid Lead Head Jigs.

Best methods: Spreader bars & Alaskan slider rigs.

Best Launch Ramp: Olson’s Resort.

Saturday, June 7th is your last chance at Washington State halibut, so be sure and get your share.

Good luck,

John