Since Opening Day of halibut season in the Strait of Juan de Fuca I have fished out of Port Angeles 7 times and boated 18 halibut so far. For some unknown reason, it has not been crowded at all. Perhaps it’s the combined blackmouth/halibut season happening in Sekiu right now, perceived bad tides or the belief there’s no halibut in the area.
Currents have not been bad most of the time but have occasionally required heavier weights. On several days the current prediction has been off by about two hours. As an example, last week I expected the current to run about 1.5 knots but upon anchoring it was slack current. This is proof you just can’t fully rely on “current predictions.”
Here’s some tips to help you catch more halibut.
- Use smaller pieces of bait
- Anchor when possible
- Chum while anchored
- Use underwater lights
- Use a combination of lures
- Check bait every 30 minutes
- Bang the bottom with your lead every few minutes
- When current starts pulling your gear off bottom increase your weights.
- Be patient, don’t give up on your spot
When drifting, don’t drag bottom. Check baits more often. Drift on the level or down slope. When you get a bite make sure to give the halibut time to get the hook in it’s mouth.
Hopefully these tips help you catch more halibut. Be sure to check out my full product line of halibut fishing tackle at
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