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Halibut, Pacific (Hippoglossus stenolepis)

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Common name - Halibut, Pacific
Scientific name - Hippoglossus stenolepis
Rating
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Caught at sea Longline
Capture Area North Pacific  FAO 67
Stock Area Canada
Stock Detail Canadian Pacific, British Columbia
Summary
Stocks are managed sustainably by the International Pacific Halibut Commission who apply strict harvesting conditions. Longline fisheries for Pacific halibut in the waters of Alaska, Washington, Oregon and British Columbia have been certified by the MSC as environmentally sustainable. These are the best choice for the fishery.
Biology
Distributed throughout the North Pacific, Pacific halibut are found at a range of depths. Older fish are found in deeper waters in the winter and only move into shallower waters in the summer. Younger fish are found in shallower waters.Males can reach sizes of about 260cm and females of about 270cm, the maximum reported age is 42 years. Maturity is at about 5 years for males and 7 years for females. Pacific halibut spawn between November and January.
Stock Information
Stocks in the area are healthy and productive. The International Pacific Halibut Commission has responsibility for managing stocks and applies strict harvesting conditions. These include a minimum commercial size limit of 81.3cm; a boat weight limit; seasonal restrictions, and closed areas. Allocation of individual quotas have meant that the halibut fishery is commercially sustainable. The harvesting season runs from March to November.
Capture Information
Longlining is a less fuel intensive and more selective method of fishing.There is, however, a possible bycatch of shark and other non-target species including seabirds, ask for fish caught using 'seabird-friendly' methods. See Fishing Methods for details.
Alternatives
(Based on method of production, fish type, and consumer rating: only fish rated 3 and below are included.)
Read what the consumer pages of the Good Fish Guide say about this species.