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Atlantic Halibut

Hippoglossus hippoglossus

Guide seasonSummer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Atlantic halibut is a slow-growing flatfish that uses different depths and bottom types through its life. For recreational catch kept for personal use, the minimum length is 84 cm, and every halibut over two metres must be released. Targeted fishing is regulated by area and season.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Hippoglossus hippoglossus
Guide season
Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Minimum sizes

ZoneMin. sizeEffective
Hele kysten (entire coast)84 cm2026-01-01

Closed seasons

Nord for 62°N (North of 62°N): 12-20 – 04-20

Closed season north of 62°N. South of 62°N, targeted halibut fishing is prohibited year-round.

Regions in this guide

LofotenVesterålenTromsøSenjaNordland

Fishing techniques

  • Deep-water trolling with large herring or mackerel as bait
  • Bottom fishing with live bait (saithe, herring) on edges and deep-water channels
  • Jigging with large rubber shads (20--30 cm) near the bottom

Recommended equipment

  • 50--80 lb boat rod (6--7 ft) with heavy-duty multiplier reel
  • Braided line 0.40--0.60 mm with wire trace or heavy fluorocarbon
  • Circle hooks 8/0--12/0 for catch-and-release

Fishing camps targeting atlantic halibut

88 camps in Norway list atlantic halibut as a target species.

Frequently asked questions

Which regions does the halibut guide cover?
The guide covers Lofoten, Vesterålen, Tromsø, Senja and Nordland. These are indicative regions, not a ranking or catch guarantee. Use local guidance and nautical charts.
When is the best season for halibut fishing?
This guide uses summer and autumn as indicative seasons. North of 62°N, targeted halibut fishing is prohibited from 20 December to 20 April; south of 62°N it is prohibited year-round. Availability outside closures varies by place, year and conditions.
Should I release large halibut?
Yes. For catch kept for personal use, halibut below 84 cm must be released, and every halibut over 200 cm must be released regardless of viability. The 7.2 kg threshold applies only to sale, not personal use. Use circle hooks and keep the fish in the water as much as possible when unhooking.

Source

Source

Official 84 cm personal-use minimum and 7.2 kg sale-only threshold. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Halibut closed season 20 December to 20 April north of 62°N; year-round prohibition south of 62°N. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Mandatory release of every halibut over 2 metres regardless of viability. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Institute of Marine Research species profile for Atlantic halibut (accessed 2026-05-07)

Season, technique and equipment descriptions are general guidance, not catch guarantees. Confirm local conditions and species rules before fishing.

Regulations and quota information sourced from the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries. Rules may change — always verify current rules at fiskeridir.no.