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Expert-Guided Halibut Fishing on Vancouver Island
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Vancouver Island
- $385 - $1,160 price range
- Updated Date: August 28, 2025
Summary
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Big Halibut Hauls
Clearing skies and deep sea jigging: the perfect combo for Sooke's waters!
Clearing skies signal prime time for deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise perfect conditions for deep sea adventures at the Crab Shack!
Clearing skies set the stage for epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies set the stage for epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies and deep sea jigging: the perfect combo for Sooke's waters!
Clearing skies signal prime time for deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise perfect conditions for deep sea adventures at the Crab Shack!
Clearing skies set the stage for epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies set the stage for epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies and deep sea jigging: the perfect combo for Sooke's waters!
Clearing skies signal prime time for deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise epic deep sea action in Sooke!
Clearing skies promise perfect conditions for deep sea adventures at the Crab Shack!
Reel in Giants: Half-Day Halibut Fishing
Ready to tangle with some serious flatfish? Join Guide Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters for a half-day halibut hunt off Vancouver Island. We're talking big fish, deep waters, and the chance to land a real trophy. Wayne knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for a top-notch fishing experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, this trip's got something for everyone. Just remember to grab your fishing license, and we'll take care of the rest. Let's get out there and see what's biting!
What to Expect on the Water
Our half-day halibut trip kicks off bright and early from the docks. We'll cruise out to Wayne's prime fishing spots, usually 30-60 minutes offshore. Once we're in the zone, it's all hands on deck. We'll be using heavy-duty rods and reels, dropping baits to the bottom where those big halibut lurk. It's not uncommon to hook into fish weighing 30-100 pounds, so be ready for a workout! The scenery out here is stunning - keep an eye out for whales, sea lions, and plenty of seabirds. Wayne's always got some good fishing stories to share while we wait for the bite. This trip's perfect for anglers looking to maximize their chances at a trophy halibut without spending a full day on the water.
Techniques for Hooking Halibut
Halibut fishing is all about patience and technique. We'll be using a method called "bounce balling" - dropping weighted lines with large hooks and bait to the ocean floor. The key is feeling for that telltale "thump" when a halibut takes the bait. Wayne will show you how to work the rod, keeping your line tight without spooking the fish. We use a mix of fresh and artificial baits - herring, salmon bellies, and big plastic squids are all halibut favorites. When you hook up, it's a battle of endurance. These flatfish fight hard, so we'll coach you through the process of wearing them down and bringing them boatside. For the biggest fish, we might even use a harpoon for a clean, safe landing. It's an adrenaline rush you won't forget!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Pacific Halibut are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These flatfish are the largest in the world, with some monsters topping 300 pounds! The average catch around Vancouver Island is usually in the 30-80 pound range, but triple-digit fish aren't unheard of. Halibut have both eyes on one side of their body and can change color to blend in with the ocean floor. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for unsuspecting prey to swim by. The best time to target halibut is typically from May through September when they move into shallower waters to feed. Anglers love halibut not just for their size, but for their firm, white flesh that's considered some of the best eating in the ocean. Landing one of these giants is a true accomplishment - it takes skill, strength, and a bit of luck.
Top Catches This Season
While we're focused on halibut, these waters are full of surprises. It's not uncommon to hook into some bonus species during our trips. Lingcod are frequent visitors to our baits - these aggressive predators put up a great fight and make excellent table fare. We also see our fair share of rockfish species like yelloweye and canary. If we're really lucky, we might even hook into a big salmon passing through the area. Wayne keeps detailed records of catches throughout the season, so he always knows where the hot spots are. Every trip is different, but that's part of the excitement. You never know when you might set a new personal best or land a fish with a great story behind it.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Fishing with Full Melt Charters isn't just about catching fish - it's about the whole experience. Wayne's got a knack for making everyone feel comfortable on the water, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. He's always happy to share tips and tricks to improve your fishing game. The boat's well-equipped with top-notch gear and electronics, so you're fishing with the best tools for the job. And let's not forget the views - the coastline of Vancouver Island is breathtaking, and you might spot some wildlife like orcas or sea otters during the trip. Many of our regulars say it's the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Plus, there's nothing quite like the feeling of bringing home some of the freshest seafood you'll ever taste. It's no wonder we see so many familiar faces season after season.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to get out on the water and battle some halibut, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our half-day charters with Wayne book up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, we can take up to 3 guests, so it's perfect for a small group or family outing. Don't worry if you're new to halibut fishing - Wayne's got all the gear and know-how to get you on the fish. Just bring your sense of adventure (and that fishing license!). Whether you're looking to check "catch a huge halibut" off your bucket list or just want a great day on the water, this trip delivers. So what are you waiting for? Give Full Melt Charters a call and let's start planning your halibut adventure off Vancouver Island. The big ones are out there - let's go find 'em!
Customer Review
Scott Colquhoun
July 20, 2025
Learn more about the animal
Pacific Halibut
Pacific Halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) Fish Description
The Pacific Halibut is one of the largest flatfish in the world (2nd biggest, next to its close relative, Atlantic Halibut). It’s a saltwater fish that thrives in deep cold waters. It has a muddy brown color and dark-brown spots. Its body is more elongated than most flatfishes and shaped like a diamond.
They’re strong swimmers and eat a variety of fishes from the bottom of the ocean - cods, turbots, pollocks, octopi, crabs, and shrimps. They also sometimes eat fishes from the pelagic - salmon, herring
Interesting Facts About the Pacific Halibut
- Pacific halibuts are called demersal fish, these are fish that stays in the bottom of the ocean, just like stingrays.
- Almost all halibuts are “right-eyed”, which means they are facing up with the “right side” of their face and the left side is the bottom.
Pacific Halibut Size
The Pacific halibut is a large fish that can grow up to 8 feet long and 5 feet wide and weigh up to 500 lbs. Their average weight is 20-40 lbs, but catching 100 is pretty common. As of now, there is no average length of the Pacific Halibut. They mature at the age of 8 for males and 12 years old for females.
Habitat & Distribution of the Pacific Halibut
The Pacific Halibut mainly lives in the deep waters of the northern Pacific region. They usually prefer depths 20-1000 feet, but they can go as deep as 3,600 feet. They prefer the cold temperatures of 37°-46°F and are mostly found on or near continental shelves.
In the U.S., their range is from California up to the Chukchi Sea. Good fishing spots are the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea. You can also find Pacific halibuts in nearer areas such as the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington.
Pacific halibuts migrate in a clockwise manner, from northwest to southeast. A good time to catch these fish is in summer, where they are more active in their feeding grounds and are closer to shallow waters. During winter, they go to deeper waters to spawn their eggs.
Fishing Techniques for the Pacific Halibut
Being bottom-dwellers, make sure you equip yourself with gears for deep fishing. Try to aim the sweet spot for fishing Pacific Halibut which is 150-500 feet. They like to stalk their prey from the bottom and being strong swimmers, it’s good to make a chase with your baits to tease the halibut. To send your baits to the bottom, use a 1-2 lb weight. Slightly cast your line forward to get the fly down and retrieve it fast every once in a while to check. Just leave the rod attached to the rod holder slightly bounce the rod up and down attracting the halibut. It’s a waiting game for this fish.
Fly fishing for Pacific halibuts is rare but it’s doable. For Fly Rods, use a 50-pound monoline with fast sinking heads and a 12-15 heavyweight rod with a 16-lb snippet. Recorded fly fishing for Pacific halibuts can go as heavy as 138 pounds. For spinner rods, use a 6-7 feet heavy rod with a 60-lb line and 1-1.25 lb lead.
Recommended baits are pink salmon heads and bellies, squids, herring, and octopus. To further catch the attention of the Pacific halibut, use some fishing attractants. For lures, use jigs or spoons that make some noise to attract them They’re known to use their sight and hearing in more shallow waters but in deeper waters, they hunt with scent.
About the Full Melt Charters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
Captian Chris was outstanding! Knowledgable, funny, and knew where to get the fish. Great communication throughout the booking process, super accommodating. Would definitely recommend, and will absolutely be booking again! Thanks again for the memorable day!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻