HOW BIG DO HALIBUT GET IN SAN FRANCISCO BAY? WHY THE BAY IS THE TOP SPOT FOR TROPHY CATCHES
halibut trophy catches at Bill’s Sportfishing & Guide Service
When it comes to halibut fishing, few places rival the consistency, convenience, and quality of halibut fishing in San Francisco Bay. With waters that are both rich in bait and easy to navigate, it’s no wonder anglers from across the state choose this area to chase the elusive and powerful California halibut. But just how big do these fish get—and why is the Bay such a hot spot for them?
At Bill’s Sportfishing & Guide Service, we’ve spent decades helping anglers land some of the biggest halibut in San Francisco Bay—and here’s what we’ve learned.
How Big Are Halibut in San Francisco Bay?
The California halibut found in San Francisco Bay are known for their quality and fight. While smaller halibut in the 22–26 inch range are common, it’s not unusual for our clients to hook into fish over 30 inches—and sometimes even 40+ inch trophies weighing 25–30 pounds or more!
Typical size ranges:
- Legal Minimum: 22 inches
- Average Catch: 24–36 inches
- Trophy Fish: 40+ inches (20–30+ lbs)
These flatfish are ambush predators that bury themselves in the sandy bottom and strike when bait passes overhead. When hooked, they put up a powerful, twisting fight—making each catch a true accomplishment.
Why San Francisco Bay Is One of the Best Places to Fish for Halibut
There are plenty of reasons halibut fishing San Francisco Bay is considered top-tier:
- Shallow, Sandy Bottoms
California halibut thrive in sandy, muddy flats found throughout the Bay. Locations like the Berkeley Flats, Alameda Rock Wall, and Oyster Point offer perfect feeding grounds—and our guides at Bill’s know them like the back of their hand.
- Tidal Movement and Bait Abundance
The constant tidal movement brings in schools of anchovies, sardines, and shiners—natural prey for halibut. These bait-rich waters keep halibut in the Bay from early spring through late summer.
- Close-to-Shore Action
You don’t need to head miles offshore. Our halibut trips depart right from the Bay and get you on the fish fast. That means more fishing and less travel time.
- Reliable Fishing Season
From April through August, halibut fishing in San Francisco Bay is at its peak. During these months, we see a steady flow of keeper-sized fish—and your odds of hooking a trophy dramatically increase.
- Expert Guidance = Bigger Fish
At Bill’s Sportfishing & Guide Service, we bring the knowledge, tackle, and tide-savvy techniques that put our clients on big San Francisco Bay halibut. From rigging live bait to reading structure and currents, we take the guesswork out of fishing so you can focus on landing your next personal best.
Whether it’s your first halibut or your biggest yet, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Book Your Halibut Fishing Trip Today
Don’t miss your shot at catching one of the Bay’s legendary halibut. With experienced captains, premium gear, and a track record of success, Bill’s Sportfishing & Guide Service is your go-to choice for halibut fishing in San Francisco Bay.
Now booking halibut charters April through September!
Call now at
(916) 947-6441 to reserve your spot and get ready to battle a Bay giant!
