Halibut vs Fluke: What's the difference?

Fluke and halibut are both flatfish, but they are different species with very distinct characteristics! Here are some differences between the two:

1. Appearance: Fluke have a more elongated and slender body compared to the broader and rounder body of halibut. Fluke also have a distinct curve in their lateral line, while halibut have a straighter lateral line.
2. Size: Halibut are typically much larger than fluke. The Atlantic halibut can grow up to 700 pounds, while fluke usually range from 1-3 pounds.
3. Habitat: Halibut are typically found in deeper waters, while fluke prefer shallower waters closer to shore.
4. Taste: Halibut have a firmer and meatier texture compared to the more delicate and flaky texture of fluke. Halibut also has a more distinct flavor, while fluke has a milder taste.

Overall, while both fluke and halibut are flatfish with some similarities in appearance, they are distinct species with differences in size, habitat, and taste.

Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) and Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) are different species of halibut that have some differences in appearance, habitat, and distribution.

Pacific halibut are found along the North American coast from California to Alaska and into Russian waters. They have a more slender body compared to the Atlantic halibut and typically weigh between 20-80 pounds. Pacific halibut are also known for their sweet and delicate flavor.

Atlantic halibut, on the other hand, are found in the North Atlantic Ocean, from the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Canada to Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom. They have a broader and more rounded body shape compared to the Pacific halibut and can grow much larger, with some individuals weighing over 700 pounds. Atlantic halibut have a firmer and meatier texture compared to Pacific halibut and are known for their rich flavor.

While both species are flatfish and belong to the same family, they are distinct species with differences in appearance, habitat, and taste.

The Pacific Halibut is a popular game fish in Alaska, and some of the biggest halibut ever caught have been landed in these waters. Here are some examples of the just how big these fish get!

1. The world record for the largest Pacific halibut ever caught was set in Alaska in 1996. The fish weighed 459 pounds and was caught in the waters off Dutch Harbor.
2. In 2019, a halibut weighing 482 pounds was caught in the waters off Gustavus, Alaska.
3. In 2018, a 374-pound halibut was caught off the coast of Sitka, Alaska.
4. In 2017, a 288-pound halibut was caught near Ketchikan, Alaska.
5. In 2016, a 250-pound halibut was caught in the waters off Homer, Alaska.

These are just a few examples of some of the big halibut caught in Alaska. Halibut fishing is a popular activity in the state, and anglers from all over the world come to Alaska to try their luck at catching these massive fish.