Halibut are also known as "barndoors" in Alaska because the largest caught halibut weighed 459 pounds. Usually, halibut weigh between 20 and 50 pounds. They live on the bottom of the sea and are very agile, which is why it is very difficult to catch them if you are not a professional fisherman.

Homer, often called the "Halibut Capital of the World," is the best place to visit due to its abundant halibut populations. Your best bet is to book into a full-day charter: Expect an early departure and an hour or more of boat travel before you get to a prime ocean spot.

Some charters include your tackle and gear in the price, and some even will help clean, package, and ship your fish home.

Halibut fishing in Alaska can be done all year long. Peak times vary depending on where you are. Note that charter fishing may have restrictions, such as no halibut retention on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in some areas like Southcentral Alaska.

Below are some of the hot spots for halibut fishing in Alaska that are very close to Anchorage.

Surrounding Areas Near Anchorage

Seward: Seward is the entry point to the nearby Kenai Fjords National Park, which is just a scenic drive south from Anchorage in 2.5 hours. Fish the deep waters of the North Gulf Coast, about an hour and a half by boat from Seward harbor. Sea lions, sea otters, puffins, porpoises, ducks, humpbacks, and orcas may wait en route. This port city offers excellent halibut fishing in Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska, less than two hours from Anchorage. You can also fish for rockfish here in July each year.

Homer: A 5-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Anchorage. "Alaska's halibut capital" is the gateway to Kachemak Bay, one of the richest bays in the world. Homer halibut fishing in Alaska is famous among pro and newbie fishermen because of the exciting adventure it offers. It is off the cruise circuit and appeals to more independent and adventure-minded visitors. Enjoy views of mountains and volcanoes and keep an eye out for whales, thousands of shorebirds, and other marine life.

Fish close to Prince of Wales Island, which is at the edge of the Alexander Archipelago, for port protection. Before making their way further north, the salmon arrive here first.

Ketchikan: This is a great spot to take a halibut charter if you're cruising the Inside Passage, as it is included in many cruise itineraries.

Yakutat: The halibut are not remote, even though this Southeast town is. To locate the big boys, you only need to ride out onto the water for about 10 to 15 minutes. Also, it is a great spot for salmon fishing, as well as hiking and even surfing.

Not much. While many anglers prefer to bring their gear, many charters will provide you with high-quality equipment and even your fishing permit. Just be sure to ask about gear before you leave home. You can purchase a license online, in outdoor gear stores, or even in many supermarkets if you plan to fish alone in Alaska.