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The commercial season and regulations for Pacific halibut are set in April or early May by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). It is unlawful to take halibut for commercial purposes except in accordance with NMFS regulations.
Find current regulations, including logbook requirements and fishing periods, at NOAA Fisheries: Pacific halibut fishing on the West Coast and the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) Fishery Regulations 2024.
A free permit (with application fee) is required for all commercial vessels that retain Pacific halibut. Applications for the directed commercial fishery are due by February 15 and applications for incidental halibut fisheries are due by March 1.
Apply online at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permit/pacific-halibut-permits.
It is unlawful to take any Pacific halibut that (with the head on) is less than 32 inches in length measured in a straight line, passing over the pectoral fin, from the tip of the lower jaw with the mouth closed, to the extreme end of the middle of the tail. All Pacific halibut caught in IPHC Regulatory Area 2A (Washington, Oregon, and California) must be landed with their heads on and gills and entrails removed.
A vessel may retain and land at any time any Pacific halibut that has an IPHC tag attached to it at the time of capture if the halibut with tag still attached is reported at time of landing to a representative of the IPHC or to an officer of a state or provincial (Canada) government.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Oregon Commercial Fishing Regulations Synopsis
Oregon Administrative Rules (OARS)
Amendment 32 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan: Modifications to non-trawl sector area management measures
Compliance Guides for West Coast Groundfish
International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) for research and assessment information
Sign up for Pacific Halibut News from the West Coast Region
75 fm RCA line modified to include Heceta Bank YRCA and Amendment 32 EFHCAs (pdf)
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