Across Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, the fishing crews we work with are seeing some worrying changes on the water. Halibut are getting harder to find in traditional grounds, and many of the fish that do show up are smaller than what fishermen have seen in past seasons. Several recent reports now suggest that Pacific halibut numbers are near their lowest point in decades.
These shifts are showing up in harvest numbers too. Coastwide catch limits for 2025 have been reduced based on updated assessments from the International Pacific Halibut Commission. The number of young halibut entering the population has been below average for several years, which means fewer large, mature fish available for harvest.
If you enjoy cooking halibut at home, this is important context. Wild seafood changes as the ocean changes, and right now halibut is going through a challenging cycle.
What is causing the decline
There is not a single answer. Most scientists believe several factors are working together.
• Fewer young halibut surviving to adulthood
• Shifts in ocean temperatures and conditions
• Changes in prey availability and predator pressure
• Assessment models that may have overestimated stock strength in past years
• Reduced survey coverage due to budget constraints at the International Pacific Halibut Commission
Researchers in Alaska and along the West Coast are continuing to study these trends. So far, the data suggests this is a multi year pattern rather than a one season anomaly.
For more on current stock conditions, visit:
International Pacific Halibut Commission, Stock Status
https://www.iphc.int/data/stock-status
How this affects fishing crews
These changes are deeply felt by the fishermen we work with. Many are traveling farther, moving gear more often, and encountering smaller fish than they have seen in decades. What once felt like a predictable halibut season now requires more time, more fuel, and more uncertainty.
These shifts also affect coastal communities that depend on commercial fishing for income and stability. A difficult halibut year often means a difficult year across the waterfront.
What this means for the market
When supply tightens, the effects show up throughout the industry. Prices often rise, portion sizes may vary, and availability can change quickly. Some buyers and restaurants will adjust offerings based on what they are able to secure.
For home cooks, it simply means halibut may look a little different this year, and it may be offered in more limited quantities. This is one of the realities of choosing wild seafood. It reflects what is happening in the ocean, not in a factory.
Responsible management in action
The good news is that the Pacific halibut fishery is managed with long term sustainability in mind. When surveys show a decline, harvest levels are adjusted. When the stock needs time to recover, the system responds.
This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing wild US seafood. Strong scientific oversight and transparent harvest rules help protect the future of the fishery.
NOAA guidance for 2025 harvest levels can be found here:
NOAA 2025 Pacific Halibut Fishery Update
How we approach halibut at Premier Catch
At Premier Catch, we stay in close communication with our partners in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, many of whom have fished these waters for generations. When halibut conditions shift, we hear it directly from the people on the boats.
We remain committed to offering premium quality, responsibly harvested halibut whenever it is available. If availability tightens or sizes vary, we will always communicate that clearly and offer suggestions for seasonal alternatives. Our goal is to make sure you feel informed, supported, and excited about the wild seafood you bring home.
What customers can expect
Based on what we are seeing now, customers may notice:
• Smaller average portion sizes across the industry
• Higher prices driven by reduced supply
• Limited availability depending on the port or season
• More emphasis on responsible purchasing and transparent sourcing
Choosing wild US seafood supports fishing families, coastal economies, and healthy oceans. Sharing this information is one of the ways we help keep those connections strong.
Our perspective
Even with the challenges, we remain optimistic. The halibut fishery is well managed, and adjusting harvest levels is a sign that the system is working as intended. Giving the stock room to rebuild today means more halibut in the years ahead.
We will continue to follow the research, stay in close communication with our fishing partners, and share updates as we learn more. Thank you for supporting wild seafood and the people who bring it to your table.
Further reading
Seattle Times coverage of recent halibut trends
International Pacific Halibut Commission
Photo credit: Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
