Halibut fishing in Lofoten is something truly special. Here, you have the opportunity to target big fish in surprisingly shallow water, and around Nappstraumen you will find sandy bottoms, edges and current-swept areas that are well suited to targeted halibut fishing.
This is also a type of fishing where it pays to be active. Finding the right drift, keeping track of the depth and maintaining good contact with the bait at all times can make a big difference. And when a fish strikes in shallow water, the perhaps most exciting part begins.
Why fish for halibut in Lofoten?
Lofoten is known for its sea fishing for several different species, but for many sport anglers, halibut is the ultimate dream fish.
One reason is the opportunity to fish in relatively shallow water. Around Nappstraumen, there are several different types of bottom where you can search for halibut, and when the fish strikes in shallow water, it is often a truly thrilling fight.
Here, fishing is largely about reading the conditions. Current, wind, depth and the boat's drift affect how the bait is presented and which areas are interesting on the day.
Where can you find halibut around Nappstraumen?
Halibut are often associated with sandy and gravelly bottoms, but rather than simply looking for a particular depth, it is interesting to observe how the bottom changes.
Edges between shallower and deeper water, current-swept passages and areas where different bottom structures meet are worth spending time on. In Nappstraumen, there are areas where halibut fishing takes place at depths of less than 25 metres and even considerably shallower than that.
In such places, a good drift is important. Instead of simply dropping the bait and hoping for the best, you want to fish through the area in a controlled way while keeping track of both the bottom and the bait.
Jigging, baitfish or lure fishing for halibut?
There are several ways to fish for halibut, and the best method depends on the depth, current and conditions on the day.
Jig fishing for halibut
Large jigs are a classic method for targeted halibut fishing. The weight is adjusted to the depth and drift so that you can maintain good contact with the bait without using heavier tackle than necessary.
The jig can be fished close to the bottom, but halibut can also rise to take a bait. There is therefore no reason to assume that the bait must always be bouncing just above the bottom.
Fishing for halibut with baitfish
Fishing with baitfish is another well-proven method. The bait is presented beneath the boat while you drift over promising areas, and this method works well when halibut is the main target for the day.
Spinning for halibut in shallow water
When halibut move into shallow water, it also opens up opportunities for more active spinning. Casting for halibut with lighter equipment provides a completely different experience from traditional heavy saltwater fishing, and when a good fish strikes in shallow water, things can get very lively.
Would you like to read more about this method? Read our guide to spinning for halibut in Norway.
Drifting is a major part of halibut fishing
A good drift can be the difference between properly fishing the spot you have found and drifting past it without the lure working where you want it to.
Keep track of how the boat moves over the bottom, changes in depth and how much line is needed to maintain contact with the lure. If the drift becomes too fast or the boat starts heading in the wrong direction, it is often better to motor back and reset the drift than to continue fishing water you had not actually intended to fish.
This is also one reason why the skipper plays an important role when targeting halibut.
When halibut strike in shallow water
This is where shallow-water halibut fishing really comes into its own.
A larger halibut that strikes in 10, 15 or 20 metres of water can take off for long distances to the side. You need to keep an eye on the fish, the line and the boat. If it is a larger fish, the skipper may need to follow it and help the angler maintain a good angle during the fight.
When a halibut decides to take off, you rarely need any extra motivation to hold on tightly to the rod.
See the fishing trip to Nappstraumen
When is the best time for halibut fishing in Lofoten?
Halibut can be targeted during much of the season in Northern Norway, but late spring, summer and autumn are interesting periods for those who primarily want to target halibut around Nappstraumen.
During March and April, the focus is instead largely on the classic skrei fishing for large cod. From late spring onward, the fishing becomes more varied, and halibut plays a greater role. Summer also brings long, bright days, giving you plenty of time to adapt your fishing to the weather and conditions.
What equipment is needed for halibut fishing?
For traditional jigging and bait fishing, a heavier saltwater fishing setup is a good starting point. The equipment needs to handle both heavier lures and the forces that arise when a larger halibut decides to take off.
At the same time, the equipment does not need to be heavier than necessary. In shallower water, a heavier spinning rod or fixed-spool rod can make the fishing much more active and provide a truly exciting fight.
Braided line, heavy leader material and lures in different weights make it possible to adapt your fishing when the depth and current change during the day.
How to plan a day targeting halibut
Start by checking the weather, wind and current, and then choose which area you want to spend time in. Once you have found promising water, it is a matter of making good drifts over the spot. Keep an eye on the fish finder and chartplotter, follow the bottom structure and make sure the baits are working at the right depth.
If an area produces nothing, you do not have to stay there all day. Try the next drop-off, move to another sandy bottom or change your method. It is precisely this active searching that makes halibut fishing so enjoyable.
Halibut fishing in Nappstraumen with Outside Travels
On our fishing trip to Nappstraumen, you have six full days of fishing and your own boat for the week. This gives you plenty of time to get to know the area and adapt your fishing to the weather and conditions.
The camp has Swedish-speaking guides who know the area and can help with up-to-date information about the fishing. If you would like additional help on the water, you can also book a fishing guide. Complete fishing equipment and flotation suits can also be rented on site.
If you would like to read more about the destination, fishing for cod and saithe, and what a week in the area might look like, we also recommend our guide to sea fishing in Nappstraumen in Lofoten.
See the fishing trip to Nappstraumen
Frequently asked questions about halibut fishing in Lofoten
Can you fish for halibut in shallow water in Lofoten?
Yes. Around Nappstraumen, there are areas where targeted halibut fishing takes place in relatively shallow water, sometimes under 25 metres and even shallower.
What methods are used for halibut?
Jigs and baitfish are two common methods. In shallower water, it is also possible to target halibut with more active spinning.
What type of bottom do halibut prefer?
Sandy and gravel bottoms are classic areas to search. Drop-offs, changes in depth and areas with strong currents are also interesting when looking for halibut.
When is the best time for halibut in Lofoten?
The latter part of spring, summer and autumn are interesting periods for targeted halibut fishing around Nappstraumen.
How deep do you fish for halibut in Nappstraumen?
It varies depending on the area and conditions. Some fishing takes place at depths of less than 25 metres, and there are also considerably shallower areas.
Can you rent fishing equipment in Nappstraumen?
Yes. On Outside Travels' trip, you can rent complete fishing equipment and a flotation suit on site.