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Explainer: What is Halibut?

A Brief Introduction

    What is halibut?

    Halibut is a large flatfish native to the North Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans that is caught by small-boat fishermen using longline gear.

    How big do halibut get?

    According to NOAA fisheries, Alaskan halibut can reach up to eight feet in length and weigh over 500 pounds. Fishermen jokingly refer to halibut as “barn doors” due to their large size and flat shape. Thanks to their size, halibut are one of the highest-yielding and most productive fish.

    How long do halibut live?

    Halibut can live up to 55 years which is much longer than a salmon’s lifespan and much shorter than a yelloweye rockfish’s lifespan.

    How do halibut avoid predators?

    Halibut are two colors, which is a method of camouflage called countershading. They’re brown on top to blend in with the seafloor and white underneath to blend in with the sky. This helps them avoid predators, although because of their size, adult halibut have few predators — mainly sharks, marine mammals, and humans.

    What are the best cuts of halibut meat?

    Most halibut meat comes from large fillets on each side of their bodies with a small medallion cut from their large cheeks — located on either side of their head. Halibut cheeks are a delicacy and are especially prized for being deliciously tender.

    What is the culinary profile of halibut?

    Halibut is a white fish with a low fat content and a mild flavor. It has a firm texture with dense meaty flakes and is especially versatile — it can be pan-seared, grilled, steamed, fried, and more!

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