If you’re looking for a fun and exciting fishing adventure, consider catching California halibut. These fish can grow up to 5 feet in length and weigh over 50 pounds, making them a thrilling catch for any angler. But in order to successfully catch these fish, you need the right lures.
Before purchasing any lures, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the lure is important. California halibut tend to go for bigger lures, so larger sized lures are recommended. Secondly, the color of the lure matters too. In saltwater, bright colors such as chartreuse, pink, and white tend to work best. Lastly, it is important to consider the depth you will be fishing at. Different lures sink at various rates, so choose one that sinks at the same rate as the depth you will be fishing.
Are you tired of constantly using the same lures without seeing any bites? Do you want to increase your chances of catching California halibut on your next trip? Keep reading to learn more about the best lures for California halibut. Have you ever wondered if live bait is better than artificial lures? Or are you unsure which type of lure to choose when fishing in different water conditions? The answers to these questions and more will be revealed in this article, so you can have a successful and enjoyable halibut fishing experience.
10 Best Lures For California Halibut
# | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
1
|
This product is ideal for vertical speed lure slow pitch flat fishing with various weight options and glow-in-the-dark painted sides.
|
|
||
2
|
This product is ideal for saltwater fishing of Tuna, Salmon, Sailfish, Striped bass, Grouper Snapper, and Kingfish.
|
|
||
3
|
It is ideal for fishing halibut, lingcod, rock grouper, and cod.
|
|
||
4
|
This product is ideal for inshore fishing, specifically for saltwater environments, using jerkbait crankbait or minnow lures.
|
|
||
5
|
The product is ideal for fishing in shallow waters and catching a variety of fish species.
|
|
||
6
|
It is an ideal fishing lure for catching various types of fish such as halibut, lingcod, rock grouper, cod, and striper.
|
|
||
7
|
The product is ideal for fishing in saltwater.
|
|
||
8
|
Ideal for catching various types of fish such as sand dabs, halibut, rock cod, and grouper using jigging techniques.
|
|
||
9
|
This product is ideal for saltwater fishing with lures that mimic the movement and appearance of squid and minnows.
|
|
||
10
|
It is ideal for saltwater fishing at night or in deep waters, attracting a variety of fish species.
|
|
1. Offshore Glow Jigs With Hook Assist (6 Pack)

The Calissa Offshore Tackle jigs are a top-notch product that will provide you with an outstanding fishing experience. The product comes with a 12-month guarantee, which ensures that any issues you encounter will be resolved with no hassle and no additional charges.
Additionally, purchasing a 6-pack lure bundle will give you a free jig bag worth $25, making this deal even better. The jigs are coated with 7X coating Gorilla paint, which provides a sealed finish that prevents the paint from flaking and chipping. This corrosion-resistant rig is equipped with a #3/0 size hook, 350 lbs kevlar cord, and is the best lure for multi-species fishing. The product is perfect for catching a wide range of fish, including tuna, wahoo, mahi, yellowtail, halibut, salmon, rockfish, striped bass, red snapper, grouper, cobia, redfish, tilefish, amberjack, and more!
The jigs are made of an ultra-strong lead alloy that is difficult to dent or damage, which ensures their longevity. Additionally, the product is equipped with 3x reinforced ring and hooks, which prevents bending and breaking while fighting game fish up to 300+lbs.
2. Deep Sea Fast Jig Fishing Lures

Introducing the Top Quality Lead Jig, a must-have in every fisherman's tackle box. Crafted with a full lead streamlined body, this jig can drop faster into the strike zone to attack deep water fish. The paint on both sides of the jig makes it more attractive in all directions, while the realistic 3D eyes offer better disguise and attract much bigger fish.
This high-performance fishing jig is designed with a weight-balanced design that allows it to rotate 360° quickly, mimicking an injured baitfish when lifted rapidly. Additionally, the jig swings when descending, creating excellent motion performance even in strong current conditions to tempt many fish.
Crafted with a multi-layer seal coating that mimics fish scales, this jig reflects light in the water to excite the predator's vision. The coating also keeps the paint from flaking, ensuring that it stays well on your next sea fishing adventure. The bright color jigs are very popular with most big fish, which cannot resist biting these jigs. Don't miss out on the chance to catch your next big catch with these jigs.
The Top Quality Lead Jig features a built-in high-strength steel hook that is strong, sharp, and corrosion-resistant, allowing for quicker penetration and effective fighting with big predators. The split ring design allows you to replace the desired hook to meet your needs.
Available in 3 colors of Blue, Green, and Pink, and 4 sizes of 2.82oz/80g, 3.53oz/100g, 5.29oz/150g, and 7.05oz/200g, this jig is perfect for catching Tunas, Kingfish, Bluefin, Yellowfin, Cobia, Dogtooth, Amberjacks, Jacks, Bonito, Snappers, Groupers, and more deep water fish species.
3. 4" Sanddabs For Ultimate Fishing Success

The Sanddabs fishing lure is a popular choice among professional anglers who are looking to fill their fishing limits. This product comes in a 2-pack with each lure measuring 4 inches in length with the tail extended. The Sanddabs are made with soft plastic material, making them durable and lightweight.
The smooth skin of the Sanddabs feels and looks like a real fish, and its soft body allows fishes to sink their teeth into it, increasing their hold onto the bait for a longer period of time. The realistic movement of the Sanddabs, simulating the natural sanddab's jigging and trolling motion, increases the chances of your fishing line getting struck.
If the tail of the Sanddabs is bitten off, anglers can easily replace it with a large grub with the tail and attach it to the stinger hook. Anglers have reported that they still catch fish using this tail replacement method.
This Sanddabs fishing lure is perfect for catching larger fish, including lingcod, snapper, grouper, halibut, and rock fish. It weighs 3/8 oz and is easy to use, whether you're trolling, jigging, casting, or shaking it.
4. Calissa Inshore Jerkbait Lure – 5 Pack.

The mixed color pack of fishing lures includes five different options – Barred Surf Perch, Black Anchovy, Chrome Sardine, White, and Blue Anchovy. They are designed for use in saltwater environments and are made from high-quality materials that resist corrosion. The hooks are upgraded saltwater grade, so they won't bend when fighting with large fish weighing over 10 lbs.
These lures have a swimming depth of 1-2 ft and a length of 4.5". They weigh 5/8 oz, making them perfect for targeting big Halibut, large Calicos, and oversized perch from shore. They can also be used to catch largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass in freshwater.
This innovative American-owned company provides fishing enthusiasts with the best quality lures for their fishing needs. The lures are designed specifically to help anglers catch large fish in various environments.
The company provides a 12-month guarantee to its customers. If you are disappointed with your purchase or out-fished by other lure brands, you can send them a message, and they will refund your purchase without any questions.
5. Yo-Zuri F1157 Hbs 3ds Minnow Suspending Lure, 4-Inch, Holographic Black Silver

Introducing the 3D Internal Prism, a top-of-the-line fishing lure that is sure to attract even the most elusive fish. This lure boasts a tight wobbling action that will have fish biting left and right. Weighing in at 9/16oz, this lure is easy to handle and will not weigh down your fishing line.
With a max diver depth of 6-ft, this lure is perfect for shallow water fishing. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, the 3D Internal Prism is an excellent choice for catching a variety of fish species. Its diamond-shaped lip ensures that this lure has a realistic swimming motion that will catch the eye of any nearby fish.
The 3D Internal Prism is made from high-quality materials that are built to last. Its internal prism design gives it a unique and eye-catching appearance that is sure to make it stand out in your tackle box. This lure is versatile and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
6. Sanddab Lure For Halibut And Grouper Fishing

The Sanddab lure is a popular choice among professional anglers who want to fill their limits in the boat. Measuring 6" in pearl white with tail extended, this lure is designed to mimic the look and feel of a real sanddab. It is made with soft plastic material that is both durable and lightweight, making it easy to use for extended periods.
The Sanddab's smooth skin feels and looks like the real thing, while its soft body allows fish to sink their teeth in and hold on tightly. This increases the chances of fish holding onto your bait longer, giving you more time to reel them in. The realistic movement of the lure simulates a natural sanddab, jigging and trolling motion, and its tail action increases the chances of your fishing line getting struck.
If the tail is bitten off, it's easy to replace it with a large grub and attach it to the stinger hook. Anglers have reported continued success using this tail replacement method. The Sanddab lure is perfect for catching larger fish, including lingcod, snapper, grouper, halibut, and rock fish.
Weighing 1 3/8 oz, it's easy to use the Sanddab lure in a variety of fishing techniques. You can troll it, jig it, cast it, and shake it to attract fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Sanddab lure is a reliable and effective tool to have in your fishing kit.
7. Lucky Craft Sw Surf Pointer 115mr (714 Metallic Sardine)

The Surf Pointer 115MR is a top-of-the-line fishing lure that is sure to catch the eye of any serious angler. With a weight of 3/4oz (22.0g), this lure is designed to sink smoothly through the water, mimicking the natural movements of prey fish.
Equipped with three sharp #6 hooks, the Surf Pointer 115MR is built to withstand even the toughest catches. And with a maximum diving depth of 2.6 – 5ft, this lure is perfect for both shallow and deeper waters.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Surf Pointer 115MR is a must-have in your tackle box. With its precise weight and expertly crafted design, this lure is guaranteed to attract a wide variety of fish species. So why wait? Order yours today and experience the thrill of the catch like never before!
8. 10" Pearl White Sanddab Fishing Jig For Halibut

The Sanddabs fishing lure is the real deal for anglers who are looking to catch bigger fish. Measuring at 10 inches with its tail extended, this pearl white lure is a popular choice among many professional anglers who swear by its effectiveness. With its realistic appearance and movement, it has been dubbed as the "Lingcod Candy" by many fishermen.
Made with soft plastic material, the Sanddabs features a smooth skin that looks and feels like the real thing. Its soft and pliable body allows fishes to sink their teeth into it and hold on tightly, increasing the chances of catching more fish.
The Sanddabs lure boasts a realistic movement that simulates the natural motion of a sanddab. Its jigging and trolling motion, coupled with its tail action, increases the chances of getting strikes on your fishing line. In the event that the tail gets bitten off, simply attach a large grub with tail to the stinger hook. Anglers have reported continued success with this tail replacement method.
Weighing at 7 1/8 ounces, the Sanddabs lure is easy to use for any fishing technique. Whether you troll it, jig it, cast it, or shake it, it is perfect for catching bigger fish such as lingcod, snapper, grouper, halibut, and rockfish.
9. Aorace Deep Sea Saltwater Lures: Squid & Minnow

The hard baits available on Amazon boast of a durable ABS hard plastic body, exquisite coating, and sharp metal hooks that make them a high-quality product. These baits are designed to work exceptionally well for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. The steel balls inside the baits flow to the tail during casting, helping you cast further and ensure the swimming stroke of every bait, making them a productive choice when trolling, surfcasting on salmon, sea trout, striper, pike, bass, musky, and more.
The baits are available in two modes – lure minnow and pencil – making them portable and environmental. These hard baits come in brilliant colors and patterns of real bait fish, which create a life-like swimming action in water. The smooth and rapid action of the baits, along with the bright colors and 3D eyes, make them a powerful catching tool. The treble hooks are sharp, ensuring that the fish are caught quickly and effortlessly.
The hard baits are suitable for various fishing styles and are perfect for anglers who want to catch different types of fish. The pencil and minnow modes of the baits make them versatile, allowing the angler to choose the right bait for the specific fish they are targeting. The baits are designed to be long-lasting and are a great investment for anyone who loves to fish.
10. Deep Sea Glow Fishing Lures

The fishing industry has been revolutionized by the introduction of the new Strong Material Made Squid Lure. This lure is crafted from tough vinyl that is capable of withstanding the abuse of even the toothiest and fiercest sea monsters.
The lure boasts a 98% lifelike appearance, with a milky green skin and skirt that is almost indistinguishable from a real squid swimming underwater. This attracts the attention of other fish, including the larger ones that are always eager for a big meal.
The Strong Material Made Squid Lure is designed with double attractants to ensure maximum effectiveness. It features a built-in LED that is water-activated and lights up automatically upon contact with water. Additionally, the skin of the lure glows in the dark, making it highly visible even in low-light conditions.
The Ball Barrel Swivel, Braid Steel Wire, and 6/0 Hook of the upgraded and strengthened version of the Strong Material Made Squid Lure ensure that it can swim limitlessly in the water, all under your control. The premium hook setting of the lure is guaranteed to catch even the biggest fish.
Measuring 15cm/6" and weighing 2.47oz/70g, the Strong Material Made Squid Lure boasts an impressive 300-hour lifespan. It is capable of working on a variety of offshore species, including Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, Lingcod, Dolphin, King Fish, Sailfish, Dorado, and many more.
Best Lures For California Halibut FAQs
Are soft plastic lures or hard baits better for catching halibut in California?
When it comes to catching halibut in California, both soft plastic lures and hard baits have their advantages. Soft plastic lures are often preferred by anglers due to their versatility and ability to mimic the movement and texture of live bait. They can also be rigged in a variety of ways to match the conditions and preferences of the fish. Additionally, soft plastics are often more durable and can withstand multiple bites from halibut.
On the other hand, hard baits can be effective in attracting halibut from a distance due to their realistic appearance and ability to create a disturbance in the water. They are also less likely to be damaged by the sharp teeth of a halibut, making them a good choice for anglers targeting larger fish.
Ultimately, the choice between soft plastic lures and hard baits for halibut fishing in California will depend on a variety of factors, including the fishing conditions, the preferences of the angler, and the behavior of the fish. It is always a good idea to experiment with different baits and techniques to determine what works best in a given situation.
Are there any specific brands of lures that are known to work well for California halibut?
There are several brands of lures that have been known to work well for catching California halibut. One popular brand is the Savage Gear Sandeel, which mimics the natural baitfish that halibut feed on. Another effective brand is the Lucky Craft Flash Minnow, which has a realistic swimming action and can be fished at various depths. The Berkley Gulp! Swimming Mullet is another great option, as it is infused with scent and has a lifelike tail that entices halibut to strike. Additionally, leadhead jigs with soft plastic grubs or swimbaits can also be effective, especially when fished near the bottom. It's important to choose lures that closely resemble the natural prey of the halibut and to experiment with different colors and sizes until you find what works best in your specific location and conditions.
Are there any specific colors or patterns of lures that work best for California halibut?
When it comes to fishing for California halibut, there are several colors and patterns of lures that have proven to be effective. Generally, the best colors for halibut lures are white, chartreuse, and pink. These colors mimic the natural prey of halibut, such as small baitfish and squid. Additionally, lures with a realistic texture and movement can also be effective, such as those with a soft plastic tail that flutters in the water.
In terms of patterns, lures with a speckled or mottled appearance can be effective, as they blend in with the sandy bottom where halibut often feed. Some anglers also swear by lures with a holographic finish, as they reflect light and can attract the attention of halibut in murky water.
Ultimately, the best lure for halibut will depend on a variety of factors, including the time of day, water conditions, and the behavior of the fish. It's always a good idea to experiment with different colors and patterns to see what works best in your local area.
Does the type of lure used affect the size of halibut caught?
Yes, the type of lure used can affect the size of halibut caught. Different types of lures are designed to target specific fish species and can vary in size, shape, color, and action. Halibut are known to be attracted to lures that mimic their natural prey, such as herring, sand lance, and squid. Using a lure that matches the size and color of these prey species can increase the chances of catching larger halibut. Additionally, the depth at which the lure is fished can also impact the size of halibut caught. Larger halibut tend to reside in deeper waters, so using a lure that can effectively reach those depths can increase the chances of catching a larger fish. Overall, choosing the right lure for the specific fishing conditions and targeting the preferred prey of halibut can lead to a more successful and potentially larger catch.
Is it better to use weighted or unweighted lures for halibut fishing in California?
When it comes to halibut fishing in California, the decision to use weighted or unweighted lures largely depends on the fishing conditions and personal preference. Weighted lures are typically used in deeper waters or areas with strong currents, as they sink quickly and can reach the desired depth faster. On the other hand, unweighted lures are ideal for shallow waters or areas with weaker currents, as they float on the surface or sink slowly, allowing for a more natural presentation.
Additionally, the type of lure can also affect the success of your halibut fishing. Popular choices include jigs, swimbaits, and bucktail jigs, among others. It's always a good idea to research the fishing location and talk to local experts to determine the best lure and technique for the specific area.
Ultimately, the key to successful halibut fishing is to experiment with different lures and techniques until you find what works best for you. Always remember to follow local regulations and guidelines to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience.
Should anglers use scent or attractant on their lures when fishing for halibut in California?
Using scent or attractant on lures while fishing for halibut in California can increase the chances of catching fish. Halibut have a keen sense of smell, and using scents or attractants on lures can make the bait more appealing to them. However, it is important to note that not all scents and attractants work equally well for halibut.
Anglers should choose a scent or attractant that is specifically designed for halibut. Some popular options include squid, shrimp, and herring scents. It is also important to use the scent or attractant sparingly. Too much can actually repel fish instead of attracting them.
Another factor to consider is the type of lure being used. Some lures are designed to hold scent or attractant better than others. Soft plastic lures, for example, can absorb scent and hold it for longer periods of time.
Overall, using scent or attractant on lures can be a useful tool for anglers targeting halibut in California. However, it is important to choose the right scent or attractant and use it appropriately for the best results.
What are the most effective lures for catching California halibut?
California halibut, also known as the California flounder, is a prized game fish for many anglers in the Pacific. Catching a halibut can be a challenging task, but with the right lure, you can increase your chances of success.
One of the most effective lures for catching California halibut is the swimbait. Swimbait is a soft plastic lure that mimics the movement and appearance of live baitfish. It can be rigged on a lead head jig or a weighted hook and retrieved slowly along the bottom. Other popular lures for halibut include white or chartreuse-colored bucktail jigs, plastic grubs, and sandworms.
It is important to note that the size and weight of the lure should match the conditions you are fishing in. If the water is choppy or there is a strong current, a heavier lure will be needed to keep it from drifting too far. On the other hand, if the water is calm, a lighter lure will work best to entice the halibut to bite.
In conclusion, the most effective lures for catching California halibut are swimbaits, bucktail jigs, plastic grubs, and sandworms. The key to success is to match the lure's size and weight to the water and fishing conditions.
What is the best technique for using lures to catch California halibut?
When it comes to catching California halibut using lures, there are several techniques that can be effective. One of the best techniques is to use a slow and steady retrieve with your lure. This mimics the natural movement of the halibut's preferred prey, such as small fish or crustaceans.
Another effective technique is to use a jig with a strip of bait attached to it. This can be a particularly effective method when fishing in deeper waters where halibut tend to be more active. By using a jig with a bait strip, you can create a more enticing presentation that will attract the halibut to your lure.
It's also important to choose the right type of lure for the conditions you are fishing in. For example, if the water is murky or choppy, you may want to use a brightly colored lure with a lot of movement to help catch the halibut's attention.
Ultimately, the best technique for using lures to catch California halibut will depend on a variety of factors, including the time of day, the weather conditions, and the location you are fishing in. With practice and experimentation, you can develop a technique that works best for you.
What is the best time of day to use lures for catching halibut in California?
The best time of day to use lures for catching halibut in California can vary based on a few different factors. Generally, many experienced anglers recommend early mornings or late afternoons as the most productive times for halibut fishing. This is because during these times, the water temperatures tend to be cooler and the fish may be more active and feeding. Additionally, the low light conditions can make it easier for the halibut to spot and strike at lures or bait. However, it's important to note that weather patterns, tide changes, and other environmental factors can also impact the best time of day to fish for halibut. As such, it's always a good idea to do some research on the specific area you plan to fish and talk to local experts or other anglers to get the most up-to-date information on the best times and techniques for catching halibut.
What is the ideal size of lures to use for California halibut fishing?
The ideal size of lures to use for California halibut fishing can vary depending on a variety of factors such as water conditions, time of year, and the specific location you are fishing. However, in general, a good range for lure size is between 3-6 inches.
It is important to note that the color and design of the lure can also impact its effectiveness. Natural colors that mimic the prey of the halibut such as sandworms, shrimp, and small fish are often successful. Additionally, lures with a realistic swimming action can also entice the halibut to strike.
When selecting a lure size, it is important to consider the weight of the lure as well. Heavy lures may be necessary in rougher water conditions or when fishing in deeper water. Lighter lures may be more appropriate for shallow water fishing.
Ultimately, the ideal size of lures for California halibut fishing will depend on a variety of factors and may require some experimentation to find what works best in a specific location and conditions.