FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Hooked on Halibut: 2025 Bonus Tags, New Limits, and Legendary Catches at Waterfall Resort
If halibut is on your bucket list—or if it’s already your favorite catch—Waterfall Resort Alaska is the place to be. With the return of our coveted Bonus Halibut Tag program the chances to join the ranks of those who’ve landed giants is at an all-time high and this summer is shaping up to be unforgettable for saltwater anglers of every skill level.
The Bonus Halibut Tag Advantage
One of the most exciting things about fishing at Waterfall is the chance to double your halibut haul with our Bonus Halibut Tag program. Each tag allows you to retain one additional halibut, of any size—something you simply can’t do under standard charter fishing regulations in Alaska. Normally, anglers are allowed just one halibut per day, and only within strict size limitations. Bonus Tags open up the playing field.
Guests may purchase one tag, unused tags roll over to the next day, giving anglers flexibility as they target halibut throughout their stay. Even better, these tags can be shared among friends on the same boat, making them a favorite for group trips and family adventures.
Because these tags are tied to a limited lease of commercial quota, we always encourage guests to reserve them when they book—availability is first-come, first-served, and they go quickly every season. They cost $600 per tag.
2025 Halibut Regulations
The International Pacific Halibut Commission has released the 2025 Halibut limits.
- One fish daily.
- No annual limit.
- Halibut between 37 inches and 80 inches must be released.
- Tuesday Closures: Halibut may not be retained on Tuesdays during the 2025 season (except with GAF tags).
- One Party Per Day Rule: For 2025, due to a Federal Regulation change for conservation purposes to help build stock for future seasons, and due to each boat having their own unique Federal halibut permit number, only one group per day may now target halibut. To accommodate this rule on our partial days, we will only fish for halibut on departure mornings and target salmon or other species on arrival afternoons.
You can check out all of the updated limits here: 2025 Fishing Chart & Limits
Why We’re Obsessed with Halibut
It’s no secret that halibut are one of Alaska’s most prized catches. First, they’re incredibly fun to catch. Their powerful, steady resistance can make you feel like you’ve hooked the bottom of the ocean—until your line starts moving. They’re also impressively sized. It's not too uncommon to see guests bring in halibut over 100 pounds. Some even hit the 200-pound mark, which is a full-body workout and a serious thrill.
Of course, beyond the sport, there’s the flavor. Halibut is beloved for its lean, flaky meat and mild taste, which lends itself to a range of recipes—from grilled filets and fish tacos to creamy chowders and seared steaks. It freezes beautifully too, making it a perfect fish to bring home and enjoy for months.
Legendary Catches at Waterfall Resort
Over the years, Waterfall Resort has seen its fair share of unforgettable halibut. Our all-time record stands at an eye-popping 366.8 pounds—a true leviathan of the deep. More recently, in 2024, guest Michael Schunk of Las Vegas took home top honors with a 239.4-pound fish.
In previous seasons, several anglers have hooked and released halibut in the 200-pound range, including Hunter Aguilera, Dane Lucas, and Michael Clow, adding their names to the growing legacy of epic catches at the resort. For many, it’s not just about the fight or the weight—it’s about being part of something unforgettable, and sharing that story with friends and family for years to come.
From Dock to Dinner: Halibut Recipes Worth Repeating
At Waterfall Resort, we believe the experience shouldn’t end at the dock. After your fish are professionally cleaned, vacuum-sealed, and flash-frozen, they’re ready for the kitchen. Our culinary team loves to share simple but unforgettable ways to prepare your catch.
One guest favorite is pan-seared halibut with lemon-caper butter—a straightforward recipe that lets the flavor of the fish shine. Just sear your seasoned filet in olive oil until golden, then melt a little butter in the pan, stir in capers and fresh lemon juice, and spoon the sauce over the top.
Another go-to is halibut tacos with chipotle slaw. Grill your halibut, flake it into warm tortillas, and top it with a crunchy slaw made from cabbage, chipotle mayo, lime juice, and cilantro. It’s a fast, flavorful way to make your catch the star of the table.
Your 2025 Adventure Awaits
With generous halibut limits through the Bonus Tag program, flexible fishing options, and the opportunity to land a truly memorable fish, 2025 is your year to experience halibut fishing at its finest. Whether you’re chasing your personal best or just looking to fill your freezer with world-class fillets, Waterfall Resort is ready to deliver the adventure.
To reserve your Bonus Halibut Tags and secure your trip call us at 800-544-5125.
And don’t forget—if you land a giant or cook up a masterpiece at home, send your photos to fish@waterfallresort.com. You might just end up featured in our next newsletter.
Let's go fishing!