Atlantic Halibut

Montauk, New York, famed for its diverse fishery, also offers a chance at landing Atlantic halibut, though it requires dedication and the right conditions. The halibut grounds are located well offshore, demanding a seaworthy vessel and experienced navigation. Focus your efforts on the deeper canyons and edges where the continental shelf drops off. These areas offer the depth and cooler temperatures that halibut prefer. The best time to target them is typically late spring and early summer, before the water warms up significantly. A good starting point is to look for areas where you see significant bait activity on your sonar. One local tip is to pay attention to the tidal currents; halibut often feed more actively during periods of strong flow. Montauk boasts several marinas with charter options if you're unfamiliar with the area. Remember that halibut fishing here can be unpredictable, but the potential for a memorable catch makes it worthwhile. The local halibut population is relatively scattered, making finding them a rewarding challenge.