Picture this: the midnight sun casting gold across a glassy fjord as your line runs deep, somewhere below, a giant stirs.
You’re perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, surrounded by rugged peaks and the slow, ancient rhythm of Norway’s northern coast. Or maybe you’re further north still, in a quiet harbour town where the sea air carries stories of leviathans landed. The tide rolls in, steady and cold, and you know: this is Halibut country.
In this blog, we’ve brought together our most legendary Halibut destinations in Norway, tried, tested, and memorable, as well as a few lesser-known gems for those who crave the untamed. From the Lofoten Islands to the storm-lashed Finnmark coast, each spot offers more than trophy fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or chasing your first big flatfish, these trips deliver the kind of moments that stay with you: the weight of the strike, the battle in the deep, the stillness after.
Atlantic Halibut are solitary, territorial predators that typically inhabit deep waters, lying in wait on or near the seabed. They favour areas with structure, drop-offs, sandbanks, and rocky outcrops, where they can ambush unsuspecting prey. Their diet is mainly fish based, with Haddock, Coalfish, and Herring topping the menu, though they won’t pass up squid, crabs, or other bottom dwelling creatures. As opportunistic apex predators, they’ll readily strike at anything that looks like an easy meal.
While it’s possible to catch Halibut from the shore in select locations, your best chances lie offshore. From land, large bottom-fished baits, such as whole fish, squid, or mackerel flappers, can be effective. However, boat fishing truly opens the door to serious Halibut action. Drifting with oversized shads, baited jigs, or natural baits like coalfish and herring often yields the most success.
The current rod and line record for Atlantic Halibut stands at an astonishing 500lb plus, caught in the deep waters of Northern Norway. While fish of that size are scarce, catches over 100lb are reported annually, and any Halibut in the 50-100lb range is considered a prized trophy.
Below are some of our top Atlantic Halibut fishing destinations…
Havoysund, Northern Norway
The village of Havøysund in northern Norway is famed for its Halibut fishing and is widely regarded as one of the best destinations in the world to target these mighty flatfish.
The waters around Havøysund are rich with life, providing the perfect hunting grounds for Atlantic Halibut. Anglers fishing here regularly encounter good numbers of fish in the 100lb range, making it a fantastic location to target numbers. These aren’t just fish – they’re battles waiting to happen.
During peak season, the camp is filled with anglers from around the world, all hoping for their shot at a fish of a lifetime. With expert guides, quality boats, and access to some of the most productive grounds in Norway, Havøysund is a must-visit destination for serious sea anglers.
Visit the tour page: Halibut Fishing Havoysund, Norway
Å, lofoten islandS, Northern Norway
The Lofoten Islands in northern Norway are famed for their Halibut fishing and are fast becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in the world to target this legendary flatfish.
Fish of 100lb, 150lb, and even beyond 200lb are landed every season here, and every trip holds the potential for a true giant. In fact, for anglers chasing the ultimate goal—a Halibut over 2 metres in length—there’s no better place in Norway. Thanks to the region’s ideal combination of deep fjords, fast-moving currents, and an abundance of baitfish like coalfish and mackerel, Lofoten consistently produces more of these rare giants than anywhere else in the country. It’s a true mecca for big fish hunters.
Whether you’re fishing with an experienced guide or exploring the marks on a self-drive boat, the opportunities are vast, and the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
Visit the tour page: Å, Lofoten Island, Northern Norway
VESTERÅLEN, Northern Norway
The Vesterålen archipelago in northern Norway is famed for its mixed-species deep-sea fishing and is rapidly becoming one of the premier destinations to target giant Atlantic Halibut.
While trophy-sized Halibut are certainly caught here, Vesterålen is especially famed for its incredible numbers. Anglers regularly enjoy action-packed sessions, with multiple hookups per day and high catch rates throughout the season. Thanks to the ideal mix of structure, depth, and bait-rich currents, it’s one of the most consistent locations in Norway for Halibut fishing, whether you’re hunting that elusive giant or enjoying nonstop sport from hard-fighting mid-sized fish.
Whether you’re out with one of the experienced Nordic Sea Angling guides or taking the helm of a fully equipped self-drive boat, the fishing is as varied as it is exciting, and the dramatic scenery makes every moment on the water unforgettable.
Visit the tour page: Vesterålen, Northern Norway
BIG FISH ADVENTURE, SOROYA Norway
Sorøya Big Fish Adventure is a true angler’s paradise, set in the remote, fish-rich waters of northern Norway. Known as the “Land of the Big Fish,”
Operating from a well-equipped, modern camp, anglers can fish with experienced guides or self-drive rugged Kaasbøll boats, targeting Halibut over 200 lb and Cod pushing 80 lb. The fishing is raw, visual, and thrilling—especially when sight-casting to giant Halibut in clear Arctic water.
From spring Skrei Cod to summer and autumn Halibut, Sorøya delivers year-round action and serious trophy potential. Whether you’re hunting a personal best or soaking in the stunning Norwegian seascapes, every trip promises unforgettable encounters and world-class sportfishing far from the beaten path.
Visit the tour page: Soroya, Northern Norway
Camp Steinfjord, Northern Norway
Camp Steinfjord is an angler’s paradise, offering access to one of Europe’s top sea‑fishing destinations.
As one of Norway’s premier Halibut hotspots, the camp offers anglers the chance to connect with true giants. From May through September, these powerful flatfish patrol the fjords and outer reefs, with fish over 100 lb caught regularly—and monsters exceeding 200 lb not uncommon. Guided or self-driven, the boats are perfectly equipped to explore productive marks in comfort and safety. Each take is explosive, each fight a test of strength and nerve.
The crystal-clear Arctic waters and rugged mountain backdrop deliver a serene wilderness setting, matched only by the intensity of the fishing. This is first-class sea‑fishing in complete solitude—an unrivalled experience set amidst the wild beauty of northern Norway.
Visit the tour page: Camp Steinfjord, Northern Norway
CONTACT US
At Sportquest Holidays, we’ve guided anglers to world-class Halibut fishing adventures in some of the most productive waters on the planet. If this blog has inspired you to start planning your own trip in search of giant Halibut, our team of fishing travel experts is here to help.
Call us on 01603 407596 or email info@sportquestholidays.com to speak with a halibut fishing specialist and begin planning a trip perfectly suited to your goals, experience level, and preferred destination.
