Species guide
How to catch Bastard halibut
Paralichthys olivaceus
The bastard halibut, also known as Japanese or olive flounder, is a prized saltwater game fish found in the Pacific near Asia. It has a fusiform body and can grow up to about one meter long. Juveniles actively hunt small shrimp and fish, feeding on a range of crustaceans and young fishes.
Where they live
Found in Pacific saltwater from shallow 10 meters down to 200 meters depth, mainly around Asia. Prefers environments where it can hunt smaller macrofauna on or near the seafloor.
Typical size
Up to about 103 cm
What they eat
- mysid shrimp
- small crangonid shrimp
- dragonets
- scotter blennies
- gobies
- juvenile fishes
- gammarids
- crabs
Best baits
- shrimp
- small fish strips
- crab pieces
Best lures
- soft plastic jerkbaits
- paddle tail swimbaits
- jigs with trailers
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- drift fishing
- casting near structures
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