Greenland halibut is a flat, saltwater fish highly prized by sport fishermen due to its large size and the quality of its flesh. Although primarily fished for its commercial value, it also attracts sport fishing enthusiasts looking for a challenge. Found in the cold, deep waters of the North Atlantic, it is mainly caught in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and off the North Shore of Quebec. Its fights can be intense, especially when it comes to larger specimens that offer notable resistance. It is important to note that sport fishing for it requires a good understanding of techniques and equipment suited for deep waters.

Greenland halibut has a flat and asymmetrical body, typical of fish in the Pleuronectidae family. Its color varies from dark brown to black on the top, while its belly is lighter, almost white. This camouflage is ideal for hiding on the seafloor. Its mouth is wide with a prominent lower jaw, equipped with sharp teeth adapted for capturing mobile prey. The pectoral fins are small but powerful, and the caudal fin is slightly forked. The scales are small and well integrated, offering a smooth texture to the touch. Young halibuts resemble adults but are often lighter and smaller. Differences between males and females are not easily observable, except during the spawning period when females may be slightly wider due to the eggs.

In Quebec, Greenland halibut is primarily found in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and off the North Shore. It is less abundant in waters further south but can occasionally be found in deeper, colder areas of the sea. Its distribution is influenced by water temperature, preferring environments where the temperature remains between 0 and 6 °C. Due to its preference for deep waters, it is often absent from shallow, warm coastal areas.

Greenland halibut prefers the deep waters of the North Atlantic, often at depths of 200 to 2,000 meters. It favors sandy or muddy seabeds where it can camouflage itself to hunt. Water temperature is a crucial factor for its habitat, with a marked preference for cold waters between 0 and 6 °C. It is often found near continental slopes and underwater plateaus, where currents bring an abundance of food. To fish for it, it is advisable to target these deep and structured areas.

The reproduction of Greenland halibut mainly occurs in winter, with a spawning period that extends from November to March. Females lay up to 100,000 eggs that float in the water column until hatching. The larvae then drift with the currents before settling on the seabed where they transition to a benthic life. Growth is slow, with young reaching sexual maturity around 7 to 10 years. This long life cycle and slow growth make it a species vulnerable to overfishing. Spring → Egg hatching → Summer → Juvenile growth → Fall → Preparation for spawning → Winter → Spawning.

Greenland halibut is primarily solitary, although it may gather in loose groups during spawning or in areas of abundant food. It is not particularly territorial, but it will defend its position if necessary. It is relatively insensitive to changes in light, preferring the dark environments of the depths. Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure have little impact on it due to the depths at which it resides. However, significant disturbances like storms can affect its temporary distribution.

The diet of Greenland halibut varies with age. Young halibuts primarily feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton. As they grow, they become opportunistic predators, feeding on smaller fish such as herring, capelin, and sometimes even other flatfish. They primarily hunt at night, using their camouflage to surprise their prey. In winter, when prey is less abundant, they may reduce their activity and food intake.

Fishing for Greenland halibut is generally more successful in spring and fall when water temperatures are more stable and fish are more active. In summer, fishing may be more challenging due to higher temperatures, although cold depths can still offer good opportunities. In winter, fishing is possible, but difficult weather conditions can make it riskier. The best times to fish are early in the morning and late in the evening when halibut is most active. Cloudy days or those with a light breeze can also improve the chances of success.

To fish for Greenland halibut, shiny metal lures are often effective, especially in clear, deep waters where light is scarce. In murky water, contrasting colors like white and blue can help attract attention. Phosphorescent lures are also a good option for dark environments. In terms of depth, heavy jigs are preferable for reaching the bottoms where halibut is often found.

A sturdy rod, 2.1 to 2.4 meters long, with heavy power and moderate action is ideal for handling the weight of halibuts and heavy sinkers. An open-face or baitcasting reel capable of holding 300 meters of 30 to 50 lb line is recommended. Fluorocarbon leaders of 40 to 60 lb hold up well against halibut's teeth. Circle hooks, size 6/0 to 10/0, are preferable to ensure a good hook set without excessively injuring the fish.

Handle Greenland halibut carefully to avoid injury from its teeth or fins. Use gloves for a better grip. If you wish to release it, avoid taking it completely out of the water and support it properly to minimize stress. For a photo, try to stay close to the water and limit exposure time to air.

The main predators of Greenland halibut are large sharks and orcas. Young halibuts can also fall prey to larger fish like cod. Seabirds, such as seagulls, may target young halibuts near the surface.

In Quebec, Greenland halibut is subject to strict regulations to prevent overfishing. Annual quotas and fishing seasons are in place to ensure its conservation. The release of non-target specimens is encouraged to maintain the population. Fishermen should check local regulations before heading out to sea.