Alaska Halibut History—the latest installment in James Mackovjak’s Alaska fisheries series—chronicles one of the grandest and most storied fisheries in the region. Following Alaska Codfish Chronicle and Alaska Herring History, Mackovjak tells the story of the flatfish that has long been a favorite among chefs globally. A staple in the diet of many Native populations, the halibut has also played a key role in Indigenous mythology across the northern Pacific region. Tracing the evolution of Alaska’s halibut fishery over time, Mackovjak reveals the cultural, economic, and environmental impact of halibut fishing in Alaska and the fish’s vital role in commercial, sport, and subsistence fishing within the state.

Mackovjak considers the organization and chronology of halibut fishery as well as the various factors that have affected fishery management over the years, such as bycatch (the unintentional or incidental taking of halibut in other fisheries), guided sportfishing, fishermen’s unionization, technological and environmental changes, and major world events. Through detailed analysis and exploration of government reports and fisheries publications, Alaska’s Halibut History offers a glimpse into the development of the modern-day halibut fishery and the nuances of and challenges behind providing the fish so often seen on a menu. It is an indispensable work for anyone interested in the halibut and fishing in the northern Pacific region.

James Mackovjak has been involved with Alaska’s fisheries since he first arrived in Alaska in 1969, working as a commercial fisherman and operating a small fish-processing business in Gustavus, in Southeast Alaska. His books include Aleutian Freighter: A History of Shipping in the Aleutian Islands Area (winner of the Independent Publisher book award), Alaska Salmon Traps, Alaska Herring History, and Alaska Codfish Chronicle. In 2013, Mackovjak received the Alaska Historical Society’s Pathfinder Award.