Native American languages * Native American nations * Native American art

Native American Halibut Mythology

Halibut are a mythologically important fish to many tribes of the Pacific Northwest. In the creation myths of some Kwakiutl tribes, their first ancestor was transformed from a halibut into a man. To the Haida, halibut are a symbol of prosperity. Potlatch dishes are frequently carved in the shape of a halibut. Some Native Alaskan fishermen make a special offering of the first halibut they catch each season, similar to how it is done for salmon.

Sponsored Links


Halibut is used as a clan crest in some Northwest Coast tribes, and can sometimes be found carved on totem poles.

Native American Legends About Halibuts

*Raven Brings Man Halibut:
    Southeast Alaskan legend about how the people were given halibut to fish.

Recommended Books of Halibut Stories from Native American Myth and Legend
Our organization earns a commission from any book bought through these links

A Story as Sharp as a Knife:
    Good collection of Haida mythology, including the legend of the Halibut People.



Back to spirit animal stories
Back to Native American characters
Back to American legends



American Indian words and names * Indian heritage society * Atakapa Indians * Cherokee name * Tattoo meanings

Would you like to help support our organization's work with endangered American Indian languages?

Native Languages of the Americas website © 1998-2020 * Contacts and FAQ page