Massachusetts · North Shore
COD FISHING
IN GLOUCESTER
Gloucester is an outstanding destination for cod fishing, with peak season in January, February, November and good catches in March, April. Book a charter and target cod with local experts.
About Cod Fishing in Gloucester
Atlantic cod is a historic New England species that shaped the region's culture and economy. Found over rocky bottom and wrecks, cod fishing peaks in the colder months when these bottom dwellers move into accessible depths on Stellwagen Bank and other nearshore grounds.
Atlantic Cod are the historic fish that built New England — the species that drew European settlers to the New World and fueled a fishing industry for centuries. These cold-water bottom fish are found over rocky substrate, wrecks, and ledges, primarily in winter and spring when water temperatures drop. Cod have a mottled brown-green body with a prominent chin barbel and three dorsal fins. Their firm, flaky white flesh is considered some of the finest eating fish in the world and remains a staple of New England cuisine.
Scientific name: Gadus morhua
Cod Seasonal Calendar — Gloucester
Month-by-month availability for cod in Gloucester, MA.
How to Catch Cod in Gloucester
Techniques & Bait
Bottom fishing with diamond jigs (8-16 oz) bounced on rocky bottom in 60-200+ feet of water is the traditional technique. Tipping the jig with a strip of squid, clam, or fish belly increases effectiveness. Baited cod rigs (high-low rigs with size 6/0-8/0 hooks baited with clams, squid, or cut fish) fished on the bottom over wrecks and rocky structure produce consistent catches. Jigging with Norwegian-style cod jigs and butterfly jigs is effective in strong current. Fish Stellwagen Bank, Jeffreys Ledge, and deep-water wrecks for the best action.
Recommended Tackle
Medium-heavy to heavy conventional rod (5'6"-6'6"), loaded with 40-65 lb braid, 50-80 lb fluorocarbon leader. Heavy diamond jigs or cod rigs with 8-16 oz sinkers. The depth and current dictate weight needs.
Best Nearshore Fishing Spots in Gloucester
Top spots where local captains target cod and other nearshore species.
Stellwagen Bank
Stellwagen Bank is a massive underwater plateau in Massachusetts Bay, roughly 25 miles from Gloucester, where the shallow bank rises from surrounding depths to create one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the North Atlantic. Cod, haddock, pollock, and bluefin tuna are the primary targets over the bank's sandy and gravel bottom. The bank is also a designated National Marine Sanctuary and a world-famous whale-watching destination.
Rockport Reefs
The nearshore reefs and ledges off Rockport on Cape Ann's eastern shore provide excellent bottom-fishing for cod, pollock, cunner, and tautog over hard structure. The rocky reefs extend from Halibut Point south through Rockport Harbor, creating a chain of fish-holding habitat close to shore. Small-boat anglers jig and bait-fish the reefs for consistent catches of groundfish during spring and fall seasons.
Eastern Point Lighthouse Area
The waters surrounding Eastern Point Lighthouse at the entrance to Gloucester Harbor feature submerged ledge, boulders, and a breakwater that attract striped bass, bluefish, mackerel, and pollock. The Dogbar Breakwater extending from Eastern Point is a popular shore-fishing location, and the adjacent deep water holds schools of fish pushed by tidal currents. The area is particularly productive during the fall migration when false albacore and bonito pass through.
Thacher Island Passage
Thacher Island sits off Rockport's coast, and the passage between the island and the mainland creates a tidal funnel that attracts striped bass, bluefish, pollock, and mackerel. The island's twin lighthouses mark a historic fishing ground where currents concentrate baitfish around the island's rocky perimeter. Boat anglers troll and jig the passage during moving tides for action on multiple species simultaneously.
Other Species in Gloucester
More fish you can target while visiting Gloucester.
Cod Fishing in Gloucester — FAQ
The peak months for Cod fishing in Gloucester are January, February, November, December. During these months, Cod are most active and abundant in the Gloucester area.
Cod fishing charters in Gloucester are typically nearshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Bottom fishing with diamond jigs (8-16 oz) bounced on rocky bottom in 60-200+ feet of water is the traditional technique. Tipping the jig with a strip of squid, clam, or fish belly increases effectiveness. Baited cod rigs (high-low rigs with size 6/0-8/0 hooks baited with clams, squid, or cut fish) fished on the bottom over wrecks and rocky structure produce consistent catches. Jigging with Norwegian-style cod jigs and butterfly jigs is effective in strong current. Fish Stellwagen Bank, Jeffreys Ledge, and deep-water wrecks for the best action.
No — when you book a charter in Gloucester, your captain provides all required Massachusetts fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Cod regulations in Massachusetts include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Cod in Gloucester, you may also catch Striped Bass, Bluefin Tuna, Bluefish, Fluke, Porgy. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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