Massachusetts · North Shore
COD FISHING
IN NEWBURYPORT
Newburyport is a solid destination for cod fishing, with good fishing in January, February, November, December. Book a charter and target cod with local experts.
About Cod Fishing in Newburyport
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 — Newburyport
Month-by-month availability for cod in Newburyport, MA.
How to Catch Cod in Newburyport
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 Newburyport
Top spots where local captains target cod and other nearshore species.
Plum Island Surf
Plum Island's nine-mile Atlantic beach offers outstanding surf-casting for striped bass, bluefish, and false albacore along a wild, undeveloped barrier island. The beach's sand bar and trough system concentrates migrating fish during the spring and fall runs, with some of the best surf-fishing in Massachusetts. The island's position at the Merrimack River mouth means nutrient-rich outflow attracts baitfish to the nearshore zone.
Merrimack River Mouth
The Merrimack River mouth where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean is a dynamic nearshore environment where freshwater outflow meets ocean currents. Striped bass, bluefish, and false albacore converge at the river mouth feeding on herring, menhaden, and sand eels pushed by the outflow. The jetties flanking the river mouth provide shore-based access to deep, fast-moving water that holds trophy-class stripers.
Newburyport Jetties
The north and south jetties at the Merrimack River inlet are massive stone structures that create prime nearshore fishing habitat where river and ocean currents collide. Striped bass, bluefish, mackerel, and pollock hold in the turbulent water along the jetty rocks, feeding on baitfish pinned against the structure. The south jetty on Plum Island is particularly popular with shore anglers who cast plugs and jigs into the rip formed at the jetty's tip.
Halibut Point (Pigeon Cove)
Halibut Point at the northern tip of Cape Ann is a rocky granite headland where deep water meets the shore, attracting striped bass, pollock, and mackerel to the boulder-strewn nearshore zone. The point's exposed position catches strong currents that sweep baitfish along the rock ledges, drawing predators close to shore. Shore anglers cast from the granite outcrops into productive water only a few rod-lengths away.
Other Species in Newburyport
More fish you can target while visiting Newburyport.
Cod Fishing in Newburyport — FAQ
Cod fishing in Newburyport is productive during January, February, November, December.
Cod fishing charters in Newburyport 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 Newburyport, 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 Newburyport, you may also catch Striped Bass, Bluefin Tuna, Bluefish, Tautog, Black Sea Bass. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
Ready to Catch Cod in Newburyport?
Compare verified charter captains, check availability, and book your cod fishing trip today.
Get Charter Quotes