Nearshore

Cod

Gadus morhua

Avg. Weight

15.0 lbs

Avg. Length

19+ inches

World Record

98.8 lbs

Found In

8 Destinations

About Cod

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.

Identification & Appearance

Elongated body, mottled brown-green to gray-green with small spots on the sides. Light-colored lateral line. Prominent single chin barbel. Three separate dorsal fins and two anal fins. Large head and mouth. The belly is lighter, often cream to white.

Male vs. Female

Males and females are identical in appearance. Females grow slightly larger on average. Cod can live 20+ years but most fish caught today are younger.

Size, Weight & Records

Average catch is 5-15 lbs. Quality cod ("market cod") run 15-30 lbs. Trophy fish exceed 40 lbs. The world record is 98 lbs 12 oz, caught in New Hampshire in 1969. Fish over 30 lbs are increasingly rare due to historic overfishing.

Seasonal Availability

Peak Season Good Fair Off Season

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Popular Bait & Fishing Methods

Best Techniques

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.

Regulations & Bag Limits

Cod are heavily regulated due to depleted stocks. Seasonal closures are common (often April-September in many areas). Size limits of 19-22 inches. Low bag limits of 5-10 fish depending on area and season. Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank have different regulations. Check NOAA and state regulations carefully.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current rules with your charter captain or state wildlife agency before fishing.