WikiCatch
Atlantic wolffish

Atlantic wolffish

Anarhichas lupus

Family
Anarhichadidae
Max Length
150 cm
Max Weight
23.6 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
saltwater
Fishing Spots
30

Overview

The Atlantic wolffish, also known as the seawolf, Atlantic catfish, ocean catfish, devil fish, wolf eel, woof or sea cat, is a marine fish of the wolffish family Anarhichadidae, native to the North Atlantic Ocean. The numbers of the Atlantic wolffish in US waters are rapidly being depleted, most likely due to overfishing and bycatch, and it is currently a Species of Concern according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Crabs

    Use green crabs or rock crabs.

  • Mussels

    Crush slightly to release scent.

  • Clams

    Good on rocky bottoms.

  • Shrimp

    Use fresh or frozen shrimp.

Artificial Lures

  • Savage Gear Cutbait HerringSoft Plastic

    Imitates a wounded baitfish.

    Buy
  • Westin Sandy AndySoft Plastic

    Effective jig head presentation.

    Buy
  • Shimano Coltsniper JerkbaitJerkbait

    Works well with jigging technique.

    Buy
  • Abu Garcia Toby SalmoSpoon

    Classic lure for various depths.

    Buy
  • Mustad Dagger JigJig

    Heavy jig for deep water.

    Buy

Techniques

Fish near rocky structures and drop-offs, where wolffish often hide waiting to ambush prey; use a slow retrieve.

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Where to Find Atlantic wolffish

Maine, United States1 spotsAlba / Scotland, United Kingdom1 spotsMichigan, United States1 spotsOntario, Canada1 spotsBasilicata, Italy1 spotsNova Scotia, Canada1 spots
📍 Find spots near me🗺️ Explore on the full map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Atlantic wolffish?+

Popular baits for Atlantic wolffish include Crabs, Mussels, Clams, Shrimp, Savage Gear Cutbait Herring. Tip: Fish near rocky structures and drop-offs, where wolffish often hide waiting to ambush prey; use a slow retrieve.

Where can I catch Atlantic wolffish?+

Atlantic wolffish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Maine, United States; Alba / Scotland, United Kingdom; Michigan, United States. WikiCatch lists 30 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Atlantic wolffish get?+

Atlantic wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) can reach up to 150 cm in length and 23.6 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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