WikiCatch
Pacific cod

Pacific cod

Gadus macrocephalus

Family
Gadidae
Max Length
119 cm
Max Weight
22.7 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
saltwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
51

Overview

The Pacific cod is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Gadidae. It is a bottom-dwelling fish found in the northern Pacific Ocean, mainly on the continental shelf and upper slopes, to depths of about 900 m (3,000 ft). It can grow to a length of a meter or so and is found in large schools. They feed on clams, worms, crabs, shrimp, and juvenile fish. It is an important commercial food species and is also known as gray cod or grey cod, and grayfish or greyfish. Fishing for this species is regulated with quotas being allotted for hook and line fishing, pots, and bottom trawls. Fossils have been found in Canada near a Steller Sea lion fossil dating to the Pleistocene.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Herring

    Cut herring works well, use a circle hook.

  • Squid

    A very effective bait, readily available.

  • Shrimp

    Peeled shrimp on a jig head is effective.

  • Clams

    Good alternative when other baits are scarce.

Artificial Lures

  • Buzz Bomb JigJig

    Silver or glow colors work well.

    Buy
  • Crippled Herring SpoonSpoon

    Use with a slow jigging motion.

    Buy
  • Cod Teaser Rig with Berkley Gulp! GrubSoft Plastic

    White or chartreuse colors are productive.

    Buy
  • P-Line Laser Minnow JigJig

    Cast and retrieve, or jig vertically.

    Buy

Techniques

When fishing for Pacific cod, target rocky bottom structure in deeper water and use a slow, deliberate jigging motion to entice strikes.

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Where to Find Pacific cod

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Pacific cod?+

Popular baits for Pacific cod include Herring, Squid, Shrimp, Clams, Buzz Bomb Jig. Tip: When fishing for Pacific cod, target rocky bottom structure in deeper water and use a slow, deliberate jigging motion to entice strikes.

Where can I catch Pacific cod?+

Pacific cod can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Alaska, United States; British Columbia, Canada; Ontario, Canada. WikiCatch lists 51 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Pacific cod get?+

Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) can reach up to 119.000006 cm in length and 22.7 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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