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Atlantic Cod

Gadus morhua

A cold-water North Atlantic groundfish with major historical and commercial importance.

Saltwater
Atlantic Cod reference image
Wilhelm Thomas Fiege, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

  • Three dorsal fins and two anal fins.
  • Chin barbel.
  • Pale lateral line and mottled body.

Habitat

cold continental shelf waters, rocky bottoms, wrecks, and offshore banks

Bait notes

jigs, clams, cut bait, squid, and bottom rigs

Behavior

feeds near bottom on fish, crabs, shrimp, and worms

Caution

Marine size, season, bag, and reporting rules can change; verify official local regulations.

Fishing notes

cod regulations can be strict and change by stock area