Haddock
Melanogrammus aeglefinus
Haddock is a North Atlantic cod relative prized for its mild white flesh and distinctive black lateral line. It lives over cold continental shelf bottoms and often forms schools near rough ground where it feeds on small benthic invertebrates and fish.
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Identification points
- Prominent black lateral line running from gill cover to tail
- Distinct dark oval blotch just above the pectoral fin
- Silvery gray body with a paler belly and a small chin barbel
Habitat
Cold temperate North Atlantic shelf waters, especially sandy, gravelly, or mixed bottoms near banks, ledges, and rough ground from shallow coastal areas to deeper offshore waters.
Bait notes
Effective baits include squid strips, clams, mussels, clams, mackerel, sand worms, and small cutfish pieces. Small jigs, teaser rigs, and baited feathers can also work well when schools are active.
Behavior
A schooling demersal fish that feeds on worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish; it often holds just off bottom and can move with temperature and prey shifts.
Caution
No major species-specific hazard, but haddock can contain parasites like other codfish and should be cooked thoroughly; check local regulations and quotas, especially in some Northeast Atlantic fisheries.
Fishing notes
Fish near bottom with light to moderate sinker rigs, high-low or flapper rigs, and short lifts to keep bait just off the seabed. Drift along banks and rough patches, and use smaller hooks and baits when fish are picky.