Lingcod
Ophiodon elongatus
Also called: ling
A mottled, toothy predator of Pacific rocky reefs and kelp, strong enough to grab a hooked rockfish and hold on.
- Type
- Bottom & Reef Fish
- Typical size
- Typically 5 to 20 lb; large fish over 30 lb
- Range
- The Pacific coast from Alaska to Baja California
- Coasts
- Pacific
- Where
- Reefs, wrecks & jetties
- Best seasons
- Spring through fall, with seasons set by state
Note: Lingcod have teeth and sharp gill plates. Their flesh is sometimes blue-green, which turns white when cooked. Size limits, bag limits, and seasons for this species change often, so check current state and federal rules before you keep one.
How to identify it
- A long, mottled olive-brown body with spots.
- A very large head with a wide mouth.
- Fang-like teeth.
- A long, continuous dorsal fin.
Baits and lures
- Live greenlings and rockfish where legal
- Large swimbaits and plastics
- Big leadhead jigs
Techniques
- Jig large baits along rocky reefs and pinnacles.
- Let a hooked rockfish tempt a lingcod where rules allow.
- Keep a firm hand on the rod, since lingcod fight hard to the boat.
- Use a net or gaff carefully.
Field notes
Lingcod guard nests and are territorial. Many Pacific states set seasons and sizes to protect them.
Related guides
Saltwater size limits, bag limits, seasons, gear rules, and license requirements change often and differ by state and in federal waters. Some species are catch-and-release only or closed in certain areas. Check your state's current fishing regulations before you keep a fish; our state resources directory links to each state's official wildlife and fisheries agency.