Pacific Cod

About this species

A large-headed, chin-barbeled cod of the cold North Pacific, a prized winter food fish in Korea, especially around Jinhae Bay. It feeds near the bottom on fish, crabs and squid over deep, cool grounds. Heavy bottom rigs and jigs baited with squid in deep water are used in winter.

Season

Depth

30 – 400 m

Habitat Spots

Fishing Methods

Bait & Rig

Heavy bottom rigs with squid, fish fillet or shrimp over deep sandy and muddy grounds in winter; large metal jigs are also effective from boats.

Edibility & Taste

Outstanding; versatile mild white flesh ideal for hotpot (daegu-tang), grilled, dried or as sashimi; a centerpiece of Korean winter cuisine.

Similar Species

Alaska pollock (명태, Gadus chalcogrammus) is slimmer with a smaller head and three distinct dorsal fins; Pacific cod is heavier with a prominent chin barbel.

Record Weight

22 kg