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Atlantic Cod

Gadus morhua

Guide seasonWinter (Dec–Feb), Spring (Mar–May)

Atlantic cod is a well-known sea-fishing species found along the Norwegian coast. Northeast Arctic cod migrate from the Barents Sea to spawning grounds along the coast; Lofoten and Vesteralen are the main spawning areas from February to April. The species inhabits bottom to mid-depth waters, feeding on herring, capelin, shrimp, and small fish.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Gadus morhua
Guide season
Winter (Dec–Feb), Spring (Mar–May)

Minimum sizes

ZoneMin. sizeEffective
Nord for 62°N og lenger enn fire nautiske mil fra grunnlinjene (North of 62°N, farther than four nautical miles from the baselines)44 cm2026-01-01
Nord for 62°N og innenfor fire nautiske mil av grunnlinjene (North of 62°N, within four nautical miles of the baselines)55 cm2026-01-01
Sør for 62°N (South of 62°N)40 cm2026-01-01

Cod fishing in Lofoten – read the region guide

Regions in this guide

LofotenVesterålenSenjaFinnmarkTromsøNordland

Fishing techniques

  • Jigging with pirk/cod jigs from boat
  • Bottom fishing with natural bait (herring, mackerel, shrimp)
  • Trolling with large spoons

Recommended equipment

  • 30--50 lb boat rod (6--7 ft) with multiplier or jigging reel
  • Pirk jigs 200--500 g (depending on depth and current)
  • Braided line 0.25--0.40 mm with fluorocarbon leader

Fishing camps targeting atlantic cod

106 camps in Norway list atlantic cod as a target species.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best season for cod fishing in Norway?
Northeast Arctic cod mainly spawn from February to April, with Lofoten and Vesterålen as the principal spawning areas. Availability varies by year and location. Coastal cod occur along the coast, but local and national rules must be checked before fishing.
What is the difference between skrei and coastal cod?
Skrei are Northeast Arctic cod that migrate from the Barents Sea to coastal spawning grounds, mainly from February to April. Coastal cod belong to more resident stocks along the coast. These are stock groups, not weight classes.
How much cod can I take home from Norway?
In 2026, travellers aged 12+ may export up to 15 kg of fish up to twice per calendar year. The traveller must both fish and stay through a registered tourist fishing business and carry individual export documentation. The allowance covers sea fish in total, not 15 kg of cod.
What equipment do I need for cod fishing from a boat?
A solid 30--50 lb class boat rod (6--7 ft) with a jigging or multiplier reel is standard. Use braided line (0.25--0.40 mm) and pirk jigs of 200--500 g depending on depth. Bring extra hooks, rubber shads, and natural bait such as shrimp or herring.

Source

Source

Current official minimum sizes, including the two cod zones north of 62 degrees north. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Current export allowance and documentation rules for tourist anglers. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Institute of Marine Research profile: migration, main spawning areas and February-April spawning time. (accessed 2026-08-03)

Season, technique and equipment descriptions are general guidance, not catch guarantees. Confirm local conditions and species rules before fishing.

Regulations and quota information sourced from the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries. Rules may change — always verify current rules at fiskeridir.no.