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Haddock

Melanogrammus aeglefinus

Typical weight1–4 kg
Norwegian record14 kg
Best seasonSpring (Mar–May), Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Haddock belongs to the cod family and is easily identified by its dark lateral line and characteristic "thumbprint" mark behind the gills. It is a bottom-dwelling species preferring sandy and muddy bottoms at 40--300 m depth. Haddock is one of Norway's most important food fish and can exceed 10 kg, but typical catch size is 1--4 kg.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Melanogrammus aeglefinus
Typical weight
1–4 kg
Norwegian record
14 kg
Best season
Spring (Mar–May), Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Export quota
15 kg

Minimum sizes

ZoneMin. sizeEffective
Nord for 62°N (North of 62°N)40 cm2021-05-01
Sør for 62°N (South of 62°N)32 cm2026-01-01

Best regions

FinnmarkTromsøNordlandLofotenTrøndelag

Fishing techniques

  • Bottom fishing with natural bait (herring, shrimp, sandworm)
  • Jigging near the bottom
  • Light bottom fishing with paternoster rig

Recommended equipment

  • 20--30 lb boat rod (7 ft) with multiplier reel
  • Pirk jigs 100--300 g or paternoster rig with bait
  • Braided line 0.20--0.35 mm with fluorocarbon leader

Fishing camps targeting haddock

77 camps in Norway list haddock as a target species.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between haddock and cod?
Haddock is generally smaller than cod and has a darker lateral line and a characteristic black mark behind the gills. Haddock prefers softer bottoms (sand/mud) while cod also hunts over rocky ground. Haddock has milder, slightly sweeter flesh than cod.
When is the best season for haddock fishing?
Spring, summer, and autumn (April--October) offer the best haddock fishing. Haddock is most active when water temperature is 4--10°C. In Northern Norway, the summer months are especially productive with long days and active feeding.
What bait is best for haddock?
Natural bait is most effective for haddock. Herring, shrimp, and sandworm are the best choices. Haddock can also be caught on small pirk jigs and rubber shads, but generally responds better to bait than cod does.

Source

Source

Regulations for recreational sea fishing including minimum sizes (accessed 2026-03-08)

Institute of Marine Research species profile for haddock (accessed 2026-03-08)

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