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Haddock

Melanogrammus aeglefinus

Guide 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 often found over sandy and muddy bottoms. Haddock is an important food fish in Norway.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Melanogrammus aeglefinus
Guide season
Spring (Mar–May), Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Minimum sizes

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

Regions in this guide

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

85 camps in Norway list haddock as a target species.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between haddock and cod?
Haddock have a dark lateral line and a characteristic dark mark behind the gills. Cod have a paler lateral line. Size, habitat and taste vary and are not reliable identifiers on their own.
When is the best season for haddock fishing?
This guide uses spring, summer and autumn as indicative seasons. Actual availability varies by stock, area, year, weather and local conditions.
What bait is best for haddock?
Natural bait such as herring, shrimp or sandworm and smaller pirk jigs or rubber shads are possible methods. No bait guarantees a catch; follow local advice and gear rules.

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)

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.