Ling
Molva molva
Guide seasonSpring (Mar–May), Summer (Jun–Aug)
Ling is an elongated deep-water fish often associated with wrecks and rocky structures. The species has firm, white flesh and is fished with deep-water tackle.
Quick facts
Regions in this guide
Fishing techniques
- Deep-water bottom fishing with natural bait (mackerel, herring)
- Wreck fishing with heavy tackle
- Deep-water jigging with large pirk jigs
Recommended equipment
- 50--80 lb boat rod with heavy multiplier reel or electric reel
- Pirk jigs 400--800 g for deep-water fishing
- Braided line 0.40--0.60 mm -- strong leader for wreck fishing
Fishing camps targeting ling
27 camps in Norway list ling as a target species.
- Hemmingodden LodgeLofoten
- Adventure Senja (Skrolsvik Kystferie)Senja
- Senja Arctic LodgeSenja
- Sandbakken FeriesenterSenja
- Risøyhamn SjøhusVesterålen
- Offersøy FeriesenterVesterålen
- Sørvær HavfiskeFinnmark
- Hasvik Hotel (Big Fish Adventure)Finnmark
- Frøya HavfiskecampTrøndelag
- Camp AndvikaTrøndelag
- Hitra Fishing VacationTrøndelag
- Titran Rorbuer og HavfiskesenterTrøndelag
- MausundglöttTrøndelag
- Hitra Turistservice - HavfisketurerTrøndelag
- Gurvikdal HavfiskesenterTrøndelag
- Smøla HavfiskesenterTrøndelag
- Rønsholmen BryggerTrøndelag
- Vega BryggeHelgeland
- Herøy BryggeHelgeland
- Sotra RorbusenterBergen / Vestland
- Tysnes FiskeguideBergen / Vestland
- Skudeneshavn 182 Fish CampRogaland
- Kvitsøy Maritime SenterRogaland
- Lauklines KystferieTromsø
- Skarnsundet FjordsenterTrøndelag
- TuvsjyenNordland
- FurrehytterRogaland
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best ling fishing in Norway?
The guide covers western Norway, Rogaland, Nordland and Helgeland. These are indicative regions, not a ranking or catch guarantee. Use local advice and nautical charts around deep structures.
What equipment do you need for ling fishing?
Ling fishing requires heavy tackle: 50--80 lb rod, heavy multiplier reel (preferably electric) and pirk jigs of 400--800 g. Braided line of 0.40--0.60 mm is needed to feel bites at great depths. A good fish finder to locate structures is essential.
When is the best season for ling fishing?
This guide uses spring and summer as indicative seasons. Availability varies by area, year, weather and local conditions.
Source
Source
Regulations for recreational sea fishing including minimum sizes (accessed 2026-03-05)
Institute of Marine Research species profile for ling (accessed 2026-03-05)