Monkfish
Lophius piscatorius
Guide seasonSummer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Monkfish is a bottom-dwelling ambush predator with an enormous mouth that uses a "fishing rod" on its head to lure prey. It is found at 20--600 m depth on sandy and muddy bottoms. Monkfish is rarely targeted by sport fishers but may be caught as bycatch during bottom fishing. The tail meat is used as food.
Quick facts
Regions in this guide
Fishing techniques
- Bottom fishing with large bait (whole mackerel or herring)
- Deep-water fishing with heavy bottom rigs
Recommended equipment
- 30--50 lb boat rod with heavy multiplier reel
- Large circle hooks (8/0--10/0) with wire trace
- Braided line 0.35--0.50 mm -- heavy leader for sharp teeth
Fishing camps targeting monkfish
5 camps in Norway list monkfish as a target species.
Frequently asked questions
Can you target monkfish specifically?
Monkfish may occur as bycatch during bottom fishing. This guide cannot substantiate a particular depth, bait or time as “best”; use species sources and local advice.
Why is monkfish so popular as food?
Monkfish tail meat is firm and white and is used as food. Taste, value and the label “delicacy” are subjective and are not treated as factual rankings in this guide.
Where do you find monkfish in Norway?
The guide covers Bergen/Vestland, Rogaland, Nordland, Helgeland and Trøndelag. These are indicative regions, not evidence of local density or catch probability.
Source
Source
Regulations for recreational sea fishing (accessed 2026-03-05)
Institute of Marine Research species profile for monkfish (accessed 2026-03-05)