Pollack
Pollachius pollachius
Guide seasonSummer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Pollack belongs to the cod family and resembles saithe, but has a prominent lower jaw and a dark lateral line that curves downwards. The Institute of Marine Research describes rocky coastal habitats, often at 40–100 m depth, and a distribution extending to northern Norway. It feeds on fish and crustaceans.
Quick facts
Regions in this guide
Fishing techniques
- Lure fishing/jigging near reefs and kelp
- Trolling with lures along the coast
- Light jigging with rubber shads and lures
Recommended equipment
- 10--20 lb spinning rod (7--9 ft) with fixed spool reel
- Rubber shads 10--40 g and lures in natural colours
- Braided line 0.15--0.25 mm with fluorocarbon leader
Fishing camps targeting pollack
22 camps in Norway list pollack as a target species.
- Saltstraumen BryggeNordland
- Loppa SeafishingFinnmark
- Frøya HavfiskecampTrøndelag
- Hitra Fishing VacationTrøndelag
- Titran Rorbuer og HavfiskesenterTrøndelag
- Veiholmen BryggeTrøndelag
- Sula Rorbuer og HavhotellTrøndelag
- Garten SjøhusTrøndelag
- Bakkan WahlTrøndelag
- Beian BryggeTrøndelag
- Hitra Turistservice - HavfisketurerTrøndelag
- Smøla HavfiskesenterTrøndelag
- Rønsholmen BryggerTrøndelag
- Torghatten CampingHelgeland
- Sotra RorbusenterBergen / Vestland
- Tysnes FiskeguideBergen / Vestland
- Skudeneshavn 182 Fish CampRogaland
- Kvitsøy Maritime SenterRogaland
- Skarnsundet FjordsenterTrøndelag
- Vågan FeriegårdTrøndelag
- FurrehytterRogaland
- Åmøy FjordferieRogaland
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pollack and saithe?
Pollack has a prominent lower jaw and a dark lateral line curving downwards. Saithe has a straighter lateral line and a less pronounced lower jaw. Use these identifying features; colour, size and capture location alone are not reliable.
Where are the best spots for pollack fishing?
The guide covers Bergen/Vestland, Rogaland, Helgeland and Nordland. These are indicative regions, not a ranking or catch guarantee. Use local advice around reefs, kelp and current.
What lures work best for pollack?
Rubber shads and lures imitating small fish are possible methods. Size and retrieve must suit current, depth and equipment; no method guarantees a catch.
Source
Source
Comparison identification: saithe has a straighter lateral line and less pronounced lower jaw. (accessed 2026-10-04)
Regulations for recreational sea fishing including minimum sizes (accessed 2026-09-04)
Institute of Marine Research species profile for pollack (accessed 2026-10-04)