Pollack
Pollachius pollachius
Guide seasonSummer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Pollack is a close relative of saithe but prefers warmer water and has a more southern distribution. It is an active predator hunting small fish and sprat near reefs, kelp forests, and underwater structures. Pollack may take lures and jigs.
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 more golden/brownish colour than saithe and prefers warmer water. Pollack is most common on the west coast and southward, while saithe is found along the entire coast. Pollack has a distinct underbite and hunts more actively near structures.
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
Regulations for recreational sea fishing including minimum sizes (accessed 2026-03-08)
Institute of Marine Research species profile for pollack (accessed 2026-03-08)