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Saithe (Coalfish)

Pollachius virens

Typical weight1–8 kg
Norwegian record23.4 kg
Best seasonSummer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov), Spring (Mar–May)

Saithe is one of the most common and reliable species along the Norwegian coast. It is perfect for beginners due to its aggressive feeding and willingness to take lures and jigs. Saithe is found in large schools from the surface to deep water. Young saithe (sei-mort, under 1 kg) often school near the surface in harbours and off rocks, while mature fish of 3--15 kg inhabit deeper waters along the coast and over subsea banks.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Pollachius virens
Typical weight
1–8 kg
Norwegian record
23.4 kg
Best season
Summer (Jun–Aug), Autumn (Sep–Nov), Spring (Mar–May)
Export quota
15 kg

Best regions

LofotenNordlandBergen / VestlandRogalandTromsøHelgeland

Fishing techniques

  • Jigging with pirk and rubber shads from boat
  • Spin fishing from shore with spoons, spinners, or jigs
  • Trolling with deep-running lures along banks and edges

Recommended equipment

  • 20--40 lb boat rod (7 ft) with multiplier or spinning reel
  • Pirk jigs 100--300 g for boat fishing, lures 20--60 g for shore fishing
  • Braided line 0.18--0.30 mm with fluorocarbon leader

Fishing camps targeting saithe (coalfish)

93 camps in Norway list saithe (coalfish) as a target species.

Frequently asked questions

Is saithe a good fish for beginners?
Yes, saithe is one of the best species for beginners in Norway. It is found in large schools, bites aggressively on most lures and jigs, and can be caught from both boats and shore. Young saithe are easy to catch from piers and rocks in summer.
When is the best time for saithe fishing?
Saithe can be caught year-round, but the best periods are May to October. Large saithe (3--15 kg) are most active in deeper waters during summer and autumn. Small saithe (sei-mort) are available from piers and nearshore from June to September.
How big can saithe get?
Saithe can exceed 20 kg, with the Norwegian record around 23 kg. Typical catches are 1--8 kg. Fish over 10 kg are considered large saithe and are most often found in deeper waters along the edge of subsea banks and in strong current areas.

Source

Source

Regulations for recreational sea fishing including minimum sizes for saithe (accessed 2026-03-08)

Institute of Marine Research species profile for saithe (accessed 2026-03-08)

Regulations and quota information sourced from the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries. Rules may change — always verify current rules at fiskeridir.no.