Known as strong, active fish, pollocks are found primarily in the northern Atlantic Ocean. They can be caught by bottom fishing, drift fishing, fly fishing, saltwater trolling, spin casting, and still fishing. These fish are so strong, they’ve been known to pull unprepared anglers overboard.
Habitat: Bay, Ocean
How to identify Pollock
There are several species of Pollock worldwide. The two most common Pollock species in North America include the Atlantic Pollock and Alaska pollock, with the Atlantic Pollock the more common of the two.
The pollock is a member of the cod family. Its coloring is light green to greenish brown with lighter green or gray on the sides. Its lower jaw sticks out farther than the top jaw. It has a forked tail, and a straight line on each side of its body. Pollocks have a barbell on their chin, which they use to find food.
Where to catch Pollock
Atlantic Pollock are found on both sides of the northern Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Pollock is plentiful in the U.S., north of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in waters from 200 to 300 feet deep. It is typically found near the surface, traveling in large, schools. Juvenile pollock are found in shallow coastal waters where they feed on smaller fish.
Alaska pollock inhabits coastal areas of the Northern Pacific.
The following are habitats where you can catch Pollock:
- Coastal Waters
- Deep Shore Water
- Jetties and Breakers
- Ripples, Currents, Swirls and Sprays
- Rivers and Streams
- Schools
- Small Pointed Waves
- Undercut Banks
How to catch Pollock
Pollocks are very active and strong. They are known for snatching their prey and dragging them down into the water column, so anglers may want to bring good fishing boots to help add extra weight. The best times to fish for pollocks are at dawn or dusk. Look for these fish in rocky areas. The best method for catching them is jigging from a kayak or the shore. Other potentially successful methods include bottom fishing, drift fishing, fly fishing, saltwater trolling, spin casting, and still fishing.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Pollock:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Pollock
Clams, worms, herring, or shrimp are preferred bait for catching the pollock. Lures, plugs, flies or spinners can also be used. Norwegian style jigs in the 10 to 20 ounce ranges tipped with pieces of squid has proven effecttive. Bottom rigs baited with squid, clams, sea worms or pieces of fish will also get Pollock to bite.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Pollock:
