Lingcod

<p><strong>Oceans &amp; Range:</strong> Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Alaska south to Baja California. Most abundant from Washington State south to Central California. Found over rocky reefs, underwater pinnacles, and hard bottom in 10–1,400 feet. A top predator of the Pacific Northwest rocky reef ecosystem — voracious and not particularly selective about lures or bait.</p>
<p><strong>Preferred Water Temperature:</strong> 38°F–55°F. A cold-water Pacific species found over rocky structure. Moves to shallower water in winter to spawn; retreats to deeper reefs in summer. Ambush predators that lie motionless on or near the bottom waiting for prey.</p>
<p><strong>Size &amp; Weight:</strong> Typical catches are 5–20 lbs. Trophy fish reach 60+ lbs. World record: 69 lbs 1 oz. A large-mouthed, mottled brown predator with impressive canine teeth. Notable for having blue or green flesh — perfectly fine to eat and turns white when cooked. Outstanding eating — large, firm white fillets. Minimum size and bag limits apply.</p>
<p><strong>Best Lures:</strong> Large swimbaits (6–10 inch) in white, chartreuse, or natural colors are the top producer — work them slowly near the bottom with occasional hops. Large leadhead jigs with swimbaits produce consistent action. Copper pipe jigs (heavy, compact jigs) produce in deep water. Large Berkley Gulp! swimbaits with scent are very effective.</p>
<p><strong>Best Baits:</strong> Large live or fresh-dead rockfish are outstanding natural bait. Fresh whole herring are excellent. Large live smelt work well. Fresh whole squid produce good results. Live or fresh-dead greenling are effective in the Pacific Northwest. Lingcod will attack and hold any large prey — the "Lingcod kiss" where they grab a hooked rockfish being reeled up is a common way to catch them.</p>