Lingcod And Cabizon

Ling Cod in Puget Sound: A Hard-Fighting Fish

Ling cod are a popular recreational fish in Puget Sound. They are known for their large size, hard-fighting nature, and delicious meat. Ling cod are also an important part of the Puget Sound ecosystem, helping to control populations of other fish and invertebrates.

Ling Cod Habitat and Life Cycle

Ling cod are bottom-dwelling fish that prefer rocky reefs and kelp beds. They are found in Puget Sound at depths of 10 to 100 meters (33 to 328 feet). Ling cod are ambush predators that use their camouflage and powerful jaws to catch their prey.

Ling cod spawn in the winter and spring, typically from January to March. Females lay their eggs in clusters on rocky reefs. The eggs are fertilized by the male and then hatch after about 30 days. Ling cod fry remain in the area where they hatched for several months before dispersing to other reefs.

Ling cod grow slowly and can reach a maximum length of over 6 feet and a weight of over 100 pounds. However, most ling cod caught in Puget Sound are smaller, averaging around 2 to 3 feet in length.

Fishing for Ling Cod in Puget Sound

Ling cod can be fished for from shore or from a boat. Popular fishing methods include jigging, baitcasting, and trolling. Ling cod are attracted to a variety of lures, including jigs, swimbaits, and herring.

When fishing for ling cod from shore, it is important to find a spot with rocky structure. Ling cod often hold near rocks and other ambush points. It is also important to use heavy tackle, as ling cod are strong fish that can put up a good fight.

When fishing for ling cod from a boat, it is important to find a spot with rocky reefs or kelp beds. Ling cod can be found at a variety of depths, but they are most often found in waters that are 30 to 50 feet deep.