Lingcod Fishing Charters
Ophiodon elongatus
Lingcod is a prehistoric-looking predator that is one of the top targets on Pacific Coast party boats from California to Alaska. These aggressive, toothy fish are ambush predators that produce dramatic strikes and hard fights.
- Party boats
- 19
- States
- 3
About Lingcod
Party boats target Lingcod over rocky reefs, pinnacles, and kelp edges in depths of 60 to 300 feet. Large swimbaits, heavy jigs, and live bait fished near the bottom are effective. Lingcod are known to attack hooked rockfish on the way up, creating surprise double hookups that are a party boat tradition.
The fight is powerful and straightforward. Lingcod hit hard and use their weight to resist being pulled up from the bottom. They make short, powerful surges and head shakes rather than long runs. Fish commonly run 5 to 15 pounds, with trophy fish exceeding 30 pounds. A big lingcod is one of the most impressive catches on any West Coast party boat trip.
Quick Facts
- Size range
- 5 to 30 lbs
- Habitat
- Rocky Reefs/Pinnacles
- Fight
- Strong
- Edibility
- Excellent
