Red Hake Fishing Charters

Red Hake, also known as squirrel hake or ling, is a soft-fleshed bottom fish caught on party boats in the Northeast from Connecticut to Maine. While not the most glamorous catch, Red Hake are cooperative biters that provide steady action during winter months.

Party boats catch Red Hake over muddy and sandy bottoms in depths of 50 to 300 feet. Clams, squid, and cut bait on bottom rigs are the standard approach. Hake are aggressive feeders that often bite right away, making them reliable action when other species are slow.

Red Hake are modest fighters that pull with their weight rather than speed. Most fish run 1 to 3 pounds, with larger fish reaching 5 to 6 pounds. They are often part of a mixed bag with cod, pollock, and other bottom species.

The eating quality is underrated. Red Hake has soft, white flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The fillets need to be cooked promptly as the flesh is delicate and does not hold up as well as firmer fish. Pan-fried in butter or baked with breadcrumbs, fresh Red Hake is a tasty meal.