Acadian Redfish

About the Acadian Redfish

Acadian Redfish are striking, typically bright orange to reddish-pink in color, with large eyes adapted for their deep-water environment. Their bodies are somewhat stout and compressed, featuring sharp spines on their dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins, so handle with care. They can grow up to 20 inches, though most caught are smaller, making them an unmistakable and sturdy deep-sea catch.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

These deep-dwelling marine fish inhabit cold, often rocky bottoms, deep ledges, and underwater canyons, typically found at depths ranging from 200 to over 1,500 feet. They prefer areas with structural complexity that offer refuge and ambush points.

Distribution

The Acadian Redfish is primarily found in the northwestern Atlantic, ranging from the Gulf of Maine, across the Grand Banks, up to the waters off Labrador and Greenland. They are a common sight in deeper parts of these cold northern waters.

Behaviour

Acadian Redfish are schooling fish, often congregating in large groups close to the seabed. They are opportunistic bottom feeders, preying on small crustaceans like krill and copepods, as well as small fish and squid. They are generally slow-moving, preferring to ambush their food rather than actively chase it.

Edibility

★★★★★

Known for its firm, white, and flaky flesh, Acadian Redfish offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It holds up well to various cooking methods, making it excellent for baking, broiling, frying, or steaming.

Lure suggestion

For these deep-water bottom dwellers, multi-hook jigging rigs baited with strips of squid, clams, or cut fish are highly effective. Heavy jigs with glow-in-the-dark properties can also entice strikes, especially in low light. Drifting over rocky bottom structures with sufficient weight to reach the bottom is a common and productive technique.