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Atlantic Wolffish

Anarhichas lupus

Also known as

Seawolf, Atlantic catfish, ocean catfish, devil fish

About the Atlantic Wolffish

The Atlantic Wolffish is an impressive, robust bottom-dweller characterized by its elongated, eel-like body and a large, blunt head. Its most striking feature is its formidable dentition, featuring prominent canine-like teeth at the front and crushing molars further back, perfectly adapted for its diet. The body is typically mottled in shades of brown, gray, or olive, providing excellent camouflage against rocky seafloors, and its skin is smooth rather than scaly.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

These fascinating fish inhabit cold, deep waters of the North Atlantic, typically found on rocky bottoms, gravel, or soft substrates. They often seek shelter in crevices, under boulders, or in burrows they create, preferring areas with plenty of structure.

Distribution

The Atlantic Wolffish is distributed across the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the North American coast, including Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, to the coasts of Greenland, Iceland, and Northern Europe.

Behaviour

A solitary and territorial predator, the Atlantic Wolffish is a benthic ambush hunter, spending most of its time on the seafloor. It uses its powerful jaws and specialized teeth to crush and consume hard-shelled invertebrates such as crabs, lobsters, sea urchins, and various mollusks. While not highly migratory, they can move to different depths seasonally in response to temperature or prey availability.

Edibility

★★★★★

Highly regarded as an excellent food fish, the Atlantic Wolffish boasts firm, white, flaky flesh with a sweet flavor often compared to cod, halibut, or even lobster. Its distinct taste makes it a sought-after catch.

Lure suggestion

Anglers targeting Atlantic Wolffish should employ heavy bottom-fishing gear with strong, stout hooks, as their powerful jaws can easily bend lighter tackle. Effective baits include large pieces of fresh fish (such as mackerel or herring), squid, clams, or crab, presented on a sturdy high-low rig or a single hook fished directly on the bottom in rocky or structured areas. Patience is key, as bites can be subtle.