Overview Species Guide Regulations Licenses Fisheries Data

Haddock

Melanogrammus aeglefinus

Water Type

Saltwater

Also known as

Scrod, Chowder Fish

IUCN status

Vulnerable

About the Haddock

Haddock are easily identified by their distinctive dark lateral line which contrasts sharply with their pale, often silvery-grey to brownish-grey flanks. A key identifying feature is the prominent, sooty-black blotch, often called St. Peter's mark or the 'thumbprint of God,' located just above each pectoral fin. They possess a relatively small mouth and a long, pointed dorsal fin, giving them a sleek profile. Their body tapers towards a forked tail, a common trait among many bottom-dwelling whitefish.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Haddock prefer cool, temperate waters, typically inhabiting sandy, gravelly, or shell-covered bottoms. They are most commonly found at depths ranging from 40 to 130 meters, though they can be encountered in shallower or significantly deeper waters, always seeking out the seabed.

Distribution

This popular groundfish is widely distributed across the North Atlantic Ocean, found on both the eastern (European) and western (North American) sides, including the Barents Sea and Icelandic waters.

Behaviour

Haddock are primarily bottom feeders, using their sensitive snouts to forage for a diet consisting mainly of various marine invertebrates like worms, small crustaceans, and mollusks. They also consume small fish, particularly sand eels. These schooling fish often undertake seasonal migrations, moving to deeper waters in winter and shallower areas for feeding and spawning.

Edibility

★★★★★

Renowned for its delicate, firm, white, and flaky flesh, Haddock is considered excellent table fare. It has a mild flavor that holds up well to various cooking methods, making it a favorite for traditional fish and chips, baking, smoking, or chowders.

Lure suggestion

Anglers targeting haddock typically find success with bottom-fishing techniques using natural baits. Clams, squid strips, and marine worms fished on a two or three-hook rig with a sinker are highly effective. Small jigs tipped with bait can also entice strikes, especially when bounced along the seafloor.