Burbot

COMMON NAMES: Burbot, Freshwater cod

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Lota lota

IDENTIFICATION: The burbot is a catfish-like to eel-shaped fish. Dorsal and anal fins are long and run to the base of the rounded tail. Burbot have one chin barbel. Most burbot are dark olive brown to brown, with dark brown mottling on the sides and yellowish to cream on the underside. Very small, almost invisible scales, make this a slippery fish.

RANGE AND HABITAT: The burbot is found in large lakes and rivers. Burbot prefer deep open water, but move to nearshore and river-mouth areas to spawn in the winter.

LIFE HISTORY: Burbot spawn during winter in shallow water. Adults are fish eaters that prey mainly on minnows and the young of other species.

ADULT SIZE: Burbot average 16 to 25 inches in length. They can reach a maximum size of 33 inches long and can weigh up to 10 pounds.

FISHING METHODS: The best bait is minnows or nightcrawlers.