Species guide

How to catch Atlantic tomcod

Microgadus tomcod

Stylized 2D illustration of Atlantic tomcod
freshwaterbrackishsaltwatergame fishGadidae

The Atlantic tomcod is a small, elongated fish commonly found along North American Atlantic coasts. It thrives in freshwater, brackish, and saltwater environments, including some landlocked lakes. This species feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks, worms, squid, and small fish, making it an opportunistic predator.

Where they live

Lives in shallow to moderately deep waters (0-69 m) along Atlantic coasts of North America, including coastal, brackish, and freshwater lakes.

Typical size

Up to about 38 cm

What they eat

  • small shrimps
  • amphipods
  • worms
  • small mollusks
  • squid
  • small fish like smelt and sticklebacks

Best baits

  • small shrimp
  • worm
  • minnow
  • pieces of squid

Best lures

  • small soft plastic lures
  • jigs
  • spoons

How to fish for them

  • light spinning gear
  • jigging
  • bottom fishing

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