Species guide

How to catch Oilfish

Ruvettus pretiosus

#0552

Stylized 2D illustration of Oilfish
#0552SaltwaterGame FishSaltwaterAtlanticMediterranean

The Oilfish is a large, elongated predator found mostly in deep offshore waters. It moves solitary or in pairs near the ocean bottom and hunts for fish, squid, and crustaceans. This species can reach impressive sizes and is known for its oily flesh.

Where they live

Found in saltwater over continental shelves and sometimes in oceanic depths down to 800 meters. Common in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions, usually near the bottom and offshore.

Typical size

Up to about 300 cm

What they eat

  • fish
  • squid
  • crustaceans

Best baits

  • cut bait
  • squid strips
  • small fish

Best lures

  • deep-diving plugs
  • jigs
  • metal spoons

How to fish for them

  • deep-water jigging
  • bottom fishing
  • trolling

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