Atlantic Wolffish

Identification

The Atlantic wolffish is an imposing, eel-shaped fish reaching up to 150 cm and over 20 kg. Its most striking feature is the massive head with powerful jaws and large, pointed canine teeth at the front, followed by broad molars. Color varies from grey to blue-brown with dark vertical bands. The long dorsal fin runs from head to tail.

Ecology

The wolffish lives solitarily on rocky bottoms in cold water, usually at 20-300 meters depth. With its enormous jaws, it effortlessly crushes crabs, sea urchins, starfish, and mollusks. The teeth are renewed annually.

Fishing techniques

The wolffish is a valued bycatch when boat fishing on the North Sea. It grabs baitfish or shellfish meat eagerly from the bottom. Use sturdy tackle: the powerful jaws can easily bend hooks and injure fingers. The flesh is excellent.

In the Netherlands

Found in the deeper parts of the North Sea, particularly the northern section. Rare but not endangered. Occasionally caught by commercial fishermen on wrecks and stony grounds.