Pollack

Identification

Pollack is a slender cod relative with a distinctive coppery green to olive-brown coloration. The lateral line curves markedly downward above the pectoral fin — a key distinction from saithe. The lower jaw protrudes well beyond the upper jaw. There is no chin barbel (or only a very small one). Pollack reaches up to 130 cm and 18 kg but is usually 40 to 70 cm in the North Sea.

Behavior & ecology

Pollack lives near wrecks, reefs, and rocky structures, both inshore and offshore. It hunts in mid-water and feeds eagerly on sand eels, sprat, and small roundfish. Pollack is a powerful fish that makes hard runs toward the wreck or reef after being hooked. The species is more coastal than saithe.

Fishing techniques

Pollack is a valued sport fish:

• Lure fishing near wrecks: Shads, soft baits, and plugs along wreck structures or rocks. Let the lure sink alongside the structure and retrieve with a jigging motion.
• Drifting over wrecks: From a boat with pilker or shad above wrecks — effective with tidal current.
• Fly fishing: With large streamers near rocky shores.

In the Netherlands

Pollack is mainly caught in the Netherlands during boat fishing on North Sea wrecks. Smaller specimens are occasionally caught at Zeeland groynes. The species is more common in the Channel and along the British west coast. The flesh is lighter than cod and excellent for cooking.