Cod fish are a saltwater fish found mainly in the area of the north Atlantic. It is possible to catch cod weighing more than 40 lbs. with a rod and reel, according to the Fishing Expert website, but more often you'll catch smaller specimens, referred to as "codling." Cod is a staple on the menus of many seafood restaurants and is generally considered a good eating fish. It is also valued for the oil found in its liver. Catching cod is not overly complicated, as long as you follow a few basic techniques and tips.
Step 1
Obtain the necessary equipment to catch cod fish. You will need 30- to 50-lb. test fishing line with a 5- to 8-foot medium to heavy action fishing rod and a heavy reel, according to OhMyCod.com. Tie an 8- to 20-oz. sinker to your line to keep it deeper in the water.
Step 2
Bait your hooks with crabs, worms, clams, muscles, squid and fish that spend time around the sea floor. Cod typically feed off the bottom of the ocean and are more likely to strike at bait that they eat often.
Step 3
Choose a jig-type lure if you don't use live bait. Jigs are designed to move in jerky motions to attract the attention of fish. Jigs can also be moved along the ocean floor, where cod are likely to be. Consider choosing a jig with a rattle, as cod are attracted to noise, according to OhMyCod.com.
Step 4
Cast your bait from piers, beaches, rocks or boats, inshore or offshore. Find spots with shipwrecks on the bottom, as cod often use wrecks for protection. Dense kelp beds and rocky reefs are also favorite spots for cod.
Things You'll Need
- Fishing rod
- 30- to 50-lb. test line
- Lures
- Live bait
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