LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

• Lingcod, known for their aggressive nature and impressive size, are highly sought-after saltwater fish found along the coasts of the United States. Anglers in the Northwest region, particularly in Oregon and Washington, have the opportunity to target these formidable predators in nearshore and offshore waters. Here are some notable locations for lingcod fishing in these states:

• Oregon: Lingcod can be found along the entire Oregon coast, from Astoria to Brookings. Popular fishing spots include Cape Arago, Cape Meares, Depoe Bay, and Cape Blanco. Rocky areas, reefs, and underwater structures are prime habitats for lingcod.

• Washington: Lingcod can be targeted in various locations along the Washington coast, including Neah Bay, La Push, Westport, and the Puget Sound. Rocky outcrops, kelp beds, and submerged structures are known hotspots for lingcod.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Lingcod prefer rocky areas and underwater structures such as reefs, pinnacles, and ledges. They are ambush predators, hiding among crevices and waiting for their prey. Lingcod can be found in depths ranging from shallow nearshore waters to deeper offshore areas, often lurking near the bottom.

  
  

PATTERNS

SPRING

• During spring, lingcod move closer to the shoreline in search of food and for spawning purposes. They can be found near rocky areas, reefs, and kelp beds. Fishing with live bait such as small fish or squid, as well as artificial lures, can be effective during this time.

SUMMER

• In the summer months, lingcod tend to move to deeper waters, although they can still be found nearshore. Lingcod are known to be territorial, often staying close to their preferred structures. Fishing with large jigs, swimbaits, or bait such as herring or octopus can yield good results during this season.

FALL

• Fall is a great time to target lingcod as they actively feed before winter. They can be found near rocky areas, underwater structures, and drop-offs. Fishing with jigs, swimbaits, or bait such as squid or live baitfish can be productive during this season.

WINTER

• In winter, lingcod become less active and may move to deeper offshore waters. However, they can still be caught near rocky areas and structures. Fishing with jigs, swimbaits, or bait such as herring or octopus can entice lingcod to bite even in colder months.

  
  

BAIT

• When targeting lingcod, anglers commonly use a variety of bait options to entice these aggressive predators. Popular choices include live bait such as small fish (rockfish, sanddabs) or squid, as well as cut bait such as herring or octopus. Rigging bait on a heavy-duty hook and using a sliding sinker or a fish-finder rig allows the bait to be presented near the bottom where lingcod are likely to be lurking.

  
  

• Lingcod can also be effectively targeted using artificial lures. Large jigs in various colors, such as white, chartreuse, or green, are popular choices. Jigs can be bounced or jigged near the bottom to mimic the movement of injured prey. Swimbaits and soft plastic grubs in natural colors can also attract lingcod. Retrieve these lures with a slow, erratic action to entice strikes.

Techniques

Bottom Fishing

• How: Lingcod are often found near rocky structures, reefs, and underwater ledges. Anchor your boat or drift along these areas, and drop your bait or lure near the bottom. Lingcod are ambush predators, so use a slow and steady retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic wounded prey and entice the lingcod to strike.

• Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or conventional rods with strong backbone. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 40-60lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon leaders. Hooks: Large J-hooks or circle hooks in appropriate sizes for the lingcod. Sinkers: Heavy lead sinkers to keep your bait near the bottom.

Jigging

• How: Jigging is a popular and effective technique for targeting lingcod, especially when fishing in deeper waters. Use heavy metal jigs with vibrant colors and realistic swimming actions. Drop the jig to the desired depth, and then employ an erratic jigging motion to imitate a wounded baitfish. Lingcod are known to strike aggressively during the upward movement.

• Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy jigging rods with a fast action. Reels: High-speed spinning reels or conventional reels with a strong drag system. Line: 40-60lb test braided line. Leaders: 60-80lb test fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs: Heavy metal jigs in various colors and weights to match the depth and conditions.

Live Bait Fishing

• How: Lingcod can also be targeted using live bait, such as small fish or squid. Rig your live bait on a sliding sinker rig or a Carolina rig, allowing it to swim naturally near the bottom. Use a slow retrieve or intermittent jerks to attract the attention of lingcod.

• Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning reels or conventional reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 40-60lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon leaders. Hooks: Large J-hooks or circle hooks in appropriate sizes for the live bait.