- Atlantic Cod are native to the North Atlantic and they are abundant in the waters off North America's northeastern seaboard. According to the National Oceanic and Atmposheric Administration, two "stocks" of Atlantic Cod inhabit these waters: Gulf of Maine stocks and Georges Bank Stocks. Georges Bank stocks are the Cod typically caught by those fishing in or around New Jersey's coastal waters. These Cod can grow to be 51 inches and 70 plus pounds (the New Jersey record is 81 pounds), and they can live 20 years or more. That said, most Cod landed in New Jersey are 2 to 4 years old, 12 to 25 pounds and 27 to 34 inches in length.
- winch image by John Sandoy from Fotolia.com
Commercial fishing for Atlantic Cod is usually done with otter trawls and gill nets. Recreationally most fishermen baitfish, lowering pieces of clam or cut bait to great depths with a down rigger or heavily spooled rod. Some fishermen will also jig for the fish, though this will have to be done at depths of 25 to 40 feet to be effective. A 7 1/2 to 9 foot rod of medium stiffness is recommended. It should be spooled with 40 to 50 pound test line, dracon line if you are jigging, and monofilament line if you are bait fishing. - provencal brandade of cod 3 image by Chef from Fotolia.com
Cod are lightly flavored fish. According to a local fishing authority, they need to be bled, gutted and iced as soon as you catch them "to retain their delicate flavor". If iced in a cooler, melted water should be periodically drained to keep the fish cool. Cod can be baked, fried, broiled or poached and they are often used to make fish cakes and chowders. They can be salted and preserved for long periods without loosing their flavor or nutritional value. - A saltwater fishing license is not required to catch cod recreationally in New Jersey's coastal waters. However, you will have to register with the "National Saltwater Angler Registry" if you plan to fish three miles beyond the state's coast, as these waters are managed by the federal government. There is no closed season for Cod and there are no bag or possession limits in New Jersey's tidal waters, or in federal waters. However, to keep a cod it must be at least 21 inches in length.
- Deep sea fishing can be dangerous and you are wise to engage the services of an experienced guide if you are new to the region. Be mindful of weather reports and be sure to dress in layers; warm, waterproof clothing will be a necessity in the spring and winter months. State and federal fishing regulations and bag limits are subject to change; fishermen are advised to check the latest regulations before they head out.
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