Featured Cod Guides
Expert captains ready to take you on your next Cod adventure.
Ron Arra Surf Fishing
East Sandwich, Massachusetts
Book a Cape Cod Fishing Charter and reel in the best fish species with Ron Arra Surf Fishing! Experience the thrill of surf casting today.
Gypsy Charters
Hyannis, Massachusetts
Don't miss out on the ultimate Cape Cod fishing adventure! Book a trip with GypsyCharters and Captain Tom to catch bass, cod, and flounder.
Charter Trips
Marshfield, Massachusetts
Chasin Tail Charters offers charter fishing trips from Green Harbor, Massachusetts. Chasin Tail Charters specializes in deep sea fishing in Stellwagen Bank and Cape Cod Bay off the coast of Massachusetts.
Pleasant Bay Charters
Fly Fishing off Chatham waters Cape Cod fly fishing charters.
Plan a Cod Fishing Trip
Find the best times and places to catch Cod, and get matched with experienced guides.
Best Time to Catch Cod
Peak months for Cod fishing across the US.
Best Places to Catch Cod
Top 6 cities ranked by guide availability and species data quality.
States Where Cod Are Found
Top Locations for Cod
Seasonal Activity Chart
Cod
Atlantic Cod are a cornerstone species in the North Atlantic, highly valued for their flaky white flesh and historical importance to commercial fisheries. While commercially significant, cod also offer a rewarding experience for recreational anglers seeking a challenging catch in cold, deep waters. Known for their robust size and strong fighting ability, landing a cod is a memorable achievement, particularly during the colder months when they are most active. Cod can be found in the waters off the coasts of Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.
Effective techniques for catching cod include bottom fishing with heavy jigs, bait rigs, or chunk bait. Popular bait choices include clams, squid, and herring. Jigging with metal or soft plastic jigs is also highly effective, especially when targeting cod in deeper waters. Trolling with deep-diving lures can also produce results, particularly when searching for cod in areas with strong currents. A heavy-duty conventional rod and reel combo with 50-80 lb test line is recommended to handle the weight of the jigs and the powerful fight of a large cod.
Cod fishing is typically best during the colder months, from late fall through early spring, when the fish are more active and concentrated in specific areas. During the winter, cod often move into shallower waters to feed, making them accessible to anglers fishing from boats or even shore. Pay attention to water temperature and current, as cod prefer cold, clear water with strong tidal flow. Look for them around rocky bottoms, wrecks, and other submerged structures.
For beginners, start with bottom fishing using a simple bait rig baited with clams or squid. Focus on areas with known cod populations and pay attention to your depth finder to locate potential hotspots. Local tackle shops can provide valuable information on the best locations and techniques in your area. Be prepared for cold weather and rough seas, and always prioritize safety when fishing in the North Atlantic. Check local regulations for size and bag limits before heading out.