Lingcod

Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) is a predatory marine fish in the greenling family Hexagrammidae, and the only species in the genus Ophiodon. It is native to the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California, where it occupies rocky reefs, ledges, and kelp forests. Adults commonly inhabit depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to several hundred meters, while juveniles prefer shallower zones. Lingcod has an elongated body, a large mouth with sharp canine teeth, and a mottled brown-to-green coloration that provides camouflage among rocks. It can grow to substantial sizes, though most individuals encountered by anglers are smaller.

Lingcod is an ambush predator, feeding primarily on other fish, crabs, and other invertebrates. It typically lies hidden in crevices or kelp and strikes prey with a sudden burst. Reproduction occurs in winter to spring in many areas; females lay large masses of gelatinous eggs in nests, and males guard the eggs until they hatch, with incubation time influenced by temperature. Larvae are pelagic before settling to the bottom as juveniles.

In fisheries, lingcod is valued as a sport fish and for commercial use in parts of its range. Management measures, including size limits, bag limits, seasonal closures, and area-based protections, are applied in several jurisdictions to prevent overfishing and to support stock rebuilding where needed.