Sebastes levis
How to identify a Cowcod
Cowcod are found in rocky bottoms, reefs, kelp, wrecks, and continental-shelf or slope habitats. Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.
EnvironmentSaltwater
SeasonDepth and open seasons vary; check current regional rules
Habitat and range
Rocky bottoms, reefs, kelp, wrecks, and continental-shelf or slope habitats
Where to catch Cowcod
- North Sea (NOR/UK) — all species we list for this fishery
- Iceland — all species we list for this fishery
- Georges Bank (US) — all species we list for this fishery
- Norwegian coast — all species we list for this fishery
Cowcod by state
State season calendars that list Cowcod — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:
- Massachusetts — seasons, best months and licence info
Baits and lures
Species-dependent · squid · fish strips · crustaceans · bottom rigs · jigs · or soft plastics
Related species
Often caught in the same waters or confused with Cowcod:
- Crevalle Jack — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Cubera Snapper — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Cubera Snapper (Pacific) — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Cuckoo Ray — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Cuckoo Wrasse — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Cusk — identification & profile (Saltwater)
Monthly bite brief
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Do not rely on a photo alone for legal or food-safety decisions. Location, season, life stage and local regulations matter. Confirm any identification that affects possession limits or consumption with the responsible wildlife agency.
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