Pollachius virens
How to identify a Pollock
Pollock are found in reefs, rock piles, wrecks, ledges; from nearshore to deep. Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.

EnvironmentSaltwater
SeasonOften year-round; weather windows and depth matter
Habitat and range
Reefs, rock piles, wrecks, ledges; from nearshore to deep
Where to catch Pollock
- Stellwagen Bank (MA)
- Norway
- UK Channel wrecks
Pollock by state
State season calendars that list Pollock — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:
- Massachusetts — seasons, best months and licence info
Baits and lures
Jigs · bait rigs (squid · herring) · metal · bounce bottom structure
Related species
Often caught in the same waters or confused with Pollock:
- Pompano — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Porbeagle — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Porcupinefish — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Pouting — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Princess Parrotfish — identification & profile (Saltwater)
- Queen Angelfish — 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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