Fishing for Burbot
Identification, habitat, techniques, and tackle—then find a captain who targets them.
Burbot (Lota lota) is a freshwater cod-like gamefish with an unmistakable shape: elongated, cylindrical body, mottled brown-green coloration, a single chin barbel and long dorsal and anal fins that
Burbot inhabit cold lakes, reservoirs and rivers across northern North America, Europe and Asia. They prefer clear to turbid waters where bottom temperatures stay low and oxygen is adequate.
Burbot are best targeted in late fall, winter and during ice season when cold water triggers feeding and spawning movements. Night fishing is highly productive; dawn, dusk and moonlit nights see most
Use stout gear: a medium-heavy to heavy rod 6 to 7 feet for conventional boat work, or a short, stiff 28 to 36 inch rod for ice fishing. Line in the 10–30 lb range is typical—braid for sensitivity
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Captains Who Target Burbot
No captains in our directory currently list burbot as a species they target. Browse all captains to find someone who might target it, or check back later as our network grows.