Burbot

Body Type & Identification: The only freshwater member of the cod family in North America — resembles a large catfish/eel hybrid with a single chin barbel, two dorsal fins, and mottled brown-yellow pattern. Also called "Ling," "Eelpout," or "Lawyer." Scaleless, slimy skin and an eel-like body. Outstanding eating — firm, white, flaky meat similar to its saltwater cousin, Atlantic Cod.

Preferred Water Temperature: 32°F–50°F. The most cold-tolerant of all North American freshwater sport fish — spawns under the ice in midwinter (January–February) when water is at its coldest. Peak feeding activity is from December through February. Summer is the slow season as they retreat to the deepest, coldest water.

Habitat: Cold, clear deep lakes and large rivers of Canada, Alaska, and the Great Lakes region. Also found in northern Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and New England. Found at considerable depth in summer (100–300 feet); migrates to shallower spawning areas in winter. An outstanding ice fishing target — one of the most active fish to target through the ice in deep northern lakes.

Best Lures: Large jigging spoons worked near the bottom through the ice produce excellent results. Large tube jigs work in winter. Rapala jigging lures produce strikes. Rattle baits attract fish in low-light conditions under ice. Any large, noisy lure worked aggressively near bottom in winter.

Best Baits: Fresh liver (beef or chicken) is the top bait — Burbot cannot resist fresh liver through the ice. Fresh sucker meat produces consistent results. Large nightcrawlers work well. Fresh whitefish chunks are excellent. Any fresh meat or fish near bottom in deep, cold water catches Burbot. Ice fishing at night produces the best results — they are most active in darkness.

Top 5 Destinations: Lake of the Woods MN/Canada, Flathead Lake MT, Lake Pend Oreille ID, Flaming Gorge UT, Great Slave Lake Canada.