Pollack

Pollack is often used as a substitute for cod in many recipes and is popular in dishes such as fish and chips, fish cakes, and chowders. It can be baked, broiled, grilled, or fried.

Pollack (Pollachius pollachius) is a species of fish in the family Gadidae, commonly found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular commercial fish and is also enjoyed as a food fish in many countries.

Appearance

Pollack has a torpedo-shaped body that is blue-green on the back and sides with a silver-white belly. They have a slightly curved lateral line and a forked tail. They can grow up to 3 feet in length and can weigh up to 25 pounds.

Habitat

Pollack is found in the North Atlantic, ranging from Greenland and Iceland to the Barents Sea, the Norwegian Sea, the North Sea, and the Baltic Sea. They are typically found in depths of 100 to 200 meters, but can be found as deep as 500 meters.

Fishing and Seasonality

Pollack is primarily caught using gillnets, trawls, and longlines. They are caught year-round, but the peak season for catching pollack is typically in the winter months. Pollack is often caught as bycatch when fishing for other species, such as cod.

Culinary

Pollack has white, lean flesh that is firm and flaky with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used as a substitute for cod in many recipes and is popular in dishes such as fish and chips, fish cakes, and chowders. It can be baked, broiled, grilled, or fried.

Conservation

The status of pollack populations in the North Atlantic is considered to be stable, with no major conservation concerns at this time. However, it is important for fishing practices to be sustainable to maintain the health of the populations and the ecosystem. Fisheries management practices have been implemented to ensure sustainable fishing practices, including quotas and restrictions on fishing methods and seasons.