CUSK
Common name: cusk
Description: Cusk are dark slate to red brown above with yellowish sides and a dirty white underbody. They have an elongated, taper shaped body. Their dorsal and anal fins are long and they have a rounded tail fin. Cusk can grow to about 3.5 feet in length and to 30 pounds. Their average size in the waters of the Gulf of Maine is closer to 1.5 to 2.5 feet in length and 5 to 10 pounds.
Where found: offshore
Similar species: wolffish, eel pout
Remarks: Cusk are bottom dwellers that inhabit waters of 60 to 200 feet. They prefer a hard bottom made up of rocks or boulders. Cusk are excellent to eat, especially in chowders. Fishermen will hook cusk while fishing for cod or haddock. Cusk are considered to be weak and sluggish swimmers, they put up a good fight. Clams, mackerel and herring work well as bait for cusk.