WOLFFISH

Common names:  wolffish, ocean catfish 

Description:  Wolffish range in color from brownish olive to light blue gray .  Dark bands run along their sides.  Wolffish have an eel like shape. Wolffish have strong jaws with large canine teeth and big molars.  They can grow to 5 feet in length, with the average size closer to 3 feet. 

Where found:  inshore and offshore 

Similar species:  spotted wolffish, cusk, eel pout 

Remarks:  Wolffish are solitary fish that are only found over a hard bottom at depths varying from a few feet to over 500 feet.  They eat a variety of mollusks and crustaceans.  Fishermen will hook one while fishing for groundfish.  Wolffish should not be considered unedible. Their sweet, firm meat has lobster-like qualities.  Extreame care should be taken when handling them, because their bite can cause serious injury.