| Pollockby Geoffrey English
 Pollock (Pollachius Virens)
Pollock can be found primarily in the Atlantic Ocean. They range from Iceland to northern Spain, with some populations found in the English Channel, western Baltic and the North Sea. It is said to be the most active member of the cod family, with most anglers finding them around Cape Cod, or along the U.S. eastern coast. Living in waters shallower than most of their relatives, they can be found at depths of 100 fathoms, with some living near the shore.
Younger Pollock travel in small schools, usually found near the surface. These juveniles have a slightly different jaw than the adults, but that will fade as they mature. Pollock are considered daytime sight feeders. The young eat microscopic crustaceans, such as copepods, while the adult Pollock feed on larger crustaceans such as shrimp. Well equipped for hunting, they are strong swimmers, and are extremely capable of outrunning their prey.
 Poolock can be readily caught on artificial plugs, jigs, bait, etc. Pollock are bled, gutted and iced immediately after being caught to maintain their excellent taste. If they are iced in a large cooler, the melted water should be drained occasionally so the fish do not soak in warming water. This will cause them to sour quickly. If they are iced in a boat fish box, the angler should remove the fish box's drain plug and replenish the water supply regularly. They are best eaten right after they are caught to preserve freshness.
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