Resident coastal cod can be targeted effectively from May through the rest of the season. Our original account describes a major decline in Norwegian coastal cod over recent decades, including serious losses in local fjord stocks. Our exposed coastal location has been relatively sheltered from some of the pressures affecting enclosed fjords, although our area is also affected.
Cod live in our fjord, and fish of around 25 kg have been caught only minutes from camp. For consistently strong fishing, however, it pays to travel farther. Runningen and Reis are the nearest reliable grounds for big cod. When you find the fish, 15 kg specimens are common and fish of 20–25 kg are a genuine possibility.
Storskalltaren, 32 nautical miles directly west, offers exceptional fishing for cod and other species. Anglers targeting cod regularly encounter fish over 20 kg, alongside substantial numbers in the 7–18 kg range.
Cod fishing is relatively straightforward once you locate feeding fish. They often hunt high in the water, sometimes in the middle of baitfish shoals. Active fish frequently hold over the tops of reefs, while less active fish sit down-current. Large, actively worked shads are often the most effective choice. Fast vertical movements can produce slack-line takes as fish attack from below. Deadbaits can be excellent for really large cod, especially fish holding close to the bottom. On some days they are outstanding for cod over 20 kg. Do not be afraid to use saithe of up to 2 kg as bait: a large cod is quite capable of taking substantial prey.
The largest coastal cod recorded by the camp in this guide weighed 35.1 kg and measured 161 cm. It came from Storskalltaren and was described as the longest confirmed cod known to the camp.
