Red Cod

Cod red
© Tasmanian Government. Image Peter Gouldthorpe
Season: Open all year

bag limit15

 

possession limit30

 

boat limit-

Limits apply to cod species combined.

Guide to symbols

bagBag Limit
housePossession Limit
boatBoat Limit

Minimum size

None
Measuring

Most scalefish are measured from the nose to the end of the tail. Get your scalefish measuring ruler or sticker at any Service Tasmania outlet.

Other names

cod, hoka, red codling


Scientific name

Pseudophycis bachus

Grows to


Up to

80cm

Identifying features


​This cod is grey to brown along the back with reddish pink below with a white underside. The fins have dark margins. It is similar in appearance to the bearded rock cod Pseudophycis barbata except the bearded rock cod does not grow as large and prefers more reefy areas.

​Habitat

Prefers sandy areas from 5-400 metres.

Fishing information

Red cod are most often caught at night around wharves, jetties and rock walls that front sand areas.

Handling

They have a large mouth with small fine teeth that are not capable of breaking skin but can cause abrasions.

Cooking

These fish are excellent eating with firm white flesh with a delicate flavour.

Clean and scale the cod and remove the head at time of capture. Place the cod on absorbent paper in a dish in the fridge overnight. Next day with a sharp knife remove the fillets, skin and debone. The flesh will have become firm and you can feel any bones very easily. Cut the meat into around 3cm pieces and coat with thin batter. Deep fry taking care not to overcook.

Hotline

Fishwatch Report illegal fishing

0427 655 557

What to report? arrow button

Contact us

Recreational Fishing

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

Hobart TAS 7000

Phone: (03) 6165 3233, 1300 720 647

Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: commercial.fisheries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries Licensing

Level 1, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: fishing.licensing@nre.tas.gov.au