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Burbot

Burbot

Burbot are Pennsylvania's only freshwater representative of the cod family and the state's most unique cold-water predator.

These eel-like fish are listed as endangered in Pennsylvania, with populations existing only in Lake Erie and the Allegheny River headwaters.

Scientific Name: Lota lota

Physical Characteristics:
  • Eel-like fish.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The Allegheny River population represents a relict distribution that has persisted but remains vulnerable to environmental changes.
  • In Lake Erie, they're restricted primarily to waters 20 meters deep or deeper in the eastern basin during summer.
  • These coldwater benthic fish are found in relatively narrow streams with deep pools and sluggish flows in forested landscapes.

Key Locations

  • Lake Erie and the Allegheny River headwaters, Lake Erie's eastern basin, Lake Erie's Pennsylvania Ridge, Allegheny River system.

Specific Spots

  • Deep, slow pools with abundant cover including boulders, rip-rap, concrete slabs, large woody debris, and undercut banks.
  • Target areas with structure like rocky bottoms, drop-offs, and areas near tributary mouths.
  • Focus on deep pools with abundant cover in cool streams, particularly areas with boulders, large woody debris, and undercut banks.

Burbot FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Burbot in Pennsylvania?

Cut bait, large minnows, and pieces of other fish since they're primarily piscivorous.

When is the best time to fish for Burbot in Pennsylvania?

The Lake Erie population can be legally harvested from June 1 through September 30. Winter ice fishing can be effective when conditions allow. Night fishing during winter months when water temperatures are coldest will yield the best results.

How do you catch Burbot in Pennsylvania?

Night fishing, winter ice fishing using techniques similar to those for Lake Trout, present baits on or near the bottom since they're bottom-dwelling fish, hook-and-line or spear/gig at minimum depths of sixty feet.

What do Burbot eat?

Adult Burbot are voracious predators feeding almost entirely on other fishes during summer when in deeper water, including Yellow Perch, Walleye, White Bass, Round Goby, Rainbow Smelt, sculpins, shiners, and crayfish. In winter they switch to invertebrates.

Where do Burbot live in Pennsylvania?

The Allegheny River population represents a relict distribution that has persisted but remains vulnerable to environmental changes. In Lake Erie, they're restricted primarily to waters 20 meters deep or deeper in the eastern basin during summer.

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Pennsylvania licenses and regulations

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