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Burbot

Burbot

Burbot are the only freshwater member of the cod family (Gadidae).

These unique fish have an eel-like serpentine body with a flattened head, single chin barbel, and two dorsal fins - a short first fin followed by a longer second dorsal fin that extends to a rounded tail.

Washington represents the southwestern extreme of burbot distribution in North America, with populations likely originating from post-glacial dispersion in the unglaciated portion of the Columbia River basin.

Scientific Name: Lota lota

Also known as freshwater ling, eelpout, lawyer

Physical Characteristics:
  • Their mottled skin appears leopard-like with brown, black, or yellow coloration.
  • Burbot grow slowly in Washington compared to other regions, with some reaching 19 years old and 29 inches.
  • The current state record is 17.37 pounds from Bead Lake.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Burbot prefer large, deep, cold lakes and reservoirs, primarily in the northern Columbia River drainage, upper Yakima River watershed, and Pend Oreille region.

Key Locations

  • Only 11 lakes and reservoirs in northern and eastern Washington contain burbot, primarily in the northern Columbia River drainage, upper Yakima River watershed, and Pend Oreille region.
  • These include Banks Lake (Grant County), Bead and Sullivan Lakes (Pend Oreille County), Lake Chelan (Chelan County), Cle Elum, Kachess, and Keechelus Lakes (Kittitas County), Lake Roosevelt (multiple counties), Palmer Lake (Okanogan County), and Rufus Woods Reservoir.

Specific Spots

  • For Lake Roosevelt, focus on the Spokane Arm and mouth of Colville River.
  • At Sullivan Lake, target the southern end near Harvey Creek inlet.
  • Ice fishing at lakes like Bead Lake - drill holes over rocky points in 40-80 feet of water.

Burbot FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Essential lures include phosphorescent (glow) jigging spoons like Big Nasty Tackle Trout-N-Pout spoons in 1-1/8 oz, Moonshine Lures super glow spoons in yellow goby color, and soft plastic baits on weighted jigheads with twist tails in bright colors.

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

Winter is the prime time for burbot fishing in Washington, particularly mid-winter (January-February). They spawn mid-winter (January-March) under ice in shallow water, making this period unsuitable for fishing as they focus on reproduction rather than feeding.

How do you catch Burbot in Washington?

Target depths of 20-50 feet near rocky bottoms during winter, transitioning from deep water (40+ feet) in early evening to shallower areas (10-20 feet) after dark. Fish right on the bottom, aggressively pounding and stirring up sediment to attract burbot, then lift the lure 6-12 inches off bottom and let it flutter.

What do Burbot eat?

Adult burbot are voracious predators feeding on kokanee, walleye, peamouth, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and mysids.

Where do Burbot live in Washington?

Burbot prefer large, deep, cold lakes and reservoirs, primarily in the northern Columbia River drainage, upper Yakima River watershed, and Pend Oreille region.

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