Burbot
Lota lota
Size
to 15" avg.,
sometimes much larger
The Burbot is the only freshwater representative of the Cod family. Although native to the Great Lakes, and Midwest, they have been widely introduced for fishermen. Adults prefer deep cold water but spawn under ice in the shallows.
Freshwater gamefish such as trout and bass may not be taken by spear by divers. However, in some places, it may be legal to spearfish for carp, catfish, suckers, and other "rough" fishes - check local regulations.
More: Bottom Fishes ...
Cods - family Gadidae - are one of the most commercially important families of fish in the sea. As such, they have been fished to the brink of disaster. The book above is a fascinating study of the historical relationship between western civilization and the codfish.
The only freshwater representative of the cod family is the Burbot.
More: Cods & Allies ...