Burbot

Burbot is the only freshwater member of the cod family. Has an elongated, mottled body with a single chin barbel. Reaches weights of 25 kg.

Feeds on fish (ruffe, gudgeon, fry), crayfish, worms, and fish eggs. A nocturnal predator with an excellent sense of smell.

Most active at 2–12 °C. The only freshwater species that is primarily active in cold weather. Enters summer dormancy above 15 °C. Spawns under ice in January–February. Best fishing occurs in late autumn and winter.

Holds on rocky and gravel substrate, deep holes with current. In summer, hides under rocks and snags in the deepest, coldest areas.

Caught on live bait (ruffe is the best), fish strips, worms, and cut bait. Leger and winter tip-ups are the main methods. Fishing is exclusively at night or during dusk.

For trophy burbot: fish during the coldest nights (-10 °C and below). Ruffe on a leger near rocky bottom. Set multiple rods with bite alarms along a drop-off — burbot patrols fixed routes.