Cusk Details
- Water Type: saltwater
- Latin Name: Brosme brosme
- Common Names: Cusk, Tusk
- Water Temp: 30-50 degrees F
- World Record: 35 lbs, 14 ounces.
- Last Modified By: nefisherman92 on 02/07/13 05:11 PM
- Ask about Cusk in our forum
Photos
Baits and Tackle for Cusk
Saltwater Baits Check Prices
- Clams
1st was 25"
2nd was 20" - Calms - 25" and a 18"
- Jig/Teaser - 20" and a 15"
Other Check Prices
- Once again the bait of choice was cut clams. I have learned since last year that the key to using clam bait is to use a small a peice as possible in combination with getting a good peice of stomach.
Cusk Description
The cusk is a very unique species of fish and the only one in its taxonomic genus of Brosme. Cusk can be up to 3 feet (1 m) in length and weigh up to 20 pounds (9 kg). They are characterized by a single chin "barbel" and single dorsal fin. Their upper body ranges in color from a light grey with hints of brown to a dull reddish brown that transitions to a dirty white on the belly.
Cusk are relatively slow-growing and late-maturing. Fifty percent of fish mature at approximately 1.5 feet (.5 m) in length when they are about 5 to 6 years old. Females generally mature later than males. The maximum age of this species is believed to be greater than 14 years.
Cusk spawn in spring and early summer. Eggs initially rise to the surface where hatching and larval development take place. Juveniles move to the bottom at 2 inches (5 cm) in length and become sedentary and solitary.
The cusk diet consists primarily of various species of crustaceans, fishes, and echinoderms. Cusk are solitary or occur in small groups. When fishing for Cusk, heavy sinkers are usually used in order to reach their bottom dwelling habitat. They are not usually thought of as a heavy fighting fish, due partially to the gear that is employed that usually overpowers them. Baits include crustaceans, clams, or any other bait suitable for Cod fishing. They will also bite Cod Jigs.