Burbot (Eelpout) Fishing in Minnesota
Minnesota’s only freshwater cod. Spawns under the ice in midwinter. Celebrated at the annual Eelpout Festival on Leech Lake. Excellent eating — ‘poor man’s lobster.’
Burbot (Eelpout)
Lota lota
Minnesota's only freshwater cod. Spawns under the ice in midwinter. Celebrated at the annual Eelpout Festival on Leech Lake. Excellent eating — 'poor man's lobster.'
Size Limit
No minimum
Daily Bag
No limit on most waters
Season
Year-round
State Record
19 lb 3 oz
Lake of the Woods (1957)
Best Months to Fish
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
What to Use
Live Bait & Natural
Cut ciscoMinnowsNightcrawlers
Lures & Artificials
Glow jigsHeavy jigging spoonsPounding rigs
Regulation Notes
No limits on most inland waters.
More Minnesota Fish Species
Plan Your Burbot (Eelpout) Trip
Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next burbot (eelpout) fishing trip in Minnesota.
Explore Lakes Find a Guide Bait & TackleRegulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Minnesota DNR regulations before fishing. A Minnesota fishing license is required for ages 16+.