Introduction
Blue cod (Parapercis colias) is one of New Zealand's most prized recreational fish, found throughout the South Island's coastal waters, the Marlborough Sounds, Stewart Island, and the Chatham Islands. Known for their delicious white flesh and feisty bite, blue cod are a favourite target for both novice and experienced anglers. Here's everything you need to know to land your limit.
Where to Find Blue Cod
Blue cod are a bottom-dwelling species that love rocky reef structures, kelp beds, and rough ground in depths ranging from 5 to 150 metres. Top spots include:
- Marlborough Sounds – Queen Charlotte Sound and Pelorus Sound are legendary blue cod fisheries.
- Stewart Island / Rakiura – Some of New Zealand's best blue cod fishing, with big fish in good numbers.
- Kaikoura Coast – Rocky reefs close to shore hold good populations.
- Chatham Islands – World-class blue cod fishing for those willing to make the trip.
- Fiordland – Remote but incredibly productive.
Best Time to Catch Blue Cod
Blue cod can be caught year-round, but fishing tends to be most productive during spring and summer (September to February) when fish are more active and feeding aggressively. Slack water — the period around the turn of the tide — is generally the best time to drop a line, as blue cod move off the bottom to feed.
Gear and Tackle
Rods and Reels
A medium-weight overhead or spinning rod (6–8 kg class) paired with a quality reel loaded with 15–30 lb braid is ideal. Braid gives superior feel for bottom contact and bite detection.
Rigs
Blue cod are not fussy — keep it simple:
- Flasher rig / Sabiki rig – Multiple hooks with colourful attractors are very effective, especially when fishing is competitive.
- Running sinker rig – A basic but deadly setup. Run a sinker above a swivel, then a short trace to a size 4/0–6/0 hook.
- Ledger rig – Good for holding bait in strong currents.
Sinker Weight
Use enough weight to stay on the bottom — typically 60–150 g depending on depth and current. Always keep contact with the bottom.
Best Baits for Blue Cod
Blue cod are opportunistic feeders. Top baits include:
- Squid – The number one bait. Strip squid or use whole baby squid for big fish.
- Piper / garfish – Fresh strips are highly effective.
- Pilchard / mackerel – Oily fish attract bites quickly.
- Mussel – A local favourite, especially when fishing shallow rocky reefs.
- Soft plastics – Curl tail grubs and paddle tails in white, pink, or orange work surprisingly well on lightly weighted jig heads (10–20 g).
Lure Fishing for Blue Cod
Don't overlook lures! Blue cod will readily smash:
- Knife jigs / metal jigs – Jig them hard on the bottom in 20–80 m of water.
- Soft plastics on jig heads – Bounce them along the bottom structure.
- Teaser rigs with a jig – Adding a small dropper hook above a jig often doubles your chances.
Fishing Techniques
- Anchor up on structure – Use a fish finder to locate reef edges and drop offs, then anchor up-current so your bait drifts into the zone.
- Keep your bait on the bottom – Blue cod rarely leave the bottom. Regularly drop back to stay in contact.
- Jig slowly – When lure fishing, a slow lift-and-drop retrieve close to the bottom is most effective.
- Change baits regularly – Fresh bait outfishes stale bait every time.
- Use berley – A berley pot with minced fish or pilchards will attract cod from surrounding reef.
NZ Regulations – Know Before You Go
Blue cod regulations vary by region and are strictly enforced. Key rules as of 2024:
- Minimum size: Varies by region — typically 30–33 cm total length. Always check the rules for your specific area.
- Bag limits: Typically 10 per person per day in most regions, but Marlborough Sounds has special restrictions — check with MPI's recreational fishing rules before your trip.
- Closed seasons: Some areas have seasonal closures to protect spawning aggregations.
- Species identification: Make sure you can correctly identify blue cod vs. other similar species.
Always check the latest rules with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) before fishing, as regulations can change.
Handling and Eating Blue Cod
Blue cod is outstanding table fish. To get the best eating quality:
- Bleed your fish immediately after capture by cutting the gills or the throat.
- Ice them down as soon as possible.
- Fillet fresh and eat within 2–3 days, or freeze for later.
- Blue cod are perfect pan-fried in butter, battered for fish and chips, or baked whole.
Top Tips Summary
- Fish rocky reef structure and kelp beds.
- Use squid as your go-to bait.
- Stay on the bottom at all times.
- Fish the turn of the tide for best results.
- Check current MPI regulations for your region.
Now get out there and tight lines! 🎣
