Maine Seafood Guide – Cusk

Cusk

Species Description

Cusk Brosme brosme
also known as tusk, torsk

Wild.

Cusk is a member of the cod family. It is a slender fish with a single long, thick dorsal fin and pectoral fins edged in black. Cusk varies in color depending on its habitat. Sluggish and weak swimmers, cusk stay near hard sea bottom in deep water, from Newfoundland to New Jersey.

Season

Year-round.

Status

Little is known about Gulf of Maine cusk, including stock structure.

Regulatory Authority

Cusk are categorized as a non-sport fish and are not specifically managed for in Maine.

Harvest Method

Cusk is not targeted by commercial fishermen, but can be caught with other groundfish as a bycatch. See the vessel and gear guide for more information.

Recreational Harvest

Cusk are occasionally caught by anglers targeting cod and haddock. Cusk can be readily caught during the winter ice fishing season, in depths of 15 ft to 25 ft, with sandy/gravelly bottoms.

There are no length, weight, or bag limit restrictions on cusk.

Health Benefits & Risks

Cusk are similar in nutritional value to cod and haddock.

View the 2021 US Food and Drug Administration’s fish consumption guidelines.

Buying & Preparing

Cusk is a lesser-known groundfish with firm, white flesh and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. When available, Cusk is most often found fresh at fish markets that carry a wide variety of local catch.

With a texture similar to halibut, cusk holds up well in chowders, stews, and baked dishes. It’s a great substitute for any firm white fish and pairs well with butter, herbs, and light sauces.

Maine Sea Grant