All Species

Ling

Latin Name: Genypterus blacodes

Weight: 4-10kg (up to 20kg)

Length: 80–120cm

Family: Ling belong to the Ophidiidae family (cusk eels).

  • Wild Caught
  • Farmed

Location

Ling are found in deep waters around southern New Zealand, particularly in sub-Antarctic areas.

  • Common fishing areas include:
    • Campbell Plateau
    • Waters off the southern South Island​
  • Typically found at depths of 300–500 metres​

Ling are primarily bottom dwellers, sometimes inhabiting burrows on the seafloor, but will move up the water column to feed.​

They are harvested by both trawl and longline methods, across inshore and deepwater fisheries. ​​

Sustainability

Ling is managed under New Zealand’s Fisheries Act and the Quota Management System (QMS), which sets limits on how much fish can be caught to ensure long-term sustainability. ​

This system is supported by ongoing scientific research, monitoring, and regular reviews of catch limits.

MSC Certification

New Zealand ling fisheries (LIN 3, LIN 4, LIN 5, LIN 6 and LIN 7) are certified to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) standard.

  • Since 2014, five ling trawl and five ling longline fisheries have been certified as meeting MSC sustainability requirements, following regular independent audits.​
  • Hoki, hake, ling and southern blue whiting fisheries are assessed together as part of MSC certification, reflecting their overlap and the way they are managed as a combined fishery complex.

Learn more about certification and access audit reports on our Third Party Certification page.

Fishing Methods

Hook & Line Hook & Line
Trawl Trawl

Fishing Season

  • JAN

  • FEB

  • MAR

  • APR

  • MAY

  • JUN

  • JUL

  • AUG

  • SEP

  • OCT

  • NOV

  • DEC

Peak Season
Off Season

Nutrition

Source: Biotin (vitamin B7), Iodine, Magnesium

Good Source: Niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B12, Phosphorus, Selenium, Omega-3 fatty acids

Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein. Many species are low in saturated fat and a number of them are a good source of Omega 3.

Did you know?

Ling is a firm, white-fleshed species with a mild flavour, making it versatile for a wide range of cooking methods.

It is one of New Zealand’s top seafood export earners, with its thick fillets and firm texture making it popular in both home kitchens and restaurants.

Cooking Tips

Ling is a versatile, firm-fleshed fish that can be cooked in practically every way.  Try it:

  • baked
  • barbecued
  • in a casserole
  • in a curry
  • poached
  • smoked
  • steamed
  • fried
  • soup/chowder

Ling Recipes

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