Burbot
The only freshwater member of the cod family in North America, an odd-looking, eel-bodied fish stocked in a small number of Montana waters.
- Scientific name
- Lota lota
- Family
- Lotidae
- Adult size
- Typically 15–25 inches.
Identification
Long, eel-like body, a single chin barbel, and mottled olive-brown coloring.
Habitat
Cold, deep lakes and rivers; most active near the bottom, especially in winter.
Diet
Fish and invertebrates, hunted mostly at night.
Angling
Targeted by a small but dedicated group of winter anglers, often through the ice.
Where Burbot is stocked
When Burbot is stocked
Top Burbot waters
Triangle Pond
3 species · 242 records
Last stocked May 2026
Newlan Reservoir
5 species · 164 records
Last stocked May 2026
Lake Sutherlin
4 species · 158 records
Last stocked June 2026
Noxon Rapids Reservoir
6 species · 127 records
Last stocked August 1997
Cabinet Gorge Reservoir
6 species · 97 records
Last stocked August 1994
Petrolia Reservoir
8 species · 74 records
Last stocked June 2025
Thompson Falls Reservoir
3 species · 7 records
Last stocked April 1974
Frequently asked
Where is Burbot stocked?
Burbot is stocked in 7 waters across 1 state: Montana.
When is Burbot stocked?
Burbot is typically stocked in spring, most often in May, based on records across every state that stocks it.
How many Burbot are stocked?
About 2,961 Burbot have been stocked on record since 1971, across Montana.
What size Burbot are stocked?
Stocked Burbot average about 15.8 inches, based on sizes reported by Montana.
What does a Burbot look like?
Long, eel-like body, a single chin barbel, and mottled olive-brown coloring.