Black Code

General

• Anoplopoma fimbria
• Black cod / Sablefish (English) – Sablefisch (German)

Black cod is found in the North Pacific Ocean, from the Bering Sea to the west coast of Canada and the United States. The species lives at great depths along continental slopes and deeper trenches, where cold, oxygen-rich water is present. Its distribution pattern follows seasonal variations in temperature and food, with adults often alternating between deeper resting zones and slightly higher layers where prey concentrates. Black cod can descend to depths of over a thousand meters and has an elongated, flexible body well-adapted to life in cool, dark conditions. The fish has a powerful caudal fin and a well-developed dorsal fin that provides stability during gentle but controlled movements. Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, shrimp, and small deep-water fish, which contributes to its characteristic lipid structure. Due to these ecological characteristics, black cod has a stable distribution in northern ocean areas, where the species plays an important role in deep food webs.

Other information

Black cod is prized for its exceptionally tender texture and high fat content, making it suitable for smoking, grilling, baking, and slow cooking. The species is strictly managed in North American waters, with sustainable quotas and controlled fishing methods that contribute to healthy stocks. This approach makes black cod a prime example of successful deep-sea management practices. Demand in the hospitality and retail sectors continues to grow, thanks in part to its consistent quality and distinctive mouthfeel. Industry trends are focused on transparent origin information and further sustainability of fishing techniques. This makes black cod an attractive species for fishmongers and any fish wholesaler working to provide a responsible supply to the hospitality industry.