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Arctic alligatorfish

Aspidophoroides olrikii

Arctic alligatorfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Arctic alligatorfish (Aspidophoroides olrikii) is a small, slender flatfish found in cold marine and brackish waters of the Arctic and sub‑Arctic regions. Reaching only about 8.6 cm, it is rarely targeted by anglers but is occasionally caught incidentally while fishing for larger species. Its subtle flavor makes it more of a curiosity than a prized table fish.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Agonidae

Max Size

8.6 cm

Habitat

marine, brackish

Depth Range

0-632m

Climate

polar

Best Season

Summer (June–August) when water temperatures rise slightly

Best Time

Dawn and early evening

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Arctic alligatorfish

  • Use the smallest possible hook (size 18‑20) to match the fish’s tiny mouth
  • Fish over sandy or muddy bottoms where the species ambushes prey
  • Keep the line taut and reel slowly to feel subtle bites
  • Release the fish promptly if not keeping it for consumption

Top Fishing Locations for Arctic alligatorfish

Isfjord, Svalbard

Norway
intermediate60% Common

Deep, cold fjord with abundant benthic crustaceans attracting Arctic alligatorfish; popular among cold‑water specialists.

Best: June-August

Foxe Basin near Pond Inlet

Canada
intermediate55% Common

Shallow Arctic shelf waters rich in silty bottoms where alligatorfish ambush; accessible via local charters.

Best: July-September

Disko Bay, Qasigiannguit

Greenland
intermediate70% Very Common

Cold, nutrient‑rich bay with extensive sea‑floor habitats; renowned among Greenlandic anglers for alligatorfish bites.

Best: June-August

Southern Coast of Novaya Zemlya

Russia
expert45% Occasional

Remote Kara Sea coastline with pristine, icy bottoms; only reached by expedition vessels, offering thrilling catches.

Best: June-July

Westfjords near Ísafjörður

Iceland
beginner30% Occasional

Accessible coastal reefs with cold currents; a favorite for anglers seeking Arctic species without extreme logistics.

Best: July-August

Coastal Waters off Utqiaġvik (Barrow)

USA
intermediate40% Occasional

Arctic Alaskan shelf offering reliable alligatorfish activity; reachable via local fishing operators.

Best: June-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Arctic alligatorfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltra‑light spinning rod, 4–5 ft, fast action
Line1–2 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs or tiny soft‑plastic grubs (1/64–1/32 oz)
TechniqueBottom fishing with a light split‑shot sinker, slow retrieve

Best bait: Live minnows, shrimp, or maggot larvae