Whiting
Merlangius merlangus
A classic cold-water bottom fish of the Black Sea winter.
Habitat
Sandy and muddy bottoms between 20–100 m; comes inshore in winter.
Behaviour
Schools on the bottom, preferring cold and turbid water.
Feeding
Shrimp, small fish, marine worms.
Recommended baits
Shrimp, ragworm, anchovy strip.
Recommended methods
Boat ledgering, long-distance casting from shore.
Safe handling and release
Soft-fleshed and spoils fast; chill immediately if keeping.
Confusable with
Hake; whiting has a short chin barbel.
Regulations
- Minimum size
- 13 cm
T.C. Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı · last verified 03.08.2026
Regulation information is not legal advice. Rules vary by country, region and season; every record shows its source and last verification date. Always check the current official regulations yourself.