The northern hagfish, also known as the hagfish, is a fascinating yet underappreciated species by sport fishermen in Quebec. It is not a fighting fish, but its ecological role is crucial. It is mainly found in the cold and deep waters of the North Atlantic, including some areas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is especially known for its ability to produce large amounts of mucus when threatened, making it an interesting subject of study for marine biologists. Although its fishing is not common, it piques the interest of researchers for its unique biology and extreme adaptations.

The northern hagfish has an elongated, cylindrical body, typically measuring between 30 and 60 cm long. Its skin is scale-less and has a slimy texture, making it slippery to the touch. The color of the hagfish ranges from grayish to brown, sometimes with pinkish hues. It has a circular mouth surrounded by sensory tentacles, but lacks true jaws. Its eyes are rudimentary, covered by skin, and it has no paired fins or developed caudal fin. Young hagfish closely resemble adults, although they are often paler. There is no marked sexual dimorphism between males and females, even during spawning.

In Quebec, the northern hagfish is primarily found in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where it prefers deep, cold waters. It can also be found along rocky coastlines and in sheltered bays, but is absent from freshwater and inland rivers. Its global distribution extends to the North Atlantic, from the coasts of Europe to those of North America. Although it is relatively abundant in its habitat, it often goes unnoticed due to its discreet and benthic lifestyle.

The northern hagfish prefers muddy or sandy seabeds where it can bury itself to protect against predators. It is typically found at depths ranging from 20 to 1000 meters, but is more common between 100 and 500 meters. Cold waters, generally between 5 and 10 °C, are ideal for this species. It is often associated with areas rich in organic matter, where it can easily feed on carrion and small invertebrates.

The reproduction of the northern hagfish is not well understood, but it likely reproduces throughout the year, without a distinct spawning season. Females lay relatively large eggs, protected by a tough shell. Once hatched, the young resemble adults and take about a year to reach sexual maturity. The lifespan of the hagfish is relatively short, typically between 3 and 7 years. Timeline: Spring → Continuous reproduction → Summer → Growth of young → Autumn → Active feeding → Winter → Benthic and discreet life.

The northern hagfish is primarily a solitary species, although it may gather around large food sources, such as a carcass. It is not territorial and often shares its space with other individuals. Insensitive to noise and pressure changes, it is, however, sensitive to variations in light and prefers dark environments. It reacts little to weather conditions due to its deep habitat.

The diet of the northern hagfish mainly consists of carrion, which it consumes by burrowing into carcasses to feed from the inside. It also eats small invertebrates living on the seabed. Young hagfish feed in the same manner as adults, but may also consume zooplankton and insect larvae. Feeding is opportunistic and depends on resource availability.

The northern hagfish is active year-round, with no true seasonality in its behavior. In spring and summer, it takes advantage of the greater availability of carrion and invertebrates on the seabed. Autumn and winter do not significantly change its feeding habits, given its tolerance to low temperatures. It is more active in darkness, whether during the day or night, and surface weather conditions have no significant effect on it.

Since the northern hagfish is not fished on a line, the choice of lures and colors is not relevant. However, for scientific study, natural baits such as pieces of dead fish can be used to attract the hagfish into traps.

Sport fishing for the northern hagfish is not practiced, so no specific gear is recommended. However, for scientific research, deep-water capture equipment such as pots or trawls can be used.

If you handle a northern hagfish, be careful of its abundant mucus which can make it slippery to hold. For a successful release, ensure that the fish is handled quickly and with care. Taking a photo can be difficult due to its slimy texture.

The northern hagfish has few predators due to its ability to produce mucus for defense. However, some large fish such as sharks and certain species of rays may consume it. Seabirds generally do not hunt it due to its benthic lifestyle.

In Quebec, the northern hagfish is not considered a threatened species. It is often accidentally captured by commercial fishing in deep waters. No specific regulations pertain to this species, but its release is encouraged due to its ecological role.