The ogac, also known as Greenland cod, is a fish from the Gadidae family, not well known to sport fishermen in Quebec, but fascinating for its biology and habitat. It is primarily found in the cold and brackish waters of Northern Quebec, particularly in Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay. Although it is not the most combative of fish, it holds interest for those venturing into northern regions. The ogac is a species that adapts well to cold waters, and catching it can be a rewarding experience for fishing enthusiasts in extreme environments.

The ogac has an elongated and fusiform body, typical of fish in the Gadidae family. Its color varies from gray-green to olive brown, with a lighter belly. It has distinct dorsal and anal fins, often bordered with a darker hue. Its mouth is wide with a prominent lower jaw. The scales are small and well embedded, giving it a smooth appearance. Young ogacs are generally lighter and may display spotted patterns that fade with age. Males and females are difficult to distinguish outside of the spawning period, when males may show slightly brighter colors.

In Quebec, the ogac is primarily found in northern regions, notably in Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay. This fish prefers cold and brackish waters, which limits its distribution to the Arctic areas of Quebec. It is relatively abundant in these regions, although rarely targeted by sport fishing due to its remote habitat and preferences for cold waters. Outside of Quebec, it is also found in the Arctic waters of Canada and Greenland.

The ogac is typically associated with cold and brackish waters. It frequents estuaries, bays, and fjords where the water is well-oxygenated and the temperature remains low year-round. It is often found at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters, although it may sometimes venture into deeper waters. Ogacs prefer rocky or sandy bottoms where they can hide from predators and find food. Fishermen looking to catch the ogac should target these specific habitats, using techniques suited to the cold and often challenging conditions of these regions.

The ogac usually spawns at the end of winter or early spring, when temperatures are still very cold. Females release thousands of floating eggs in protected areas of bays and estuaries. The larvae hatch after a few weeks and primarily feed on zooplankton. As they grow, young ogacs adopt a more varied diet, including small fish and invertebrates. Sexual maturity is reached between 3 and 4 years, and ogacs can live up to 12 years under optimal conditions.

Spring: Spawning and laying → Summer: Growth and active feeding → Fall: Preparation for winter → Winter: Reduced activity, spawning.

The ogac is a relatively solitary fish, although it may form small groups during spawning or feeding. It is not particularly territorial and moves according to food availability and environmental conditions. The ogac is sensitive to changes in temperature and salinity, which influence its seasonal movements. It reacts little to noise, but weather conditions like wind and light can affect its activity, pushing it to move to deeper or more sheltered areas.

The diet of the ogac varies according to its age and the season. Young fish primarily feed on zooplankton, but as they grow, they include small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates in their diet. Adults prefer larger prey such as herring, capelin, and benthic crustaceans. In winter, the ogac reduces its feeding activity due to lower temperatures and limited food availability, but it remains opportunistic when opportunities arise.

The ogac is active year-round, but its availability for fishing varies with the seasons.

Spring: After spawning, the ogac is more active and can be found in the shallow waters of bays and estuaries. The best times for fishing are early morning and late afternoon.

Summer: Feeding activity peaks, and the ogac can be found at medium depths. Cloudy days with little wind are ideal.

Fall: The ogac begins to move to deeper waters in preparation for winter. Changes in atmospheric pressure can influence its activity.

Winter: The ogac is less active, but can still be caught by targeting areas where it schools.

For ogac, choose lures in natural colors like green, brown, or gray to mimic local prey. In clear waters, opt for more subtle colors, while in murky waters, metallic or glittered lures can attract attention. On sunny days, metallic colors are effective, while on cloudy days, dark or fluorescent colors may work better.

To fish for ogac, a 6 to 7-foot rod with medium to heavy power and moderate action is ideal. A medium-sized open-faced reel loaded with 10 to 20 lb line works well. Use hooks sized 1/0 to 3/0 with fluorocarbon leaders for more stealth. Weights and jigs should be heavy enough to reach the depths where the ogac is often found.

Handle the ogac carefully, avoiding holding it by the gills or eyes. If you wish to release it, do so quickly to minimize stress. For a successful photo, hold the ogac horizontally and avoid keeping it out of the water for too long.

The ogac has few natural predators due to its northern habitat, but seals and some seabirds may consume it. Young ogacs are more vulnerable to predators such as larger fish and seabirds.

The ogac is not currently considered an endangered species in Quebec, but its population is monitored due to its restricted habitat and potential impacts from climate change. Fishing regulations may vary, so be sure to check local regulations before fishing. Catch and release is encouraged to preserve local populations.