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DIVISION OF FISH AND GAME 



HAKE 



Merluccius productus 



Relationship: The only member of the hake family, Merlucciidae, found on 

 our coast. 



Distinguishing Characters: The two separate dorsal fins, the first short and 

 composed of spines ; the long second dorsal and anal fins which are deeply notched 

 toward the tail ; the large mouth, the lower jaw protruding ; the lack of a barbel on the 

 lower jaw; the loosely-attached scales. Length to about three feet. Color: Metallic 

 blackish or silvery gray above shading to silvery below ; lining of mouth and opercles 

 black. 



Distribution: Alaska south and into the Gulf of California. 



Fishing Season: Not taken in suflficient quantity to show a seasonal trend. 



Importance: Of negligible commercial importance. Landed almost entirely in 

 Northern and Central California and sold fresh. Not liked by sportsmen. 



Fishing Gear: Trawl nets, hook and line. 



Unauthorized Names: Whitefish, haddock, butterfish, mellusa, melusette. 



