Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) are unique to the west coast of North America, with a range extending from Baja, California to the Shumagin Islands, Alaska.

Tagging studies have shown lingcod to be largely non-migratory, and it is thought that multiple stocks likely exist within British Columbia (Marko et al. 2006). However, stock delineation has not been clearly defined (Leaman and McFarlane 1997). Lingcod populations in British Columbia are assessed and managed as five separate units based on DFO Statistical Areas. These units include one inside stock in the Strait of Georgia (Area 4B) and the four outside stocks assessed here (King et al. 2011).

Outside lingcod populations in British Columbia are assessed and managed as four separate units based on DFO Statistical Areas: southwest Vancouver Island (Area 3C), northwest Vancouver Island (Area 3D), Queen Charlotte Sound (Areas 5A and 5B), and Hecate Strait and the west coast of Haida Gwaii (Areas 5C, 5D, and 5E) (King et al. 2011).