Trout and cod are both popular recreational sporting fish. Trout tends to have an edge in nutritional value over cod, while both have a similar taste. They come from different families and have distinctive physical appearances and habitat preferences.
In this article, you will learn about the nutritional differences and differences in taste between cod and trout. Additionally, we will review the physical differences and families each type of fish belongs to as well as which one is the better catch. This is the ultimate article for comparing trout fish vs. cod.
Cod vs. Trout – Nutrition
In a nutrition battle between cod and trout, trout seems the clear winner. Although trout contains more calories than cod, it has more protein, vitamins, and fat content. The fat in trout is mostly omega-3 fatty acids which are excellent for heart health. Trout also has more B12, B5, B6, riboflavin, folate, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, niacin, and thiamin than cod.
Cod has the advantage of being leaner than trout with fewer calories, cholesterol, and fat. The Cod also has a higher concentration of certain minerals like selenium and magnesium than trout.
Cod vs. Trout – Taste
Cod and trout are both white flaky fish that have mild flavors. Both of these fish are perfect for people who don’t like fishy tasting fish because trout and cod exhibit a light, non-fishy taste, and smell.
Trout has slightly more flavor because it has a higher amount of fate and tends to taste a little nutty. On the other hand, cod has a smooth buttery flavor and is much leaner than trout. Both fish taste excellent grilled, broiled, or baked.
Different Species and Different Looks
Trout and cod are both bony fish, but they come from two different families. Cod is part of the family Gadidae, while trout are part of the Salmonidae family. Cod are only found in saltwater, while most trout live in freshwater. Although there are sea-run trout that venture into tidal waters, but not in the open ocean.
Cod and trout may have the same “fish” shape, but they sport very different physical characteristics. Cod have multiple dorsal fins while trout have one dorsal fin and an adipose fin. Most cod are green to grayish in color with spots all over their bodies. On the other hand, trout vary in color from silverish to green to brown and usually only display spots above the lateral line.
Trout also has a classic rounded snout, while cod have a slightly pointier snout with a barbel dangling from the lower jaw.
Which Is the Better Catch?
Whether trout or cod is the better catch depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a more nutritious bang for your buck and enjoy being able to catch your dinner virtually anywhere in the U.S., trout is the way to go. If you’d rather stick to coastal waters and want a better shot at a larger catch, cod may be better.
Either way, they both taste great and are fun to catch!
You’ve read about trout fish vs. cod. Want to compare trout to other fish? Check out our article.
