Ranges from Kuskokwim Bay, the Pribilof Is., and Unalaska I. in the Aleutian chain to southeastern Alaska (Ref. 6793). Sometimes forms huge schools in Alaskan waters (Ref. 28499). Called 'Wachna' by local inhabitants, it used to be a highly regarded food fish (Ref. 11844). Observed in what appears to be an annual event, M. proximus can be found washed ashore in Arctic Alaska (Point Hope, and Shishmaref). This event occurs in mid to late fall, around the latter half of October and probably coincides with spawning, consistent enough that Inupiat people who live here count on gathering these fish on the beaches. It does not require a storm event to put these fish on the beach. Probably the fish come near to shore to spawn and when that happens, the seals are attracted and, herd or push the fish ashore (often times a few herring and small flounder are also pushed ashore along with the tomcod) (pers.comm. Jack Donachy 11/12). Also Ref. 6876, 6885, 11366, 27436.