Black Rockfish

The black rockfish, Sebastes melanops, is a marine fish found along the eastern Pacific coast, from Alaska to Baja California. Recognizable by its dark body with light grey mottling, it inhabits rocky reefs and open waters over deep banks. This species is popular in recreational fisheries and valued for its taste and fight.
Length~30 (max 63)
Weight~2 (max 5)
WaterSalt
Depth9-40 ft
- Other namesBlack seaperch, Black rock cod, Sea bass, Black snapper, Pacific Ocean perch
- Length~30 (max 63)
- Weight~2 (max 5)
- WaterSalt
- Depth9-40 ft
Popular lures for Black Rockfish
Regulation for Black Rockfish
- SeasonOpen from April 01 to September 15
- Bag limit10
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max sizeNo
- Min sizeNo
- Measurement-
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Found near rocky reefs in shallow waters and open waters over deep banks
- Juveniles are pelagic, while adults live both off and on the bottom
- Forms schools and feeds on fish and invertebrates
- Prefers temperate waters and depths usually up to moderate levels
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Viviparous, with females giving birth to live young
- Spawning occurs in winter, with planktonic larvae drifting with currents
- Juveniles settle in shallow, vegetated areas, moving to deeper waters as they grow
- Adults exhibit site fidelity, returning to specific areas annually for feeding and breeding