Opaleye

The Opaleye is a marine fish known for its olive-green to bluish coloration and distinctive white spot near its dorsal fin. Found along the Pacific coast of North America, this species inhabits rocky reefs and kelp beds. It is a herbivore, feeding primarily on seaweed, and is popular among anglers for its strong fight.
Length~48 (max 66)
Weight~3 (max 6)
WaterSalt
Water Temp15-24° F
Depth1-32 ft
- Other namesOpaleye , Rudderfish
- Length~48 (max 66)
- Weight~3 (max 6)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp15-24° F
- Depth1-32 ft
Popular lures for Opaleye
Regulation for Opaleye
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Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Opaleye prefer rocky reefs and kelp beds in shallow coastal waters
- They are often found near the surf zone, where wave action stirs up food
- Their diet consists mainly of seaweed, but they also eat small invertebrates
- Juveniles tend to stay closer to the shore, often in tide pools
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Opaleye spawn in late spring and early summer, typically in shallow waters near rocky structures
- Eggs are adhesive and attach to substrates like rocks or seaweed
- Larvae remain in the planktonic stage before settling into juvenile habitats along the shore
- As they grow, they gradually move to deeper waters but often return to shallow areas to feed and spawn