Big Skate
Beringraja binoculata
Also known as: Big Skate; Raja
Size & Weight
Average Length
43.2"
Max Length
72.0"
Average Weight
15.0 lbs
Max Weight
200.0 lbs
Lifespan
26 years
Habitat
Depth Range
10 - 2600 ft
Water Temp
42-52°F
Sandy/muddy bottoms; continental shelf; moderate to deep
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring (egg cases)
Migration: Some seasonal depth movement
Diet: Crabs; shrimp; fish; worms
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Bottom fishing; often bycatch
Best Bait: Cut bait; shrimp; fish
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Wings (called skate wings) - mild; firm
State Records
Washington
130.0
lbs
Fun Facts
Largest skate in PNW; lay egg cases (mermaid's purses); wings commercially harvested
How to Identify
Largest skate in PNW; diamond-shaped; lay egg cases (mermaid's purses); wings commercially harvested; two eye spots on back
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; NOAA
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 43.2 |