Blue Rockfish
Sebastes mystinus
Also known as: Blue Bass; Priestfish
Size & Weight
Average Length
12.6"
Max Length
21.0"
Average Weight
1.5 lbs
Max Weight
7.0 lbs
Lifespan
44 years
Habitat
Depth Range
60 - 300 ft
Water Temp
50-57°F
Rocky reefs; kelp canopy; semi-pelagic; often in schools
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring; live birth
Migration: Generally residential
Diet: Jellyfish; salps; algae; small crustaceans
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round with closures
Techniques: Jigging; fly lining; light tackle
Best Bait: Small jigs; cut bait; flies
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; white flesh
State Records
Washington
4.84
lbs
California
3.88
lbs
Fun Facts
Unusual diet includes jellyfish; often near surface in kelp canopy
How to Identify
Reddish-purple body; white mouth with white gum line; found near kelp canopy; feeds on jellyfish (unusual); semi-pelagic in schools
Commonly Confused With
Compare Side-by-SideOfficial Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; CDFW; 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 Depth Max Ft | 1800 | 300 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Depth Min Ft | — | 60 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 12.6 |