Brown Rockfish
Sebastes auriculatus
Also known as: Bolina; Chocolate Bass
Size & Weight
Average Length
13.2"
Max Length
22.0"
Average Weight
1.5 lbs
Max Weight
6.0 lbs
Lifespan
34 years
Habitat
Depth Range
60 - 300 ft
Water Temp
52-60°F
Rocky reefs; structure; around wrecks and debris; bays
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring; live birth
Migration: Generally residential; some move to shallower nursery areas
Diet: Fish; crustaceans; octopi
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round with closures
Techniques: Bottom fishing; jigging
Best Bait: Cut bait; squid; shrimp
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; white flesh
State Records
California
6.94
lbs
Fun Facts
Dark brown patch on gill cover diagnostic; tolerates lower salinity; found in bays
How to Identify
Dark brown with lighter patches; distinctive dark brown patch on gill cover; tolerates lower salinity; found in bays and estuaries
Commonly Confused With
Compare Side-by-Side
Official 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 | 420 | 300 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Depth Min Ft | — | 60 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 13.2 |