Buffalo Sculpin
Enophrys bison
Also known as: Buffalo Sculpin
Size & Weight
Average Length
8.7"
Max Length
14.5"
Average Weight
0.8 lbs
Max Weight
2.0 lbs
Lifespan
8 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 65 ft
Water Temp
45-55°F
Shallow rocky areas; eelgrass; bays; tide pools
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring
Migration: Generally residential
Diet: Small fish; crustaceans; worms
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Rarely targeted; bycatch
Best Bait: Small baits
Eating Quality
Edibility
Poor
Spiny; rarely kept
Fun Facts
Large spines; hump behind head (buffalo); not eaten; often caught incidentally
How to Identify
Humpbacked appearance; mottled brown color; found rocky areas; rarely targeted
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; 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 | — | 8.7 |