Cabezon
Scorpaenichthys marmoratus
Also known as: Cab; Marbled Sculpin; Great Sculpin
Size & Weight
Average Length
23.4"
Max Length
39.0"
Average Weight
4.0 lbs
Max Weight
25.0 lbs
Lifespan
17 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 250 ft
Water Temp
48-57°F
Rocky reefs; kelp forests; tide pools; jetties
Behavior
Spawning Season
Fall-winter spawning; males guard nest
Migration: Generally residential; territorial
Diet: Crabs; mollusks; fish; fish eggs
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round; some closures
Techniques: Bottom fishing; jigging; jetty fishing
Best Bait: Cut bait; crab; squid; shrimp
Eating Quality
Edibility
Excellent
Firm; sweet; excellent eating - ROE IS TOXIC
State Records
Washington
23.0
lbs
California
23.25
lbs
Fun Facts
Scaleless; ROE IS POISONOUS to humans (causes vomiting); excellent eating otherwise; males guard nests
How to Identify
Large head (cabezon = large head); scaleless smooth skin; color ranges brown-red-green with mottling; blue flesh turns white when cooked
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 Avg Length | — | 23.4 |