Canary Rockfish
Sebastes pinniger
Also known as: Orange Rockfish; Fantail
Size & Weight
Average Length
18.0"
Max Length
30.0"
Average Weight
2.5 lbs
Max Weight
14.0 lbs
Lifespan
84 years
Habitat
Depth Range
50 - 1200 ft
Water Temp
45-52°F
Rocky reefs; often over soft bottom near rocks; mid-water
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring; live birth
Migration: Some seasonal depth movements
Diet: Krill; small fish; jellyfish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round with closures
Techniques: Jigging; mid-water fishing
Best Bait: Shrimp flies; jigs; cut bait
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; white flesh
State Records
Washington
10.57
lbs
California
7.88
lbs
Fun Facts
Bright orange; often in schools; was severely overfished; recovering
How to Identify
Yellow-orange coloring with bright spots; found 150-900 feet; white mouth; excellent eating fish
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 Avg Length | — | 18.0 |