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Grass Rockfish

Species Identification

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Grass Rockfish

Sebastes rastrelliger

Also known as: Grass Bass

Rockfish Native Stable

Size & Weight

Average Length 13.2"
Max Length 22.0"
Average Weight 0.5 lbs
Max Weight 5.5 lbs
Lifespan 23 years

Habitat

Depth Range 60 - 300 ft
Water Temp 55-62°F

Shallow rocky reefs; tide pools; eelgrass; kelp; intertidal

Behavior

Spawning Season Winter-spring; live birth

Migration: Generally residential; shallow water

Diet: Crabs; shrimp; small fish; mollusks

Fishing Tips

PNW Season Year-round
View season chart →

Techniques: Shore fishing; shallow jigging; tide pool

Best Bait: Cut bait; shrimp; small crabs

Eating Quality

Edibility Good

Mild; white flesh

State Records

California
6.44
lbs

Fun Facts

One of shallowest-dwelling rockfish; found in tide pools; mottled green/brown

How to Identify

Greenish body with brown patches; found shallow rocky areas; small species; territorial

Official Resources

Sources: 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 150 300
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM Updated Depth Min Ft 60
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM Updated Avg Length 13.2

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