Pacific Sardine
Sardinops sagax
Also known as: Sardine; Pilchard
Size & Weight
Average Length
9.6"
Max Length
16.0"
Average Weight
0.3 lbs
Max Weight
1.5 lbs
Lifespan
14 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 500 ft
Water Temp
55-68°F
Coastal; schooling; surface to moderate depth
Behavior
Spawning Season
Year-round (varies)
Migration: Extensive migrations; follow plankton; highly mobile schools
Diet: Plankton; phytoplankton
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Variable; when present
Techniques: Sabiki rigs; cast nets; commercial purse seine
Best Bait: Tiny jigs; sabiki with small hooks
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Oily; excellent fresh grilled; popular bait
Fun Facts
Famous boom/bust cycles; Steinbeck's Cannery Row; important forage fish; populations crash and recover
How to Identify
Silver body; spot on shoulder; dark back; schooling pelagic fish; sardine canning history
Commonly Confused With
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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 Avg Length | — | 9.6 |