Pile Perch
Rhacochilus vacca
Also known as: Piling Perch; Dusky Perch; Forktail Perch
Size & Weight
Average Length
10.5"
Max Length
17.5"
Average Weight
0.8 lbs
Max Weight
3.5 lbs
Lifespan
12 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 240 ft
Water Temp
50-60°F
Around pilings; docks; rocky structure; jetties; kelp beds
Behavior
Spawning Season
Fall-winter mating; birth spring-summer
Migration: Move into bays and around structure spring; more common around pilings
Diet: Hard-shelled mollusks; crustaceans; mussels; barnacles
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round; spring best for bays
Techniques: Pier fishing; jetty fishing
Best Bait: Mussels; shrimp; pile worms; small crabs
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; firm white flesh
State Records
Washington
3.57
lbs
Fun Facts
Strong jaws for crushing shells; often around pier pilings; forked tail distinctive
How to Identify
Vertical bars on body; found around pilings; prefer rocky/structural areas; give live birth
Commonly Confused With
Compare Side-by-SideOfficial Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; CDFW
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 | — | 10.5 |