Red Irish Lord
Hemilepidotus hemilepidotus
Also known as: Red Irish Lord
Size & Weight
Average Length
12.0"
Max Length
20.0"
Average Weight
0.8 lbs
Max Weight
5.0 lbs
Lifespan
11 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 160 ft
Water Temp
42-52°F
Rocky reefs; kelp forests; tide pools to moderate depth
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring spawning
Migration: Generally residential
Diet: Crabs; mussels; barnacles; small fish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Often bycatch; bottom fishing
Best Bait: Cut bait
Eating Quality
Edibility
Poor
Rarely eaten; spiny; small yield
State Records
Washington
3.19
lbs
Fun Facts
Colorful red/brown mottling; common around jetties; males guard eggs; not typically eaten
How to Identify
Red to orange body; spiny appearance; found shallow rocky areas; rarely targeted
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; 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 | — | 12.0 |