Staghorn Sculpin
Leptocottus armatus
Also known as: Bullhead; Pacific Staghorn Sculpin
Size & Weight
Average Length
10.8"
Max Length
18.0"
Average Weight
1.2 lbs
Max Weight
1.5 lbs
Lifespan
8 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 300 ft
Water Temp
45-58°F
Bays; estuaries; sandy/muddy bottoms; shallow; tolerates low salinity
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring
Migration: Some movement; tolerates brackish water
Diet: Shrimp; crabs; worms; small fish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Often bycatch; pier fishing; bay fishing
Best Bait: Worms; shrimp
Eating Quality
Edibility
Poor
Small; spiny; rarely kept
State Records
Washington
0.8
lbs
Fun Facts
Antler-like spines; tolerates fresh/brackish water; common bait stealer; not eaten
How to Identify
Prominent horn-like spines on head (staghorn); brown mottled color; found rocky areas
Commonly Confused With
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Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; 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 | — | 10.8 |