Tiger Rockfish
Sebastes nigrocinctus
Also known as: Tiger; Banded Rockfish
Size & Weight
Average Length
14.4"
Max Length
24.0"
Average Weight
1.5 lbs
Max Weight
7.5 lbs
Lifespan
116 years
Habitat
Depth Range
100 - 1000 ft
Water Temp
45-52°F
Deep rocky reefs; caves; crevices; solitary
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter-spring; live birth
Migration: Highly residential; stay in caves/crevices
Diet: Shrimp; crabs; small fish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round with closures
Techniques: Deep dropping; heavy tackle
Best Bait: Jigs; cut bait; shrimp
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; firm white flesh
State Records
Washington
7.5
lbs
Fun Facts
Pink/red with dark bars (tiger stripes); very long-lived; solitary
How to Identify
Distinctive tiger-like stripes; reddish-orange body; found moderate depths; white mouth
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; 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 | — | 14.4 |