Yellowtail
Seriola lalandi
Also known as: Yellowtail Amberjack; Mossback; Forktail
Size & Weight
Average Length
60.0"
Max Length
100.0"
Average Weight
20.0 lbs
Max Weight
80.0 lbs
Lifespan
21 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 600 ft
Water Temp
64-75°F
Kelp beds; rocky structure; open water; warm water
Behavior
Spawning Season
Spring-summer (SoCal)
Migration: Migratory; follow warm water; kelp bed associated in SoCal; rare north
Diet: Fish; squid; crustaceans - aggressive predator
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Rare PNW; El Niño/warm years only
Techniques: Trolling; live bait; yo-yo jigging; fly fishing
Best Bait: Live sardines; mackerel; iron jigs; swimbaits
Eating Quality
Edibility
Excellent
Firm; mild; excellent sashimi; prized
State Records
Washington
20.5
lbs
California
63.06
lbs
Fun Facts
Powerful fighters; excellent eating; primarily SoCal species; follow warm water north occasionally
How to Identify
Powerful fighter; excellent eating; yellow tail fin distinctive; primarily SoCal; follow warm water north occasionally
Official Resources
Sources: CDFW
Change History (Last updated Feb 04, 2026 at 06:15 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 04, 2026 06:15 AM | Added image | — | species-88-0c6fa34a4e1e4f13.jpg | Source: iNaturalist |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 60.0 |