Introduction
In the oceanic deep resides a colorful creature of the deep, known as the Redstripe Rockfish (Sebastes proriger). This member of the Scorpaenidae family is greatly appreciated by anglers and seafood enthusiasts.
Conservation Status
The Redstripe Rockfish is classified as ‘Least Concern’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List. Conservation efforts focus mainly on regulating fishing activities to ensure the sustainability of the population.
Statistics
| Category | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 35 cm | 20-50 cm |
| Weight | 1.2 kg | 0.5-2 kg |
| Lifespan | 50 years |
Distribution
The Redstripe Rockfish is native to the northeastern Pacific Ocean, from the Gulf of Alaska to central Baja California. They are non-migratory, staying mainly in their home ranges.
Habitats
Being a deep-water fish, the Redstripe Rockfish is typically found in saltwater, between depths of 30 and 400 meters. They can adequately adjust to a wide range of water temperatures.
When and Where to See
While no specific seasonal occurrences are noted, the Redstripe Rockfish can be commonly seen during the day, lying dormant on rocky reefs and underwater structures.
Best Fishing Locations
Prime locations for catching Redstripe Rockfish include:
- Shelikof Strait, Alaska
- Chignik, Alaska
- Bering Sea, Alaska
- Eastern Gulf of Alaska
- Johnstone Strait, British Columbia
- Queen Charlotte Sound, British Columbia
- Monterey Bay, California
- Half Moon Bay, California
- Santa Cruz, California
- San Diego, California
General Tips
Look for areas with rocky structures or in deep waters. Use a bottom fishing technique with strong fishing lines as these rockfish can put up quite a fight.
How to Catch
The preferred bait for these rockfish are squid, shrimp, or smaller fish like sardines or mackerels. Trolling close to the seafloor, using downriggers, can yield successful catches.
Identification Guide
The Redstripe Rockfish has a slender, elongated body with a spiny dorsal fin. They have a red-orange stripe running from the head to the tail, and the rest of the body is a deep, dusky red. This distinguishes them from their closely related cousins, the Yelloweye Rockfish which possess a yellow eye and are more orange in color.
Culinary
How to Cook
It is best to grill or pan sear these fish after marinating them in citrus-based marinades. The meat has a delicate, flaky texture which is cherished by many seafood enthusiasts.
Taste Profile
The flesh of the Redstripe Rockfish is mild and subtly sweet with a hint of nuttiness, leading to a unique, pleasant taste.
Additional Information
Being a relatively deep-dwelling species, the Redstripe Rockfish has a diet mainly composed of shrimps and krills, along with small fish. Predators include larger fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. Due to their attractive colors and unparalleled taste, these rockfish also face a significant threat from overfishing.
References and Further Reading
You can explore more about Redstripe Rockfish at these recommended sources:
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Pacific Fishery Management Council