Species guide

How to catch Gopher rockfish

Sebastes carnatus

Stylized 2D illustration of Gopher rockfish
saltwatergame fishSebastidae

The gopher rockfish is a predatory saltwater fish commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. It has a fusiform body shape and can reach up to 39 cm in length. This species is popular among anglers for its fighting ability.

Where they live

Gopher rockfish inhabit rocky reefs and kelp forests at depths ranging from 9 to 55 meters along the Pacific coast of North America. They prefer saltwater environments with abundant cover.

Typical size

Up to about 39 cm

What they eat

  • small fish
  • crustaceans
  • macrofauna

Best baits

  • anchovies
  • squid strips
  • shrimp

Best lures

  • soft plastic jigs
  • bucktail jigs
  • small swimbaits

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • jigging
  • drift fishing

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How to catch Gopher rockfish | Bobbr