Baja Fish Species

The Pacific waters of Baja California, Mexico, offer a remarkable variety of target fish species, from yellowtail and dorado to tuna and marlin, attracting anglers year-round. Rocky reefs and offshore banks provide habitats for grouper, snapper, and halibut, while pelagic species follow seasonal currents bringing exciting big-game opportunities. Amazingly , very few Pacific species off of Baja's waters can be eaten, one way or another. This diversity supports a vibrant sportfishing culture, with each region along the coast offering different peak seasons and species concentrations for anglers to explore

Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer)

A popular sport‑fishing species along Baja’s coast, especially in waters 60–90 ft deep, living on sandy bottoms. Recognizable by its vertical dark bars on a gray‑white body, it grows up to ~67 cm and often targets small fish and invertebrates. The barred sand bass is normally long and elongated and has a squarish tale. Their colors range from dark gray to greenish-gray on their backs, with vertical bars on their sides and a whitish belly. Their heads are characterized by small golden-brown spots, a protruding lower jaw, and a large mouth. They are sometimes referred to as grumps or grumpy because of the way their mouths look. The rest of their bodies are covered in dark splotches and small rough scales.

Kelp Bass (Calico or Bull Bass, Paralabrax clathratus)

Often caught from reefs and kelp beds off Baja in shallow to mid-depth water, prized for fighting ability and taste. It ranges south to southern Baja and is a favorite of recreational anglers . The upper part of the Kelp Bass’ head has pale yellow spots, whereas the body has black, white, and/or olive green marks. You can also find they have rows of rectangular white spots across their back. Their ventral areas are often cream or white. To help distinguish Kelp Bass from other marine bass is by their calico-like spotting on the underside of their belly.

Pacific Barracuda (Sphyraena argentea)

A sleek, fast predators reaching up to ~1.2 m, schooling in coastal waters from Baja northward, commonly caught by sport fishermen. Despite its sharp teeth, it's considered safe to eat and offers fierce fights when hooked. Pacific barracuda, also called California barracuda, are a schooling, coastal pelagic species. They are in the Sphyraenidae family, which encompasses 21 different species of mostly tropical Barracuda. One other species of Barracuda, the Mexican barracuda (Sphyraena ensis), has an overlapping range with the Pacific barracuda, but they have only been seen in southern California during warm water events Barracuda are easily identified, as they are long and skinny with pointy teeth and silvery sides sometimes with dusky bars.

Pacific Sierra (Sierra Mackerel) (Scomberomorus sierra)

A migratory mackerel abundant in Baja coastal waters, often taken by cast net or trolling by local and sport fishers. Known in Mexico as “sierra,” it's fast swimming and valued for both sport and food. The Pacific sierra, also known as Sierra Mackerel (Scomberomorus sierra), is a ray-finned bony fish found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It's a popular game fish and a commercially important species, known for its speed and fighting ability.

Key characteristics:

Appearance: Streamlined body, silver back and sides with dark spots, and a forked caudal fin.
Size: Can grow up to 3.67 feet long and weigh up to 18 pounds, according to Jurassic-Pedia.
Habitat: Coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, from southern California to Chile.
Diet: Primarily feeds on small fish like anchovies, clupeids, and other baitfish, says FishBase.
Behavior: Schooling fish, often found near the surface in coastal waters.
Fishing: Popular target for recreational anglers, known for their strong fight.
Culinary: Highly regarded for its mild, sweet flavor and flaky flesh, suitable for various dishes like ceviche.

Roosterfish (Nematistius pectoralis)

Highly prized game fish iconic for its long dorsal comb (“rooster comb”), averaging 20–50 lb, sometimes over 100 lb. Frequently caught from shore or by charter vessels along sandy beaches and rocky points in Baja The roosterfish is a unique species of marine carangiform fish found in the warmer shallow waters of the southeastern Pacific Ocean, from Baja California south to Peru. Roosterfish are a popular sport fish for being strong fighters.

Yellowtail Amberjack (Seriola lalandi dorsalis)

A powerful fighter that feeds around reefs and islands; among the most sought-after by anglers in Baja and the Sea of Cortez. Known locally as “yellowtail,” these can exceed 40 lb and are caught via trolling or bottom rigs. The Yellowtail Amberjack, scientifically known as Seriola lalandi dorsalis, is a prized game fish, also known by other names like "yellowtail" or "amberjack". It's a member of the Carangidae (jack) family and is known for its strong, fusiform body, forked yellow tail, and a yellow stripe along its side. These fish are found in the Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of California and Mexico, and are known for their migrations along the coastline.

Mahi‑Mahi (Dorado) (Coryphaena hippurus)

A brilliantly colored pelagic fish running close to shore near Baja, often found in schools and caught by trolling. Rapid growth and stunning coloration make it a favorite for both sport and fresh meals. Mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or Coryphaena hippurus, is a vibrant, fast-swimming fish found in tropical and warm temperate waters worldwide. They are known for their beautiful, iridescent colors and their ability to change color when excited. Mahi-mahi are popular among anglers for their fighting spirit when hooked and are also a prized catch for commercial fisheries.

Striped Marlin (Tetrapturus audax)

A top-tier billfish species hunted in Baja waters—prestigious in tournament fishing for its speed and size. Known to glow during coordinated hunts, they deliver intense battles when hooked with aerial acrobatics. This is a species of marlin found globally in tropical to temperate oceans not far from the surface. It is a desirable commercial and game fish, typically found 50 miles or more from shore in Baja. Some conservation measures are in place to restrict its commercial landings. An epipelagic predator, it hunts during the day in the top 100 metres (330 ft) or so of the water column, often near the surface. Caught by trolling lures, large live bait and even bait with kite fishing.

Blue‑Black Marlin / Sailfish (Makaira mazara / Istiophorus platypterus)

Present seasonally (blue/black marlin in warm months, sailfish year-round), offering trophy catches weighing hundreds of pounds. These are apex billfish frequently targeted by offshore charters in Baja. Less frequently seen in northern Baja they have been caught here, especially in very warm water seasons. The Blue Marlin (Makaira mazara) and Sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) are both large, pelagic fish species, belonging to the billfish family, and are known for their speed and size. Blue marlin are the largest of the billfish, while sailfish are known for their impressive dorsal fin, but smaller size. Both species are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide and are important to both commercial and sport fisheries. Typically, Marlin species are consumed as a smoked product rather than typical fresh table fare.

Mexican Barred Snapper (Barred Pargo, Hoplopagrus guentherii)

A reef-dwelling snapper native to Baja, caught by anglers fishing near rocky structures. Valued for its firm, tasty flesh and moderate size, it's a frequent catch the further south you go, on the Pacific side but also in the Sea of Cortez. . The Mexican Barred Snapper, one of the popular Snapper species, scientifically known as Hoplopagrus guentherii, is a species of snapper found in the Pacific Ocean, specifically along the coasts of Central and northern South America, from Mexico to Colombia. It is also known as Barred Pargo or Pargo Coconaco in Spanish. This fish is characterized by its deep, moderately compressed body, reddish-brown coloration with six alternating white bars on its sides, and an all-brown head with a white chin.

Ocean Whitefish (Caulolatilus princeps)

Common in deeper waters off Baja’s southern coast; frequently targeted commercially and recreationally using suspended‑bottom rigs. This species is often talk in the waters around the islands off of Ensenada. Its firm flesh makes it a prized food fish sold fresh or frozen in local markets. Inhabits rocky bottoms. Fillets have a bone in the middle that needs to be removed, and while fillets are relatively thin, they make great fish tacos or ceviche. Also found on soft sand and mud bottoms. Solitary species. Digs into the substrate for food

Pacific Porgy (Calamus brachysomus)

Found close to reefs and corals nearshore off Baja, often caught using bottom rigs baited with squid or fish chunks. Known locally as “mojarra,” it puts up a lively fight but may contain parasites in ~10% of specimens, so careful handling is advised. The Pacific Porgy, scientifically known as Calamus brachysomus, is a fish species found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. It's characterized by its silvery color, long pectoral fins, forked tail, and distinctive steep, straight profile of the forehead. These fish inhabit sandy bottoms and reef areas, typically at depths between 3 and 80 meters. Not typically targeted by Baja anglers, it is often caught while bottom fishing for other species.

Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares)

A highly prized game fish in Baja waters, often caught by trolling feathers or live bait near offshore banks; catches range from football size (~20 lb) up to trophy fish over 150 lb. Known for powerful runs and excellent sashimi quality, it appears seasonally from late summer into autumn. When you come home with Yellowfin Tuna, everyone is happy. Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) is a large, commercially important fish found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They are known for their bright yellow fins and a yellow stripe along their sides. Yellowfin tuna are a popular target for commercial fisheries and are also sought after by recreational anglers.

Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus)

Occasionally encountered off Baja but less common than yellowfin; highly regarded for its size and gourmet value. Sports anglers seek it during tuna season for serious battles and premium sushi-grade flesh. It is smply the best. Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is one of three bluefin tuna species, known for its large size and migratory behavior. They are found in the Pacific Ocean, with a range spanning from the Gulf of Alaska to Baja California. The Pacific bluefin is a commercially valuable species and several thousand tonnes are caught each year. It was considered overfished and subject to overfishing for decades, but catches were reduced in 2011 in order to rebuild the stock and a 2024 stock assessment determined that the species had rebuilt and was no longer overfished nor subject to overfishing. It is now considered a management success.

Skipjack Tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis)

Smaller but aggressive tuna species schooling by the coast; popular with sport anglers for fast-paced action. Often hooked while trolling or casting to surface schools, offering lively catches at 4–30 lb range. Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) is a highly migratory, epipelagic fish, abundant in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. It's a commercially important species, ranking third in global fish catches, and is a significant source of protein. Skipjack tuna are known for their streamlined body, dark purplish-blue backs, and silvery sides with dark stripes. They are typically found in surface waters during the day and may descend to depths of 260 meters at night.

Pacific Bonito (Sarda chiliensis)

A medium-sized bonito species schooling nearshore, weighing typically ~15–20 lb, caught by trolling feathers or casting lures from boats and piers. Valued for its fight and tasty flesh, though less sought after than tunas; previously heavily fished but now less targeted due to population declines. Pacific bonito (bonito) (Sarda chiliensis) are a temperate coastal pelagic schooling fish. They are a popular recreational as well as commercially caught species off the coast of southern California. Bonito are in the Scombridae family with other species of mackerels and tunas. They have a cigar shaped body with a pointed, conical head and a large mouth. Their color changes from dark blue above fading to silvery below, with a number of dark slanted stripes along their backs. They are easily identified, as they are the only tuna-like fishes on the California coast with slanted dark stripes on their backs. Eaten as sashimi on the spot, Bonito can be smoked and dried as in Japanese culture and used in a variety of oriental recipes.

Pacific Jack Mackerel (Trachurus symmetricus)

A schooling pelagic species found inshore and offshore, often taken commercially or by recreational anglers from boats and piers. Grows up to ~80 cm and commonly canned or used as bait; known for fast, energetic schooling behavior. The Pacific jack mackerel (Trachurus symmetricus), also known as the Californian jack mackerel or simply jack mackerel, is an abundant species of pelagic marine fish in the jack family, Carangidae. It is distributed along the western coast of North America, ranging from Alaska in the north to the Gulf of California in the south, inhabiting both offshore and inshore environments. The Pacific jack mackerel is a moderately large fish, growing to a maximum recorded length of 81 cm, although commonly seen below 55 cm. Pacific jack mackerel travel in large schools, ranging up to 600 miles offshore and to depths of 400 m, generally moving through the upper part of the water column. When the fishing has been slow it's often fun at the end of the day to do some light tackle fishing for Mackerel. Yes this oily fatty fish can be eaten, but like anchovies or sardines, some extra effort must be taken to make them palatable.

White Seabass (Atractoscion nobilis)

Big croaker species schooling over deep rocky bottoms and kelp beds from Magdalena Bay up to California; average legal size ~28 inches, with some specimens weighing up to 90 lb. Recreational anglers target them with live bait or jigs for their firm, mild-flavored flesh which is always welcome bounty from the ocean. White seabass, Atractoscion nobilis, is the largest croaker species in California waters. White seabass have an elongated body, large mouth, and a raised ridge along the length of its belly. Adults are bluish to gray dorsally with dark speckling and silver to white color ventrally. It has a black spot on the inner base of its pectoral fins. Young white seabass have several dark vertical bars on the side. White seabass have been recorded to 5.2 feet total length and 93 pounds; however, individuals larger than 60 lb (27 kg) are rarely observed

California Corbina (Menticirrhus undulatus)

Shallow water surf-zone croaker found on sandy beaches, often pursued by shore anglers using sand fleas or bait. Can reach ~28 inches and ~8.5 lb, prized for its light fight and delicate flavor, particularly in Baja surf fishing in the Sea of Cortez. California corbina (Menticirrhus undulatus) are a nearshore croaker species common to southern California sandy beaches and are quite popular among shore anglers. Their body shape is elongate and slightly compressed. They are uniformly grey in color with incandescent reflections and wavy diagonal lines on their sides. California corbina can be distinguished from yellowfin croaker (Umbrina roncador) by looking at the front of the anal fin; California corbina typically have one weak spine, while yellowfin croaker have two strong spines. Both California corbina and yellowfin croaker have a single barbel projecting from the chin, which helps distinguish these two species from the other croakers found in southern California’s coastal waters. Great as sashimi or in the griddle, these fish are prolific in the Sea of Cortez and targeted by commercial fishermen in San Felipe

California Halibut (Paralichthys californicus)

Flatfish inhabiting sandy bottoms from surf zones to ~300 feet depth, common from southern California into Baja California Sur. Anglers like them for bottom rigs with live bait—highly valued table fare, especially fresh and locally sold. The California halibut (Paralichthys californicus) is an important commercial fish that uses Upper Newport Bay as its spawning ground. Halibut and other fish such as turbot and sole are called flatfish because their bodies are flat and they have both eyes on the upper side, a unique adaptation to life on the seafloor. Halibut are not born flat, however. Rather, at a few months of age, the young go through a fascinating sequence of changes, taking on the adult form in a process believed to reflect the evolutionary development of the species.

Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri)

Pelagic speedster reaching speeds up to ~50 mph; typically caught offshore from Baja via fast trolling. Extremely aggressive fighter with delicious flesh, commonly caught along the Pacific side of the Baja peninsula in colder seasons (July–January). In warmer water years they range as far north as San Diego. An oceanic, epipelagic species frequently solitary or forming small loose aggregations rather than compact schools. Feed on fishes and squids.

African Pompano (Alectis ciliaris)

Large jack-like species that sometimes occurs offshore Baja; strong and acrobatic when hooked. Both sport and commercial fishermen value them for their fight and firm filet; occasionally taken trolling or near structure

Pacific Rockfish

is the most common near-shore fish on North America's West Coast. Bottom fishing - especially in the colder months sees anglers dropping a heavy weight to the bottom with three hooks and cut squid. Coming up from 200+ feet on the bottom, these fish are often targeted to help 'bring home the meat' when other types of fishing are slow. It's an excellent white-fleshed fish for quick and easy meals and is a favorite in Asian and American cuisines. There are several varieties of rockfish, and while they may taste slightly different from each other, all rockfish are firm, lean, and mild-flavored.

Pacific rockfish—also known as rock cod—is a very versatile fish. From fried to grilled to steamed and even raw, you have plenty of preparation options. It's fantastic in almost any fish recipe, and if you have a recipe that doesn't specify a type of fish, rockfish would be a great choice.

Rockfish are very common in the Pacific Ocean. More than 70 different varieties of this bass-like fish swim around the North American shorelines. They're also found down to depths of 300 feet or more. Depending on the species, rockfish can grow from two to five pounds but can also grow as large as 40 pounds. This fish has also been known to live up to 200 years.

Sculpin

The terms "scorpionfish" and "sculpin" are often used interchangeably, especially in the context of the California scorpionfish (Scorpaena guttata) which is commonly called sculpin by anglers in Southern California. While scorpionfish and sculpins are related, they belong to different families within the order Scorpaeniformes. The California scorpionfish, despite being called a sculpin, is not a true sculpin (family Cottidae), but rather a scorpionfish (family Scorpaenidae). They are highly desireable table fare, despite their venomous spines which can cause some serious discomfort when one is impaled. Experienced anglers handle them with a pair of pliers.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

California Scorpionfish (Scorpaena guttata):

Characteristics: Reddish-brown color, large head, venomous spines on dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins.

Habitat: Rocky reefs, kelp forests, and other hard bottoms from Alaska to Baja California.

Venom: The venom can cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms.

Recreational Fishing: Prized for its firm, white flesh and often caught with bait or lures.

Commonly called: Sculpin.
Family: Scorpaenidae (scorpionfish family).

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