Where Does Yellowtail Rockfish Live?

Yellowtail Rockfish lives in specific habitats. Knowing where to look helps you find and identify it.

Where to find Yellowtail Rockfish

Water type

saltwater

Depth

Typically found from the surface down to 550 meters (1,800 feet), but most commonly observed between 50 and 180 meters (165-600 feet).

Environment

Pelagic to demersal, often associated with rocky reefs, pinnacles, and kelp forests. Forms large schools in midwater over hard bottoms or near the surface. Juveniles may inhabit shallower waters and kelp beds.

Geographic range

Eastern North Pacific Ocean, from the Gulf of Alaska (specifically Kodiak Island) south to northern Baja California, Mexico. Most abundant from British Columbia to central California.

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