Black Croaker

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Point Conception, California south to Baja California and throughout the Gulf of California. Found in rocky and sandy areas near kelp beds and rocky reefs in 10–150 feet. A distinctive Southern California species — the darkest of the California croakers with iridescent purple-black coloring.

Preferred Water Temperature: 58°F–70°F. Found in nearshore rocky and sandy areas of Southern California and Northern Baja. Makes audible croaking sounds by vibrating its swim bladder — particularly notable during spawning. Common in and around kelp forests.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 3 lbs. World record: 2 lbs. Distinctive iridescent purple-black coloring with an orange chin. Good table fish with mild, white meat.

Best Lures: Small jigs near rocky bottom produce catches. Small swimbaits work around kelp edges.

Best Baits: Fresh mussels are excellent. Ghost shrimp produce consistent results. Fresh squid works well. Small pieces of shrimp catch fish near structure. Light tackle with fresh bait near rocky or sandy bottom near kelp beds.

Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Point Conception, California south to Baja California and throughout the Gulf of California. Found in rocky and sandy areas near kelp beds and rocky reefs in 10–150 feet. A distinctive Southern California species — the darkest of the California croakers with iridescent purple-black coloring.

58°F–70°F. Found in nearshore rocky and sandy areas of Southern California and Northern Baja. Makes audible croaking sounds by vibrating its swim bladder — particularly notable during spawning. Common in and around kelp forests.

Best Lures: Small jigs near rocky bottom produce catches. Small swimbaits work around kelp edges. Best Baits: Fresh mussels are excellent. Ghost shrimp produce consistent results. Fresh squid works well. Small pieces of shrimp catch fish near structure. Light tackle with fresh bait near rocky or sandy bottom near kelp beds.

Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 3 lbs. World record: 2 lbs. Distinctive iridescent purple-black coloring with an orange chin. Good table fish with mild, white meat.