Ocean Sunfish

Oceans & Range: All tropical and temperate oceans worldwide — one of the most distinctive and unusual fish in the ocean. Common in California waters in summer — frequently seen basking on their sides at the surface, and a common sighting for offshore anglers targeting Albacore. Found from the surface to 2,600 feet.

Preferred Water Temperature: 55°F–75°F. Basks at the surface in warm water to thermoregulate after feeding in cold, deep water. Very commonly seen off California in summer — thousands of individuals inhabit the California Current system. Not targeted by sport anglers.

Size & Weight: The heaviest bony fish in the world — can weigh over 5,000 lbs and reach 14 feet fin-to-fin. Average individuals weigh 2,200 lbs. Not fished recreationally — protected in many jurisdictions. A remarkable sight when encountered — immediately recognizable by its flattened, disc-shaped body with no tail.

Best Lures: N/A — not a target species.

Best Baits: N/A — not a target species. The Ocean Sunfish is protected in many areas and should not be targeted or harassed. Enjoy the remarkable sight when encountered offshore.

All tropical and temperate oceans worldwide — one of the most distinctive and unusual fish in the ocean. Common in California waters in summer — frequently seen basking on their sides at the surface, and a common sighting for offshore anglers targeting Albacore. Found from the surface to 2,600 feet.

55°F–75°F. Basks at the surface in warm water to thermoregulate after feeding in cold, deep water. Very commonly seen off California in summer — thousands of individuals inhabit the California Current system. Not targeted by sport anglers.

Best Lures: N/A — not a target species. Best Baits: N/A — not a target species. The Ocean Sunfish is protected in many areas and should not be targeted or harassed. Enjoy the remarkable sight when encountered offshore.

The heaviest bony fish in the world — can weigh over 5,000 lbs and reach 14 feet fin-to-fin. Average individuals weigh 2,200 lbs. Not fished recreationally — protected in many jurisdictions. A remarkable sight when encountered — immediately recognizable by its flattened, disc-shaped body with no tail.

1 official record on file for Ocean Sunfish