Rubberlip Seaperch

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Fort Bragg, California south to Baja California. Found in kelp beds, rocky reefs, and rocky nearshore areas in 5–150 feet. The largest California surfperch species — named for its distinctive thick, rubbery lips. Found in the same rocky reef habitat as California Sheephead and Rockfish.

Preferred Water Temperature: 55°F–65°F. Found in deeper rocky areas and kelp bed environments along the California coast. A viviparous species that gives live birth like all surfperch.

Size & Weight: Typically 1–4 lbs and 14–18 inches. Maximum approximately 6 lbs. World record: 4 lbs 12 oz. The largest of California's surfperch — a powerful fish on light tackle. Good eating — mild, white meat.

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

Best Baits: Fresh mussels and clams are the top baits — matches their natural diet. Fresh shrimp produce good results. Sea worms are effective. Live small crabs work well. Light to medium tackle near rocky structure.

Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Fort Bragg, California south to Baja California. Found in kelp beds, rocky reefs, and rocky nearshore areas in 5–150 feet. The largest California surfperch species — named for its distinctive thick, rubbery lips. Found in the same rocky reef habitat as California Sheephead and Rockfish.

55°F–65°F. Found in deeper rocky areas and kelp bed environments along the California coast. A viviparous species that gives live birth like all surfperch.

Best Lures: Small jigs near rocky bottom produce strikes. Small swimbaits work around kelp edges. Best Baits: Fresh mussels and clams are the top baits — matches their natural diet. Fresh shrimp produce good results. Sea worms are effective. Live small crabs work well. Light to medium tackle near rocky structure.

Typically 1–4 lbs and 14–18 inches. Maximum approximately 6 lbs. World record: 4 lbs 12 oz. The largest of California's surfperch — a powerful fish on light tackle. Good eating — mild, white meat.

1 official record on file for Rubberlip Seaperch