Also known as rock bass or rockfish.
- Body color dark brown or black
- Dorsal fin with stripes of white over black
- Large males have a fatty hump on head, in front of dorsal fin, as well as blue and ebony markings on body
- Females may have faint vertical bars
- Tail may have three lobes
- Adults have elongated ray on top part of tail
- Back edge of gill cover has a sharp spine
Similar Species: Other sea bass species
Size: Up to 24 inches (8 pounds); common to 12 inches (1.5 pounds)
Habitat & Range
Coastal waters near structure and rocky bottoms. Smaller specimens are often found inshore in finger channels.
Life History
Spawn January through March and are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning older females becoming breeding males. Omnivorous bottom feeders, and their diet includes small fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.
Frequently Asked Questions
State Record
5 lb, 1 oz, caught near Panama City.
