California scorpionfish Fishing

Scorpaena guttata

5.9-16 inch
1.1-4.4 lb

California Scorpionfish, also called sculpin, live on rocky bottoms off the Pacific coast. Camouflaged with mottled red and brown, they ambush shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Venomous spines deter predators and pose risks to anglers. Despite this, they are valued for their firm, tasty flesh when handled carefully.