Saltwater · Southern
Sculpin - Pacific Staghorn
Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.
Species group
SCULPIN
Season
Open all year.
Season notes
Open all year.
Depth limit
No Limit
Daily bag limit
No Limit
Minimum size
No Limit
Gear restrictions
Dip nets of any size and baited hoop nets not greater than 36 inches in diameter may be used to take Pacific staghorn sculpin. Hawaiian type throw nets may be used north of Point Conception to take such species.
Identification
Staghorn sculpins are slender fish, with a grayish olive above, pale creamy yellow sides, and a white belly. The first dorsal fin has 7 spines and usually a dark spot in the posterior half, while the second dorsal has 17 rays. The anal fin also has 17 rays, while the pelvic fins have four rays. The fins have barred patterns of varying prominence. They can reach a length of 46 cm.