Other names: Spotted scorpionfish
The California scorpionfish, Scorpaena guttata, is a bottom-dwelling marine fish found from central California to Baja California. Recognizable by its mottled red-brown color and venomous spines, it inhabits rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. This species is valued in both commercial and recreational fisheries.
Other names
Spotted scorpionfish
Length
~17" (max 47)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
20--° F
Depth
26-183 ft
Anchovy
Mackerel
Mussels
River2Sea Live Squid
SquidAlways open
5
10"
Total Length
Inhabits rocky areas and sandy bottoms in bays and along the shore
Can often be found in underwater caves
Feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates
Often found hiding in crevices or among rocks
Spawns in the spring and summer months
Eggs are buoyant and hatch into planktonic larvae
Juveniles settle in shallow waters before moving to deeper habitats as they mature
Adults return to specific spawning grounds annually.
