Treefish
Range
Eastern Pacific Ocean — found from Central California to Baja California in 20–250 feet over shallow to moderate rocky reefs.
How to Catch Treefish
Equipment
45°F–58°F. A cold-water Pacific species found over rocky reefs and hard structure.
Technique
<strong>Position in the Water Column:</strong>
20–250 feet. A territorial bottom species found very close to specific rocky perches and crevices. Rarely ventures far from the bottom
Tackle & Bait
<strong>Best Lures:</strong>
Soft plastic swimbaits and shrimp imitations on leadhead jigs are the top producers. Vertical jigs worked near rocky bottom produce strikes. Dropper loop rigs with multiple hooks work efficiently.
<strong>Best Baits:</strong>
Fresh squid is the universal top bait for all rockfish. Fresh cut anchovy and sardine work well. High-low rigs with fresh squid or cut fish near rocky bottom are standard.
Game Qualities
Typically 1–3 lbs and 10–16 inches. Brilliant yellow and black vertical bands — one of the most visually striking of all Pacific rockfish. Also called 'Convict Fish'. Rockfish are among the longest-lived fish — many species live 50–100+ years. Always use a descending device to release rockfish caught from depth.
Taxonomy
| kingdom | Animalia |
| phylum | Chordata |
| class | Actinopterygii |
| order | Scorpaeniformes |
| family | Sebastidae |
| genus | Sebastes |
| species | Sebastes serriceps |
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