Blacksmith

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Monterey Bay, California south to Baja California. Found in and around kelp beds and rocky reefs in 5–150 feet. Forms large, shimmering schools in the water column above rocky reefs — a characteristic sight in Southern California and Channel Islands kelp forests.

Preferred Water Temperature: 55°F–68°F. A schooling mid-water species closely associated with kelp bed environments. Feeds primarily on zooplankton in the water column above rocky reefs. More of a visual and dive species than a targeted sport fish.

Size & Weight: Typically 8–12 inches and 0.25–0.5 lbs. Maximum approximately 1 lb. Blue-silver with black spots on posterior body. More commonly photographed by divers than targeted by anglers. Can be caught but typically bycatch.

Best Lures: Very small jigs and tiny spoons occasionally catch them. Micro jigs near rocky structure produce incidental catches.

Best Baits: Small pieces of shrimp or squid on tiny hooks produce catches. Not a primary target species — typically caught incidentally while fishing for other kelp bed species.