The white seabass (Atractoscion, nobilis) is a heavy bodied fish with bluish-gray above, dark speckling, and silver undersides. The species is closely related to the California corbina and other members of the croaker family. White seabass occur from Alaska southward to Baja California. They are usually found in areas of rocky bottom and around kelp beds.

The white seabass is the only Pacific member of the croaker family to exceed 20 pounds. The croaker family includes several Pacific species as well as Atlantic Coast fish such as black drum, redfish, weakfish, spot and croaker.

White sea bass are highly sought after by anglers of California and Baja, Mexico. The fish are typically targeted from the surf zone outward to shore kelp beds and rock formations. Excellent fishing often occurs no deeper than 30 feet.

Their size and strength demands quality equipment and a high level of skill. White sea bass are often caught with live baits, cut baits and a variety of artificial lures. Anglers using artificial lures employ several tactics. Many anglers prefer to fish for white sea bass by targeting their favorite structure, such as the edge of kelp or known areas of mixed rocky and sandy bottom. Some anglers cast metal jigs to entice these enormous fish.

Other anglers prefer to troll spoons or other lures along the same areas, attempting to cover a large area in search of fish. Once fish are caught, trollers may zero in on the fish and switch tactics or continue with the original tactic.

Anglers also use live baits to catch white sea bass. Among the top baits are live squid, Pacific mackerel, sardines and anchovies. Live bait fishermen drift, cast or slow troll baits along likely areas such as the edges of kelp beds.

White sea bass is prized as table fare. The white, firm meat is delicious grilled, broiled, blackened or baked.

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