ODFW release – When releasing Quillback rockfish at sea, please use a descending device when releasing any rockfish outside of the 30-fathom regulatory line, as well as when a fish is suffering from barotrauma shoreward of the 30-fathom line. Signs of barotrauma include stomach in mouth, bulging eyes, and/or a tightness of the abdomen. Description: Quillback rockfish have deeply incised membranes on their long, strong and sharp dorsal fin spines. They have a dark posterior of slate-brown, and a lighter anterior shading of yellowish orange. It almost appears as though the back half of the fish was dipped into a dark dye substance. Cabezon are prohibited until July 1. Beginning July 1, anglers can retain a maximum of 1 cabezon per day that will count towards the 5 fish marine bag limit. Cabezon do not have a swim bladder, and therefore have a very high survival rate when anglers release the fish back to the sea promptly. There is no need to use a descending device on cabezon, as a cabezon is not a rockfish. Description: Cabezon are a large species of sculpin that live around kelp beds and rocky headlands. These large-headed fish are dark green to dark brown with smooth, scale-less skin. They have what is called a cirrus (flesh) above each eye and snout, and are covered with spines. For up-to-date fishing information, please see our sport fishing website: Marine Zone | Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (myodfw.com)
