Black Sea Bass
Centropristis striata
Regions
New England/Mid-AtlanticSoutheast
Protected status
None
Also known as
Sea bassBlackfishRock bassBlack bassTallywag
Species Profile
Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.
FWC
Size
Up to 24 inches (8 pounds); common to 12 inches (1.5 pounds)
Similar species
Other sea bass species Size: Up to 24 inches (8 pounds); common to 12 inches (1.5 pounds)
Appearance
- Body color dark brown or black
- Dorsal fin with stripes of white over black
- Large males have a fatty hump on head, in front of dorsal fin, as well as blue and ebony markings on body
- Females may have faint vertical bars
- Tail may have three lobes
- Adults have elongated ray on top part of tail
- Back edge of gill cover has a sharp spine
Habitat
Coastal waters near structure and rocky bottoms. Smaller specimens are often found inshore in finger channels.
Behavior
Spawn January through March and are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning older females becoming breeding males. Omnivorous bottom feeders, and their diet includes small fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.
Additional information
State Record:Recreational RegulationsSee a full list of our Social Media accountsSubscribe:AboutThe CommissionCommission MeetingsWildlife AlertCalendar of EventsOutlook E-mailLimited English Proficiency PlanOffice of Supplier DevelopmentAmericans with DisabilitiesEEO/AAPrivacy StatementSitemap2025 Agency Regulatory Plan
Seafood Profile
Powered by NOAA FishWatch data. Availability and detail varies by species.
NOAA FishWatch
Population
The stocks are not overfished.
Fishing rate
Not subject to overfishing.
Bycatch
Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch.
Taste
Mild, fresh, somewhat delicate flavor.
Texture
Tender but firm.
Color
Uncooked meat should be sparkling white and translucent. The meat is snow white when cooked.
Health benefits
Black sea bass is a good low-fat source of protein and magnesium.
Sources
Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady