California Skipjack is also known scientifically as Seriola dorsalis, the California Yellowtail is technically a member of the Jack family (Carangidae), not a tuna.
Appearance: They are long, streamlined fish with striking steel-blue to silver bodies, a distinct bronze/yellow stripe running along their lateral line, and a bright yellow tail.
Size: Standard catches in Southern California range from 10 to 25 pounds, though trophy "barn door" fish can exceed 40 pounds.
Habitat & Season: They are most commonly found in water temperatures of 60°F–72°F around kelp beds, rocky reefs, and offshore islands (such as the Channel Islands and Coronado Islands). They are available year-round, but peak fishing runs from May through October as they follow baitfish along the coast.
