The Pacific barracuda is usually found south of Point Conception but may range much farther north, especially during oceanic warm water events. It prefers the upper water layers, from the surface to a depth of 60 ft.
Distinguishing Characteristics
- Body very elongate, slender, and rounded.
- Mouth large with canine-looking teeth. Sharply pointed snout with projecting lower jaw.
- Grayish black with a bluish tinge on the back, becoming silvery or white on the sides and belly. Tail yellowish.
- Dorsal fins widely spaced.
- Females can display charcoal-black edge on pelvic and anal fins, while males can sometimes be distinguished with olive or yellow edge on pelvic and anal fins.
Life History & Other Notes
The Pacific barracuda preys mainly on anchovies and other small fishes.
The spawning season in Southern California may extend from April through September, but most spawning takes place in May, June, and July. An individual female probably spawns more than once each season. Young barracuda are usually found in shallow water close to shore.
Most Pacific barracuda are taken with live bait fished at or near the surface; however, they will take an assortment of artificial lures. Three-pound Pacific barracuda are common, but generally fish of this size are large enough to put up a good fight. Use caution when landing a Pacific barracuda to avoid their needle-sharp teeth.
Pacific Barracuda Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Sphyraena argentea
Other Common Names: California barracuda, snake
Range & Habitat: Statewide, but usually south of Point Conception
Length & Weight: To 5 ft. and 16 lb.
Life Span: To 18 years
Diet & suggested bait/lures: Feeds on anchovies and other small fishes. Try live bait such as anchovies or troll artificial lures
post based on an excerpt from the California Finfish and Shellfish Identification Book (2006), updated with information from Miller and Lea’s Guide to the Coastal Marine Fishes of California (2020), CDFW California Marine Species Portal (2022), and A re-evaluation of age, growth, and batch fecundity in California barracuda, Sphyraena argentea, from southern California based on specimens taken from 2000 to 2002 by D.J. Bottinelli and L.G. Allen, California Fish and Game Journal 93(4), Fall 2007.
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