Saltwater · Spring through fall; deepwater species year-round where open
Rockfish (Sebastes spp.)
Sebastes spp.
Dozens of species share one habit: structure. Rockfish are the reliable backbone of BC bottom fishing and perfect for new boat anglers.
Where they live
In this guide: Vancouver, BC · Victoria, BC · Campbell River, BC · Seattle, WA.
How to catch them
Jigging metal and soft plastics
Rig: 3-6 oz jig or leadhead with a 4-6" swimbait
Bait/lure: Swimbaits, shrimp flies
Key tip: Fish vertically over the rock pile; avoid long drifts that snag.
Baseline setup
- Rod: 7-8' medium-heavy rod
- Line: 40-50 lb braid
- Terminal: Jigs 3-6 oz, swimbaits, 40 lb leader
Recommended gear for this species
Rod · Best value
9' 5-weight fly rod outfit
≈ US$180-260
Covers chironomid lakes and small rivers with one setup.
Flies · Budget
Chironomid assortment (30 patterns)
≈ US$25-40
Chironomids are 60% of a lake rainbow's diet in spring.
Picks come from our rule library — never paid placements. Prices are guides; affiliate links may earn us a commission.
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