Apnaut

California sheephead

Semicossyphus pulcher

California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher)

Photo: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.5

Depthbetween 5 and 30 m
Habitatrocky bottoms
DifficultyMedium

The California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher) is one of the species that spearfishers and freedivers log in Apnaut. It usually frequents rocky bottoms and is found between 5 and 30 m, so it pays to adjust your search depth. It is curious, it approaches the diver, which shapes how to approach it.

It takes some technique and knowing its behaviour. In Apnaut you have its minimum legal size across 1 different zones. Always check your area's current regulations before taking it.

Behaviour: curious, it approaches the diver.

Minimum legal size by zone

ZoneMinimum size
California12" (30 cm)

Where to catch it

Other names

Vieja de California (es)

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum legal size for California sheephead?

It depends on the area. For example, California: 12" (30 cm). See the full size-by-zone table above.

At what depth is California sheephead found?

Usually between 5 and 30 m, mostly over rocky bottoms.

Is it hard to spearfish on a single breath?

Its difficulty is “medium”. It is also curious, it approaches the diver. In Apnaut you can log your catches and their size.

Log it in Apnaut

Add this species to your collection, log your catches with their size and check the legal minimum for your area, all from your phone.

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