What Divers Should Know About
Rock Fish

As divers, you've likely heard the term "rockfish" mentioned, perhaps even pointed out a specimen by a guide. It’s important to understand that "rockfish" isn’t a single species, but rather a common, often arbitrary designation used for many different types of fish. This broad term covers numerous groups that are not necessarily closely related, encompassing a wide array of marine life.

The unifying characteristic, and indeed the origin of the name, refers to their tendency to hide among rocks. When exploring a reef, keep an eye on rocky crevices, overhangs, and ledges. You'll often find these fish, regardless of their specific family, nestled into these natural shelters. Their behavior of seeking refuge within the geological structure of the reef is what gives them their collective, if informal, identity to us and to others.