Species profile
Yellowtail
Seriola dorsalis
Identify Yellowtail (Seriola dorsalis) from a photo — free, unlimited, no sign-up — with the CatchRules iPhone app. Plus current fishing rules across 7 jurisdictions.
At a glance
Yellowtail (Seriola dorsalis) is a bony-fish species regulated in 7 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
Bag limits are uniform at 10 per angler across the 3 regulating jurisdictions.
Across 5 jurisdictions with stated minimum sizes, the average minimum is 14.9 in (≈ 1 ft 3 in).
Confirmed by 33 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in California.
Notable details
- California yellowtail can reach over 5 feet in length and exceed 80 pounds.
- Only recently recognized as a species distinct from yellowtail amberjack (Seriola lalandi).
- One of the most sought-after sport fish along the California and Baja California coastline.
- Feeds aggressively on anchovies, sardines, and squid near kelp beds and offshore islands.
- Known for powerful, drag-burning runs that challenge even experienced heavy-tackle anglers.
Where Yellowtail are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Yellowtail
Background
Seriola dorsalis, the California yellowtail is a species of ray-finned fish of the family Carangidae. This species is also known by several alternate names, such as yellowtail jack amberjack, forktail, mossback, white salmon and yellowtail tunis or tuna or by its Spanish name jurel. Although previously thought to belong to S. lalandi, recent genetic analysis distinguished California yellowtail…
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Yellowtail article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Yellowtail?
Yellowtail (Seriola dorsalis) is a bony-fish species regulated in 7 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
What is the scientific name for Yellowtail?
Yellowtail is Seriola dorsalis.
Is Yellowtail regulated for fishing?
Yes — Yellowtail has fishing regulations in 7 U.S. states and/or Canadian provinces tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Yellowtail?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules iPhone app — on-device identification recognizes Yellowtail along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.