Quillback Rockfish

Alternative Names: Quillback Sea Perch

Monterey Bay Recommendation: Quillback rockfish caught in British Columbia, Canada, with bottom longlines, jigs or trolls is a "Good Alternative." Other species that are highly vulnerable to overfishing are caught, and it's unknown if they are being overfished. The stock is considered threatened, but it's likely recovering. Management is considered moderately effective. Closed areas and gear modifications reduce the fishery's impacts on the seafloor, and policies are being developed to protect the ecosystem.

Uses in Cooking: This fish can be grilled, baked, deep fried, or broiled.

Similar Fish:  Copper rockfish, Rough eye rockfish, Trumpeter

Description: Quillback meat is firm and chewy, more like a scallop than a typical rockfish. It has a pleasant mild flavor that is moderately sweet. The flakes are large and hold together tightly.

Fun Facts: The quillback is named for the long venomous spines in its dorsal fin. These are not dangerous to humans but can stings be a little painful and prone to infections.