Finfish Species. Oregon sport and commercial fishermen commonly catch over 25 different species of rockfish. At least 13 additional species occur off Oregon that are infrequently caught. Many of these rockfish have similar characteristics and are difficult to tell apart.

Rockfish are some of the most colorful and diverse fish in Alaskan waters, and are prized by both commercial and recreational fishermen. They are also among the oldest fish on earth, with some species living over years. Growing slowly and reproducing late in a long life is an evolutionary strategy that helped rockfish survive environmental changes over thousands of years. It also makes them more vulnerable to overfishing. Careful management based on accurate scientific information is key to keeping Alaska rockfish populations healthy. Currently, 33 species of rockfish are recognized in Alaska waters.

Note : Please consult current fishing regulations for species presented in this booklet. Click to view larger image. Description: The body of the green sturgeon is long, roughly cylindrical and has five rows of bony plates on its back.

NOAA Fisheries assessment scientists are responsible for determining the current status of commercial and recreationally caught fish species in the waters of Alaska from miles off shore or in federal waters. Assessment scientists are responsible for determining the current status, whether a fish stock is healthy, overfished or overfishing is occurring, for 54 fish stocks in the federal waters of Alaska i. Other NOAA Fisheries scientists conduct regular research surveys and provide the data used to prepare these assessments. The assessment involves updating information on population trends i.