Family Anarhichadidae - wolffishes
Wolffishes are bottom dwelling fishes inhabiting the cold waters of the North
Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The head of these fish is large with a mouth having
long canine teeth and powerful jaws. These fish are edible but should be handled
with caution when caught.
Wolf-eel- Anarrhichthys ocellatus
Remarks:A very seclusive
fish living within rocky structures. Seldom seen nor sought after by
sportfishers; although the meat is considered excellent. The jetties of the bay
would are prime habitat for these fish.
Identification: A
large squared head with powerful jaws and canine teeth followed by a long
tapering body make this fish unique. Body is gray with darker spots and light
rings to pale underneath; young may have an orange coloration above. Adults may
approach 2m in length.
Range: Found from the Aleutian
Islands to southern California. They live on or near the bottom normally in
subtidal rocky substrate to 226m.