Black Seabass

A Rare & Remarkable Fish

California Black Sea Bass, more commonly known as Giant Sea Bass, is one of the largest bony fish native to California’s coastal waters. These magnificent creatures can grow to hundreds of pounds and live for more than 70 years.

With beautiful white flesh, a mild, delicate flavor, and a firm yet tender texture, Giant Sea Bass is wonderfully versatile in the kitchen. Its substantial fillets hold up beautifully to grilling, roasting, and pan-searing, while its naturally mild flavor pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs, citrus, garlic, and butter.

Understanding This Rare Catch

Giant Sea Bass have a complicated history in California’s fisheries. Once heavily fished, their populations declined dramatically, leading to protections beginning in 1981.

Today, Giant Sea Bass are a protected species in California, and commercial fishermen are prohibited from targeting them.

However, these large fish are occasionally caught unintentionally in commercial gill nets and trammel nets used to harvest other species, particularly California Halibut and White Seabass.

Under California law, commercial fishermen may retain and sell a maximum of one Giant Sea Bass per vessel when incidentally caught using these qualifying nets. Separate regulations apply to fish harvested in Mexican waters.

This limited allowance recognizes the reality of incidental catch, while maintaining protections for a species whose recovery remains important.

Our Philosophy at H&H

We understand that offering a protected species like Giant Sea Bass is a sensitive subject, and we believe it’s important to be transparent about how these fish occasionally enter the seafood market.

H&H does not target Giant Sea Bass, nor do we encourage a directed fishery for this protected species.

Our recent 120-pound Giant Sea Bass arrived through one of our Southern California seafood buyers. It is an exceptionally uncommon offering, and certainly not something we expect to carry regularly.

We recognize the importance of protecting these remarkable fish and supporting the continued recovery of their populations.

When a legally harvested fish like this enters the seafood supply, we believe in treating it with the utmost respect, appreciating its significance, and making thoughtful use of every portion.

For us, honoring the fish means understanding its story, respecting its place in the ocean, and ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

Cooking & Handling Suggestions

Giant Sea Bass has firm, moist white flesh that lends itself beautifully to simple preparations.

Our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Grilled: Brush with olive oil, season simply, and finish with fresh lemon.

• Pan-Seared: Sear until golden and finish with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs.

• Oven-Roasted: Roast with cherry tomatoes, white wine, and Mediterranean herbs.

• Fish Tacos: Season with citrus and spices, then serve with crunchy slaw and avocado crema.