Pacific Sardine

Pacific sardines are found off the West Coast from Alaska to the Gulf of California, Baja California, Mexico. A 'coastal pelagic species' (along with anchovy and mackerel), they live primarily in pelagic, open ocean environments often in large schools of fish. Pacific sardines have blue-green backs, white flanks, and a series of spots along their midsections. They are small, reaching up to 16 inches in length with a lifespan of up to 13 years (though usually not more than 5 years). Pacific sardines feed on microscopic plants and animals (plankton). Common predators include larger fish, marine mammals and seabirds. 

Overall availability

Pacific sardine are fished year-round in California. They are available as fresh, frozen, and canned products.

Management

Pacific sardine are primarily fished using purse seine and other related (i.e., drum seine, dip net) gear. The fishery is managed under the Pacific Fishery Management Council with support from NOAA Fisheries. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife co-manages the fishery, implementing federal fishery management and state-specific measures.