Fish
Hexagrammos otakii ・ Hexagrammidae (Greenlings)
A northern rockfish that moves inshore to spawn in winter. In northern Japan it is a pier target; in the west it is scarce.
Unusual for having five lateral lines - one along the mid-flank and one at the base of each of the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins. Its scales are fine and its colour shifts from brown to reddish depending on where it lives. The similar Hexagrammos agrammus has only a single lateral line and a rounded tail, whereas this species has an angular one. Breeding males turn yellow and guard the egg mass.
The standard approach is anaduri, dropping a burakuri rig (a compact painted sinker fused to a short hook) into holes among rocks, tetrapods and breakwaters. Surf casting and soft plastics work too, and it pulls hard for its size.
It ranges more widely than the scorpionfish, so a little patience in the same hole is worth it. In northern Japan it is the mainstay of the winter pier.
Waters: Hokkaido & Sea of Okhotsk, Sea of Japan, Northern Pacific coast
It holds on isolated rock and weed edges within otherwise sandy ground, and often comes up while you are surf fishing for flounder.
Waters: Hokkaido & Sea of Okhotsk, Sea of Japan, Northern Pacific coast
Hole fishing kit ・ Kit total ¥12,000–28,000
The cheapest tackle but the most dangerous footing. Do not skip the studded boots or the life jacket, and never step on wet tetrapods.
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This fish is dangerous to handle bare-handed.
Sharp teeth
The teeth are fine but numerous and will graze a finger placed in the mouth. Always remove the hook with pliers.
Dangerous fish and animals — what to do when you are stung or bitten
Sashimi, simmered, or in a hotpot. A fat winter fish is rated among the very best of the rockfish.
Best eating: January–March, November, December
Some prefectures restrict the season or size to protect spawning fish. Check the rules where you are going.
Closed seasons and size limits — how to find the numbers, which differ by prefecture
This article organises general information and is not legal advice. Rules differ by municipality and by fishery cooperative, and they change. Always check the current rules for where you are going.