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DIVISION OF FISH AND GAME 



CALIFORNIA POMPANO 

 Palometa simillima 



Relationship: Not a true ponipano, but a member of the butterfish family, Stro- 

 mateidae, of which it is the only California species. The true pompanoes belong to the 

 jack family, Carangidae, which is represented in California by the yellowtail and the 

 jacii mackerel. 



Distinguishing Characters: The deep, thin body; the absence of ventral fins; 

 the long, low, dorsal and anal fins, of about the same length and shape. Length to 10 

 or 11 inches. Color: Dull green shading into bright silvery below, the whole fish gleam- 

 ing with iridescence. 



Distribution: British Columbia south at least to central Lower California. 



Fishing Season: Caught irregularly throughout the year. 



Importance: A minor species in terms of total catch, but is considered a delicacy 

 and brings a very high price. In 1946, Santa Cruz landings were slightly greater than 

 those at Los Angeles, though in previous years most of the catch was delivered at the 

 latter port. Sold entirely in the fresh fish markets. Sought by a few sportsmen. 



Fishing Gear: Small round haul nets. Sportsmen use very small hooks and 

 cut bait. 



Unauthorized Name: Butterfish. 



