It lies concealed on the bottom, waiting for an unsuspecting fish to pass close by. California scorpionfish migrate into deep water to spawn from June to August. Spawning occurs in the same place each year, in water 120 to 360 feet deep. In August, many of the fish move back into shallow water. Tagged fish have been found to migrate more than 25 miles.
Females produce eggs in Jello-like structures that float near the surface.
Adults feed on small fishes, octopuses, shrimps and crabs. The sharp spines on the scorpionfish's back are quite poisonous. The most effective way to stop pain inflicted by these spines is to soak the wound in hot water. The poison is still potent even if the fish is dead or frozen. California scorpionfish can live to be more than 20 years old.