Cutting out the dark strip of meat in the center of tuna steaks will also reduce strong, oily flavors. Although all tuna should be handled carefully, the quality of fattier species is likely to deteriorate faster than that of leaner species. For best results, use fresh or frozen tuna as soon as possible. The striped bass or rockfish, a popular sportfish since colonial times, has been the subject of much controversy and environmental concern. It is an anadromous fish it lives its adult life in salt water but returns to fresh water to spawn.
Young bass remain in estuarine waters for two years after birth.
For this reason striped bass are particularly susceptible to contamination from polluted fresh and inshore waters. Because of declining populations and the potential for contamination, recreational striped bass fishing is likely to be subject to changing management and conservation plans. Check local laws and advisories before fishing for striped bass and eating your catch. Striped bass have a shiny silver color characterized by dark stripes that run the length of their bodies. These fish can grow to be quite large, but as the populations decline the average size is generally between five and ten pounds.