This species travels in small groups along the surf zone in a few inches of water to depths of 20 meters (66 ft).

California corbina are uniformly grey in color with some iridescence and have an elongated and slightly compressed body shape in comparison to other croakers.

[2][3] Like all members of the genus Menticirrhus, the California corbina lacks a swim bladder but is able to produce a croaking sound.

[1] California corbina may be caught throughout the year, but fishing reaches its peak in summer and late fall.

[1] Due to the fact that California corbina live near shore, they are most often caught by fishermen on beaches, piers, and jetties; not on private boats or fishing vessels.

[1] The IUCN has assessed the California corbina as data deficient due to outstanding questions about the species' distribution.