[3] Sebastes hopkinsi has a scaly body which is oval-shaped and which has a depth equivalent to around a third, or slightly more, of its standard length.

Its overall colour is tellowish brown or tan with indistinct saddle marks on the upper body and head.

Sometimes there is dark sideways chevron on their operculum to the rear of the eyes, however, this frequently fades after collection as the fish becomes a uniform colour.

An important identification feature is a dark line on the upper lip like a moustache.

[1] Sebastes hopkinsi is a diurnal, schooling fish which rests under cover at night.