FAQ / Why Is This Fish Called Chilean Sea Bass?

Chilean sea bass is actually two different closely related deep-water species also known as Patagonian toothfish and Antarctic toothfish, caught in Southern Ocean waters near and around Antarctica. The Chileans were the first to market toothfish commercially in the United States, earning it the name Chilean sea bass, although it is really not a bass and it is not always caught in Chilean waters. It is a different species type than the sea bass caught in U.S. waters. Because of its white meat appeal, Chilean sea bass usually fetches premium prices in specialty markets and high-end restaurants. It is a deep-water fish that can live up to 50 years and grow to weigh over 200 pounds.