Sailfin poacher nigiri

Sailfin poacher (Hakkaku)

【Nigiri sushi: Shiromi】
Although the sailfin poacher (Hakkaku) is not very well known south of the Tohoku region, it is a popular sushi topping in Hokkaido. Originally, it was served as sushi only in Otaru. Because the male has particularly large fins, it is also called “Tokubire（Official Japanese name）,” while sushi restaurants refer to it as “Hakkaku” because of the shape of its cross section.

Despite its unusual appearance, it has fatty white flesh with a firm, crunchy texture. Its rich umami and sweet fat spread across the palate. While the flesh of most white fish is translucent, Hakkaku has a milky white appearance due to its high fat content. Males tend to be larger and fattier than females. However, its unusual shape results in a low yield.

Even within Hokkaido, supplies are limited. Many Hokkaido residents are familiar with the fish but have never actually eaten it. As a result, it is rarely found in sushi restaurants in Tokyo.

【Related contents】
List of White flesh fish (Shiromi)

（Posted October 24, 2026）