Pacific Sailfish Fishing

Pacific Sailfish
(Istiophorus platypterus)

Current I.G.F.A. all time record: 100.24kg (221lb) - Santa Crus Is. Ecuador - 12 February, 1947

Description: Dark blue on top, brown-blue laterally, silvery white underbelly, upper jaw elongated in form of spear, first dorsal greatly enlarged in the form of a sail, with many black spots, its front squared off, highest at its midpoint, pelvic fins very narrow, reaching almost to the anus, body covered with imbedded scales, blunt at end, lateral line curved over pectoral, then straight to base of tail.

Other Common Names: Indo-Pacific Sailfish, Sailfish

Size: Common to 7 feet, Pacific sailfish are normally larger than those in the Atlantic.

Range: An offshore fish, in south Florida associated with waters near the Gulf Stream, off the Panhandle near the 100-fathom line.

Natural History: Rapid growing species, reaching 4 to 5 feet in a single year, swims at speeds up to 50 knots; feeds on the surface or at mid-depths on smaller pelagic fishes and squid.

Fighting Characteristics: Spectacular acrobat that can spend more time in the air than in the water when hooked. Exceptionally fast fish that generally does not fight deep. Prime gamefish for fly on light tackle.

Fishing Methods: Other Methods: Trolling dead ballyhoo is the most popular method. The ballyhoo can be rigged with a plastic squid (lure skirt) covering the head, as this aids the angler in tracking the trolling bait and adds to the longevity of the rigged fish. White or pink plastic squid are generally the most productive. Trolling small to medium lures or live baits around bait schools. Casting live baits to cruising Sailfish with spinning tackle is also an exciting method of capture. Teasing is becoming more popular and is a thrilling method when targeting Sailfish for all crew members.

Courtesy of Billfish Tackle Supply