Sailfish
Istiophorus Platypterus
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Quick Facts
Distribution
Interesting Info
- Sailfish are a migratory species preferring warmer tropical waters and can be found in depths up to 200 m (656 ft) hunting for food.
- They are a apex predator using their bill & sail to stun prey prior to swallowing them. Diet consists of baitfish, smaller tunas, squid, needlefish & mackerel.
- Sailfish are one of the fastest fish in the sea, reaching short burst speeds of 110 km/h (68 mph).
- The lifespan of Sailfish is estimated between 13 to 15 years.
- Juvenile fish grow very quickly weighing up to 2.7 kg (6 lbs) by the time they reach 6 months.
- They are a highly prized sports fish for anglers around the world.
- Main predators of Sailfish include sharks, larger predatory fish & anglers.
Species Interaction
Recreational Fishing
Sailfish are a highly targeted sports fish, known for their speed, leaping ability and overall strong fight. They are a highly migratory fish preferring waters temps between 21° to 28° C (70° and 83°F).
The Australian distribution of Sailfish circum-Australia, often found in coastal waters amongst islands and coral reefs.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Istiophoriformes
Family: Istiophoridae
Genus: Istiophorus
Species: Istiophorus platypterus
Conservation Status
Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Sailfish is currently categorised as “Least Concern”(LC).
LC is the lowest category on the scale for risk with “Extinct”(EX) being the highest.
Fish Taste Quality
Sailfish are an average table fish – known more for catch & release fishing.
Taste Rating: 3/5
How to catch
Sailfish
Catch Difficulty: Difficult
Tackle: Artificial Rig, Large circle hook rigged on leader with/without sinker with a crimp sleeve
Bait: Lures, Squid, Slimy Mackerel, Bonito, Tuna
Technique: Cast bait/jig/lure near schooling fish, Trolling
