Shortbill Spearfish
Tetrapterus Angustirostris
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Quick Facts
Distribution
Interesting Info
- Shortbill Spearfish are a migratory species preferring tropical and temperate waters and can be found in depths down to 1,830 m (6,003 ft) but are usually found in depths of 350 m (1,148 ft) or less.
- They are a apex predator using their bill to stun, injure or kill prey prior to swallowing them. Diet consists of baitfish, squid & crustaceans.
- Female spearfish are slightly larger than males.
- The Shortbill Spearfish spawn during winter months in warmer offshore currents, the fish larvae are pelagic.
- These spearfish mature at around the age of 2 and have a average lifespan of 3 years. The maximum age is estimated at 4 to 5 years.
- They are a targeted sports fish for anglers around the world.
- Main predators of spearfish include sharks, larger predatory fish when they are younger & anglers.
Species Interaction
Recreational Fishing
Shortbill Spearfish are a popular sports fish with minimal to no commercial importance in Australia. They are highly regarded in Japan for sashimi and fish cakes.
The Australian distribution of Shortbill Spearfish are throughout the country except for the Northern Territory.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Istiophoriformes
Family: Istiophoridae
Genus: Tetrapturus
Species: Tetrapturus angustirostris
Conservation Status
Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Shortbill Spearfish is categorised as “Data Deficient” as there is not enough information on the species for proper assessment.
How to catch
Shortbill Spearfish
Catch Difficulty: Moderate
Tackle: Artificial lure, Circle hook rig
Bait: Hard-body lures, Pilchards, Slimy mackerel, Bonito, Tuna strips
Technique: Troll lures or bait, Retrieve lures quickly
Popularity: Commonly targeted
