Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
A state link is a recorded source association, not a catch guarantee or confirmation that targeting is legal. Check current regulations with the responsible state agency.
- Peak months
- Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep · Oct · Nov
- Typical depth
- Typical size
- Up to 11 feet (220 pounds)
- Catch minimum
- National record
See state records · Browse all fishing records
Recorded profile
- habitat summary
- Offshore waters
- diet
- They feed aggressively on small fish and squid. eatly enlarged first dorsal fin that runs almost the length of its back and is covered with spots.
- preferred bait
- Blue runners, pinfish, mullet, scads, ballyhoo and squid attract cruising sailfish.
- preferred lures
- skirted trolling baits
- techniques
- Blue runners, pinfish, mullet, scads, ballyhoo and squid attract cruising sailfish. Sailfish are known for their fast runs, acrobatic jumps and head-shaking attempts to throw a hook. Sailfish tire easily and should be revived after a long fight to ensure their survival. Most anglers release these fish. The sailfish is Florida's state saltwater fish. Its name originates from the greatly enlarged first dorsal fin that runs almost the length of its back and is covered with spots.
- peak months
- Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep · Oct · Nov
States with a source record
Source evidence by state
- Florida — Sailfish · enriched: myfwc.com · myfwc.com · catchafloridamemory.com · www.floridasportsman.com · www.floridasportsman.com · www.floridasportsman.com · myfwc.com
- Hawaii — Indo-Pacific Sailfish · seed: dlnr.hawaii.gov · dlnr.hawaii.gov
- Texas — Sailfish · seed: tpwd.texas.gov · tpwd.texas.gov
LoveToFish is a national fishing guide. Fish species coverage spans all 50 states. Ramp, charter, bait shop, and creator directories currently cover Florida. Verify current local regulations with the responsible agency.