Atlantic Cutlassfish are found in temperate and tropical zones in bays, estuaries and coastal waters as deep at 1,900 feet. They can be caught trolling, bast casting and with midwater longlines. The best for catching Atlantic Cutlassfish includes small shrimp, squid and cut bait.
Habitat: Ocean, Coastal Waters
How to identify Atlantic Cutlassfish
Atlantic cutlassfish have long, slender bodies that look similar to a ribbon, which is why they are often referred to as “Ribbonfish.” Their bodies are silvery blue and absent of scales. They have very large eyes and big mouths with teeth that look like fangs.
Where to catch Atlantic Cutlassfish
The Atlantic cutlass fish can be found in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, as well as the west Pacific and Caribbean Sea. A large concentration of Atlantic cutlassfish is present in the Gulf waters of Texas where they can be found inshore and in bays. Young fish are present from May-June along the coastline and central area of Texas, as a result of earlier spawning.
The following are habitats where you can catch Atlantic Cutlassfish:
How to catch Atlantic Cutlassfish
Because Atlantic cutlassfish are often used as baitfish to catch other fish species, anglers don’t typically seek them out. Anglers who target these fish often have success using bottom trawls and beach seines. Other methods that work well include using bag nets in estuaries, trolling, midwater longlines, and boat seines. They stick near the top of the water when feeding. Those who manage to catch one should handle them with care because they have very sharp teeth.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Atlantic Cutlassfish:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Atlantic Cutlassfish
Anglers interested in catching the Atlantic cutlassfish should use small bait or lures, including cut bait, shrimp and squid.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Atlantic Cutlassfish:
