Shortbill spearfish inhabit the waters of the Pacific an Indian Oceans. The best method for catching these fish is trolling with natural baits. These fish are rather large, averaging 35 pounds and reaching up to 100 pounds.
Habitat: Ocean
How to identify Shortbill Spearfish
Shortbill spearfish get their name because of their short bill, which extends slightly outward from their lower jaw. They have long, slim bodies with dark blue coloring on the top and silver/white on the sides and abdomen. Shortbills have tall dorsal fins with peaks that are taller than the length from the middle of its body to its tail. They have no markings on their dorsal fins, but they are browner in the back of the fins. These fins are almost as long as its body. They have white anal fins and white-tipped black caudal/peduncle fins. There are no markings on their sides. These fish can grow up to 8 feet long and average about 35 pounds, although some can get as big as 100 pounds.
Where to catch Shortbill Spearfish
These fish can be found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. A few shortbill spearfish have been caught just off the west coast of South Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, though they aren’t typically found there. These fish prefer warm, surface waters, and tend to stick to the open ocean.
The following are habitats where you can catch Shortbill Spearfish:
How to catch Shortbill Spearfish
Anglers often catch shortbills just offshore by using light tackle or trolling with natural baits. They are also often accidentally caught by anglers who are fishing for other types of fish. Other methods to try include using a deep-set or shallow-set long line with baited hooks attached to floating lines, or using a hook-and-line.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Shortbill Spearfish:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Shortbill Spearfish
Baits work best for catching shortbill spearfish, with the best choices being mullet, crustaceans, squid, tuna, and mackerel.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Shortbill Spearfish:
