Atlantic Sailfish

Class : Osteichthyes
Order : Perciformes
Family : Istiophoridea
Species : Istiophorus albicans

Other common names: Sailfish

Maximum weight: 70kg (150lb)

Current all time I.G.F.A. record: 64kg (141lb 1oz) – Luanda, Angola – 19 February, 1994

Mandible: Straight

Pectoral fins: Fins will fold flat along body

Dorsal fin: Retractable

Identifying features: Upper body and sail dorsal spotted with dark and light blue spots. Lower body silver white. Dorsal fin is highest in the middle.

Expected temperature range: 70°F to 86°F (21°C to 30°C)

Migration and breeding:

Typical location: Open water around schools of ballyhoo, squid, mullet. Will come within close proximity to land if bait and warm currents are present. Over ocean mountains and canyons.

Fighting characteristics: Spectacular acrobat that can spend more time in the air than in the water when hooked. Exceptionally fast fish that generally does not fight deep. Prime gamefish for fly on light tackle.