Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
Distinguishing Markings:
Dark blue on top, brown-blue laterally with a silvery white underbelly; the upper jaw is elongated into a spear. The first dorsal is greatly enlarged in the form of a sail, with many black spots, its front squared off, highest at its midpoint;. Pelvic fins are very narrow, reaching almost to the anus; the body is covered with embedded scales, blunt at the end. The lateral line curves above the pectoral, then straight to the base of the tail.
Size:
Common to 7 feet, over 100 pounds
Distribution:
Ranges throughout the Atlantic and Caribbean.
Habitat:
Offshore, associated with waters near the Gulf Stream and the 100 foot line
Food Preference:
Feeds on the surface or at mid-depths on smaller pelagic fishes and squid
Spawning:
Unknown
Fishing Tips:
A rapid growing species, reaching 4 to 5 feet in a single year; swims at speeds up to 50 knots. Caught by trolling at or close to the surface.
