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Sailfish are the most common billfish caught off the coast of South Africa and Mozambique.The sailfish is a streamlined, elongated fish that is built for speed. It has a long, spear like snout that is used for slashing at, and stunning prey. It has a famous extended dorsal fin or sail that is often seen when it is sunning its self near the surface. Colour It is often regarded as one of the most beautiful fish in all the oceans. Its metallic-blue body and its cobalt-blue sail dotted with black markings enhance the elegant lines on the sailfish's side. On some there are a number of lighter or grey, vertical bars on the flanks. The beautiful colours fade quickly after the fish dies, thankfully most sport fisherman prefer to release this amazing creature of the deep blue. Size Can attain 300 cm and a weight of up to 70 kg. Habitat This pelagic fish is generally found near landmasses, but is also known to travel great distances. Though most are observed near the surface over the continental shelf, sailfish have been recorded to depths of 160 meters. Many are found singularly, but loose shoals of 3 to 30 individuals may form in some regions, making double and triple strikes with this species not uncommon. Abundance It is the most common billfish in Southern African waters, but seasonal fluctuations in numbers do occur in some areas. This makes local knowledge of fishing destinations very valuable in targeting this species. Angling Tourette Fishing specializes in targeting the sailfish off fishing ski's. These fish are targeted on the edge of reefs or on prominent pinnacles using strip or live bait. The best live bait being small bonito or mackerel. Sailfish are also targeted from boats with fly tackle, often using large streamers or poppers. As with all other species, emphasis is on the fight and after landing the fish, a quick photo is taken, then the fish is tagged and released. Fish taken out are those that can not be resuscitated due to exhaustion. |