SPEARFISH, SHORTBILL

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SPEARFISH, SHORTBILL

Scientific Name: 
Tetrapturus angustirostris
Fish Group: 
Billfish
Salt/Fresh: 
Salt
Also Known As: 
SHORTBILL SPEARFISH; Chuckers
Rating: 
Countries: 
Australia
New Zealand
Other Countries
Description: 

Shortbill Spearfish, is a species of marlin native to the Indian and Pacific oceans with occasional records from the Atlantic Ocean. This species occurs in open waters not far from the surface. This species can reach a length of 230 centimetres (91 in) TL though most do not exceed 190 centimetres (75 in). The maximum recorded weight for this species is 52 kilograms (115 lb).

How To Identify: 

A dark black band extends across the top of the fish with a silver-white colour below. The dorsal and ventral fins are almost black and the anal fins are white. The inner surfaces of the caudal and pectoral fins are black and the outer surface is white.

How To Catch: 

They feed at or near the surface, mainly on small and medium sized fishes and squids, including dolphin, sauries, flying fish, needlefish and pilot fish. They are available all year in small numbers. Fishing methods are the same as for other billfish, but with lighter tackle. Most are taken accidentally. 

Where Found: 

International

Is a species of marlin native to the Indian and Pacific oceans with occasional records from the Atlantic Ocean.

Australia

In Australia the species has only been found off Perth , Port Stephens and Adelaide. It is rarely seen in coastal waters.

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